Kentucky Derby

Celebrate the Kentucky Derby~

For more than 135 years, the Kentucky Derby has been the perfect occasion to extend Bluegrass hospitality. Although the Derby is held in Louisville, the spotlight shines on the whole state. Everyone in the state celebrates on race day, the first Saturday in May. The Derby is more than a horse race; it's a social event. The celebration starts with brunch and extends throughout the day, and continues over the week-end. If you're lucky enough to be seated in the upper levels of Churchill Downs, you're expected to show up in your finest duds. Some women's hats cost as much as the dresses they wear.

Louisville, Kentucky is situated on the banks of the Ohio River. Louisville is known for its Kentucky bourbon and country ham. Another indigenous culinary delight is known as the Hot Brown. A sandwich of chicken, bacon, or ham topped with a cheese sauce. This sandwich was first served at the Brown Hotel in the late 1920's. The Derby Pie, is a rich chocolate chip pecan pie that's actually trademarked in Kentucky. The Kentucky Derby, held at Churchill Downs, is known as the fastest two minutes in sports. The Derby is the first leg of the Triple Crown of thoroughbred racing.

Last Year on T2T~Kentucky Derby

The Mint Julep~

No Derby gathering is complete without mint juleps made with of course, Kentucky bourbon. To mix this sweet liquor concoction, combine equal parts sugar and water, and heat until the sugar is dissolved. Some bar masters pour the simple syrup (sugar-water mixture) over fresh mint leaves and let the syrup mixture chill for several hours. At serving time, strain the syrup, put a few fresh mint leaves in the bottom of a silver Derby cup or commemorative glass, and fill with crushed ice. Pour in a little mint syrup, a little water, and fill the glass with bourbon. More fresh mint garnishes the top.

Derby Pie~

Fit pie crust into a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate according to package directions; fold edges under, and crimp. Sprinkle chocolate chips and pecans 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 one-fourth hot mixture into egg mixture; add to remaining hot mixture, whisking constantly. Pour filling into prepared pie crust.

Bake at 325 for 1 hour or until set. Cool on wire rack. Serve with whipped cream:)

Recipe and images of mint julep and derby pie: My Recipes