Imagine taking a stroll down the cobblestone streets of Savannah, Georgia, on a warm summer night. The air is filled with the sweet scents of blooming flowers, and the sound of live music drifts through the air. As you walk, your stomach starts to rumble, and you realize it’s time to treat your taste buds to something special. Look no further than the best of Savannah dining!
First up, we have a dish that is sure to transport your taste buds to an elevated state of bliss: Mrs. Wilkes’ Fried Chicken. This dish has been a staple in Savannah since 1943, and for good reason! The secret to this dish is in the perfect seasoning blend that coats the juicy chicken, making every bite both crispy and tender. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a family feast, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Combine flour, salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and garlic powder in a large bowl.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom.
3. Dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Place chicken pieces in the hot oil, skin-side down, and fry until golden brown, about 12-15 minutes per side.
5. Drain chicken on a wire rack and serve hot.
Next up is a hearty dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in: Shrimp and Grits. This classic dish is a staple in southern cuisine and is made with plump shrimp, creamy grits, and a spicy and savory sauce. It’s a dish that is full of depth and flavor that is sure to warm your heart (and stomachs).
Ingredients:
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup quick-cooking grits
– 2 cups chicken stock
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 green bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken stock
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring chicken stock, milk, and salt to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Slowly whisk in grits and reduce heat to low, stirring often, until thickened, about 15-20 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add flour and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Slowly add chicken stock, whisking constantly until smooth.
6. Add heavy cream and hot sauce and cook until sauce has thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
7. Add shrimp to the sauce and cook until pink and opaque.
8. Serve the shrimp and sauce over the hot grits.
When you find yourself in Savannah, there is no shortage of fantastic dining options, but few compare to these two Southern staples. Both dishes are sure to delight your senses, and with the right company, they might just make for a night you’ll never forget.