Aretha Franklin was not only an icon in the world of music, but she was also an incredible cook. Her love for food and cooking was noticeable in her soulful music, and she shared some of her favorite recipes throughout her lifetime. In this article, we’ll delve into 17 of Aretha Franklin’s favorite foods that you can try in 2021.
1. Chicken and Dumplings –
Hailing from the southern part of the United States, chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food dish. Aretha’s recipe included tender chunks of chicken in a creamy and flavorful broth, alongside soft and pillowy dumplings.
2. Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze –
For a mouth-watering main course that’s perfect for special occasions, follow Aretha’s recipe for baked ham with a brown sugar glaze. The ham is tender and juicy, with a sweet and slightly sticky glaze that’s sure to impress your guests.
3. Meatloaf –
Meatloaf can be tricky to get right, but Aretha’s recipe hits all the right notes. It’s moist and flavorful, with a crispy crust on the outside. Be sure to use a mixture of ground beef, pork, and veal for the best results.
4. Fried Chicken –
Fried chicken is a southern staple and Aretha’s recipe is simple and sure to impress. The chicken is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for a weekend dinner with the family.
5. Sweet Potato Pie –
With its creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor, sweet potato pie is a dessert favorite in the southern US. Aretha’s recipe includes a buttery crust and a filling that’s rich, smooth, and infused with cinnamon and nutmeg.
6. Fried Corn –
Fried corn is a side dish that’s popular throughout the southern US, and it’s an excellent accompaniment to almost any meal. Aretha’s recipe includes fresh corn kernels sautéed in butter, salt, and pepper until golden and crispy.
7. Collard Greens –
Collard greens are a staple in soul food cooking, and Aretha’s recipe is simple yet full of flavor. The greens are steamed until tender, then sautéed in bacon fat with onions and garlic for a savory twist.
8. Black-Eyed Peas –
Black-eyed peas are a southern tradition, often served on New Year’s Day for good luck. Aretha’s recipe includes a rich and flavorful broth, simmered with meat scraps and served over fluffy rice.
9. Macaroni and Cheese –
A classic comfort food, macaroni and cheese is a favorite of both kids and adults. Aretha’s recipe includes a creamy, cheesy sauce with just the right amount of tang, baked until golden and bubbly.
10. Cornbread –
Cornbread is a staple in southern cooking, and Aretha’s recipe yields a tender, moist bread with a slightly sweet flavor. Serve it warm with a dollop of butter for the ultimate comfort food.
11. Green Beans –
Green beans are the perfect side dish for any meal, and Aretha’s recipe is full of flavor. The beans are simmered in a rich broth with bacon, onions, and garlic until tender and infused with flavor.
12. Pound Cake –
Pound cake is a classic dessert that’s simple to make but always delicious. Aretha’s recipe includes simple ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, yielding a tender and flavorful cake with a moist crumb.
13. BBQ Ribs –
If you’re looking for a finger-licking good meal, try Aretha’s recipe for BBQ ribs. The ribs are seasoned with a flavorful rub, then slow-cooked until tender and smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce.
14. Corn Chowder –
Corn chowder is a creamy and hearty soup that’s perfect for cool fall evenings. Aretha’s recipe includes fresh corn kernels, potatoes, and smoky bacon for a rich and comforting flavor.
15. Peach Cobbler –
Peach cobbler is a classic southern dessert, and Aretha’s recipe includes juicy peaches baked in a buttery crust with a sweet, cinnamon-spiced filling. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort food.
16. Red Beans and Rice –
Red beans and rice is a popular dish in the southern US, and Aretha’s recipe is full of flavor. The beans are simmered with sausage and spices until tender, then served over fluffy white rice for a hearty and comforting meal.
17. Fried Okra –
Fried okra is a southern favorite, and Aretha’s recipe yields tender, crispy pods that are full of flavor. Serve them as a side dish or a crunchy snack.
In conclusion, Aretha Franklin was a legendary musician and a talented cook, and her favorite recipes are worth trying in 2021. From crispy fried chicken to creamy sweet potato pie, these dishes are full of flavor and comfort, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
