A Cozy Tennessee Thanksgiving: Southern Recipes to Savor

As we approach Thanksgiving, there's nothing like adding a little Southern warmth to your holiday feast.

Whether you’re relaxing in a charming tiny home at The Retreat or gathering around the table with loved ones, the flavors of Tennessee can elevate your Thanksgiving celebration. This year, we’re sharing three delicious and cozy recipes straight from the heart of Tennessee to make your holiday extra special. These dishes embody Southern hospitality, featuring comforting flavors and local ingredients that will surely impress your guests.

Southern Pecan Pie: A Sweet Slice of Tennessee

When it comes to Southern desserts, few things compare to the rich, nutty sweetness of pecan pie. This Tennessee favorite is a perfect way to end your Thanksgiving meal on a high note.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup corn syrup
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ cups pecan halves
• 1 unbaked pie crust

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust, and arrange the pecans on top.
4. Bake for 60-70 minutes, until the pie is golden and set.

Serve this rich and flavorful pie to your guests, and they'll experience the essence of Southern comfort right at your table.

Cornbread Dressing: A Savory Southern Tradition

No Tennessee Thanksgiving is complete without a hearty helping of cornbread dressing. This dish brings together crumbled cornbread, savory herbs, and a Southern touch to complement your turkey or ham.

Ingredients:

• 8 cups crumbled cornbread
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons sage
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the celery and onion in butter until softened.
2. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, sautéed veggies, sage, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken broth and stir to mix.
4. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.

This savory side is a perfect pairing for any Thanksgiving main dish, delivering a comforting taste of Tennessee.

Sweet Tea & Bourbon Glazed Ham: A True Southern Delight

Take your holiday feast to the next level with this unique take on glazed ham. Featuring the bold flavors of sweet tea and Tennessee bourbon, this dish will have everyone at the table coming back for more.

Ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked ham (6-8 lbs)
• 1 cup brewed sweet tea
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Tennessee bourbon
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. In a saucepan, combine the sweet tea, brown sugar, bourbon, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze.
3. Brush the glaze over the ham, basting every 30 minutes.
4. Roast the ham for 2-3 hours until the glaze is caramelized and the ham is heated through.

This ham brings together the best of Southern flavors and is sure to be the highlight of your Thanksgiving table.

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