It's almost May and that can only mean one thing - time again for the Kentucky Derby,
horse racing's premier event...
...but the Kentucky Derby is not just about horse racing, it's about the magic that makes
the first Saturday in May unique in sports, fashion and style. People from all over come together in Louisville, Kentucky to honor Southern traditions. Don't worry if you can't
make it all the way to Churchill Downs, you can still enjoy the high-society spirit of the
Run for the Roses right at home.
So dawn your Derby hat and get inspired!
The following (3) inspiration boards were featured on Hostess with the Mostess and more
information about Kentucky Derby Party ideas and original recipes from Bobby Flay
can be found on HWTM blog.
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You can find these and other traditional Derby hats at WomenXone
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How adorable are these lucky ladies who were able to actually attend the Kentucky Derby in '09? My friend, Lindsay of Toast Signature Celebrations, was kind enough to share these fun and festive pictures from her real life experience! They are the epitome of high society style!
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The following photos and recipes courtesy of Southern Living Magazine
adapted from Basic Taste
Chocolate Burbon Pecan Pie, also known as a Derby Pie
This recipe takes a pecan pie and adds intense chocolate and burbon flavor. It's quick and fairly easy to make. Use store bought pie crust to make it even easier.
Ingredients:
1/2 (15-ounce) package refrigerated piecrusts
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate morsels
1 cup dark corn syrup
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/4 cup bourbon or water
4 large eggs
1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
2 teaspoons cornmeal
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate morsels
1 cup dark corn syrup
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/4 cup bourbon or water
4 large eggs
1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
2 teaspoons cornmeal
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions:
Fit pie crust into a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate according to package directions; fold edges under, and crimp. Sprinkle pecans and chocolate evenly onto bottom of pie crust; set aside.
Combine corn syrup and next 3 ingredients in a large saucepan, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Whisk together eggs and next 4 ingredients. Gradually whisk about one-fourth hot mixture into egg mixture; add to remaining hot mixture, whisking constantly. Pour filling into prepared pie crust. Bake at 325° for 55 minutes or until set, cool on wire rack.
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The Kentucky Derby Signature Drink is the Classic Mint Julep
Ingredients:
5 fresh mint leaves
1 tablespoon simple syrup or mint simple syrup
Crushed ice
1 1/2 to 2 TBS or 1 ounce of bourbon
1 (4-inch) cocktail straw
1 fresh mint sprig
Powdered sugar (optional)
Directions:
Place mint leaves and Simple Syrup in a chilled julep cup. Gently press leaves against cup with back of spoon to release flavors. Pack cup tightly with crushed ice, pour bourbon over ice. Insert straw, place mint sprig directly next to straw, and serve immediately. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.
