Callie's Biscuits and Southern Traditions

October 14, 2013
This charming volume by the co-founder (with her mother, Callie) of Charleston-based Callie's Biscuits is a breath of fresh air in the cookbook world. Its friendly voice, interesting tips, and unique focus make it a worthwhile addition to southern cookbooks. It begins with a recipe for Callie's Classic Buttermilk Biscuits, and offers variations such as "Black Pepper Biscuits," "Mom's Cinnamon Stickies," and "Southern Shortcakes." From there, the author launches into a series of mouthwatering family recipes rich with Southern flavor: "Pimento Cheese Shrimp and Grits," "Springtime Succotash with Bacon," "Vegetable Gratin," "Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with Vinegar-Based BBQ Sauce," and "Summer Corn Salad." Then there are the desserts, from "Mama's Sour Cream Banana Pudding" to "Drunk and Toasty Myers Pecan Pie"âthey're not healthy, but they are definitely treats. And the final chapter on entertaining, with menus for themed events, including a Sit-Down Holiday Dinner, a kids' play date, is downright inspiring.