Southern Inspired: More Than 100 Delicious Dishes from My American Table to Yours

Jernard Wells, a Mississippi-born chef, restaurateur, and TV host, has created a cookbook called Southern Inspired that celebrates the bold flavors of Southern cuisine while incorporating influences from around the world. The book features 100 approachable recipes for busy weekdays, backyard barbecues, dinner parties, and holiday feasts, including Blackened Catfish with Smoked Gouda Grits, Sweet Tea-Brined Fried Chicken, and Creamy Collard Green Dip.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2022
Publisher: BenBella Books

After growing up in the deep south of Mississippi, Jernard Wells embarked on a culinary journey that would take him from a humble chef to a renowned restaurateur and TV host. With his cookbook, Southern Inspired, Wells continues his exploration of the rich culinary traditions of the South, tracing the footsteps of generations of African American cooks who have shaped the global culinary landscape since the days of slavery.

Southern food, as a culinary expression, holds a significant place in the broader spectrum of American cuisine. However, Wells takes it to a whole new level, infusing it with his unique Southern flair while still honoring its roots. He seamlessly incorporates flavors from various regions, including the Caribbean, Latin America, Asia, and Europe, always maintaining that distinctive Southern touch.

In this cookbook, Wells shares a collection of 100 approachable recipes that cater to both novice and seasoned cooks. From busy weekdays to backyard barbecues, leisurely dinner parties, indulgent brunches, and festive holiday feasts, Southern Inspired offers a diverse range of dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.

Among the mouthwatering recipes featured in Southern Inspired are:

Blackened Catfish with Smoked Gouda Grits: A bold and flavorful twist on a classic Southern dish, featuring succulent catfish coated in a blackened seasoning and served with creamy smoked gouda grits.

Sweet Tea-Brined Fried Chicken: Tender and juicy chicken pieces brined in sweet tea, then fried to perfection and drizzled with a sweet and tangy glaze.

Oxtails and Bowties: Tender oxtails simmered in a rich broth until fall-off-the-bone tender, served with buttery bowties and a medley of vegetables.

Creamy Collard Green Dip and Crostini: A creamy and velvety collard green dip served with crispy crostini, perfect for dipping and snacking.

Over-the-Top Lime BBQ Shrimp Tacos: Spicy shrimp tacos topped with a tangy lime BBQ sauce, fresh cilantro, and diced avocado, wrapped in soft tortillas.

One-Pot Vegetable Caribbean Noodles: A hearty and flavorful dish featuring a medley of vegetables, coconut milk, and aromatic spices, simmered in a single pot and served with rice.

Cast-Iron Skillet Creamed Corn: Sweet and creamy corn cooked in a cast-iron skillet, topped with crispy bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.

Fried Green Tomatillos: Fried green tomatillos seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, served with a creamy lime dipping sauce.

Chicken Cheeseburger Eggrolls: Crispy eggrolls filled with juicy chicken, cheese, and a blend of vegetables, rolled in a crispy breading and served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Georgia Peach Hot Chicken Sandwiches: Tender and juicy chicken breasts grilled and served on toasted bread with a peach-based hot sauce, topped with crispy bacon and fresh lettuce.

Cranberry Whiskey Glazed Pork Ribs: Tender pork ribs glazed with a sweet and tangy cranberry whiskey sauce, served with a side of roasted vegetables.

BBQ Shrimp and Grits: Spicy shrimp cooked in a smoky BBQ sauce, served with creamy grits and a medley of sautéed vegetables.

Granny Gwens Banana Pudding: A classic Southern dessert featuring layers of vanilla wafers, bananas, and a rich custard, topped with caramel sauce and whipped cream.

Mason Jar Raspberry Chocolate Trifles: A decadent dessert in mason jars, featuring layers of chocolate mousse, raspberry jam, and whipped cream, topped with fresh raspberries.

Accompanied by stunning color photography, Southern Inspired showcases Wells' American cuisine: fresh, personal recipes packed with traditions and heartwarming family stories from an African American chef's perspective.

Whether you're a fan of Southern cuisine or are simply looking to explore new flavors, Southern Inspired is a must-have cookbook that will transport you to the heart of the South and inspire your culinary adventures. So, grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to savor the bold and delicious flavors of the South like never before.

Weight: 560g
Dimension: 177 x 227 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781637741504