Southern Food Staples

By Amy Cabaniss with Julep’s New Southern Cuisine

For Southern-inspired weddings, cuisine can play a major role. Southern food is good for the soul. From deviled eggs to biscuits and gravy, who says your favorite Southern staples can’t make an appearance on your big day? Here are a few favorites to include in your wedding’s catering, regardless if you’re doing a seated meal or buffet style!

Deviled eggs
This southern picnic staple can easily be customized to match you and your sweetheart’s personality. Try adding jalapeno or Sriracha for an added kick, or adding crab or bacon for unique flavors.

Greens, greens, and more greens
Think collard greens, mustard greens, green beans… the vegetarians attending your wedding will thank you!

Fried foods
While not everyone loves fried foods, they can be considered essential in Southern culture. Think of expected dishes like fried green tomatoes, fried chicken, and hush puppies. Serve them with a homemade special sauce, maybe delectable spicy honey or a delicious jalapeno ranch.

Shrimp and grits
Seafood can sometimes lead to higher food prices but paired with grits, this turns out to be a very cost-effective option. Make it your own by introducing Cajun seasoning or stirring in gourmet cheese like white cheddar. The advantage to this staple is that less is more…the ingredients deliver bold, delicious flavors!

Barbeque
It doesn’t have to be a backyard cookout to include BBQ as the main meat entree. Provide a variety of sauces (including Carolina style, traditional BBQ, and mustard sauce) and let guests customize their flavor profiles. This is especially great for caterers or couples whose families are helping with food
as this can be a “set it and forget it” crockpot meal.

Biscuits and gravy
Sure, this is typically a breakfast food, but why not serve this during your reception? Kick it up a notch with a homemade buttermilk biscuit or add sausage (or mushrooms for vegetarians!) to the gravy.

Pie
While cake is more traditional, pie can be an unexpected hit with your guests! Consider the time of year that your wedding will take place when choosing flavors, like an apple in the fall, or a strawberry in the spring.

All the sides
The best part about Southern-style cuisine is the sides! Add your own flair to sharp white cheddar macaroni and cheese. Or get Grandma’s recipe for baked beans, an easy prep! Maybe include a sweet and savory corn pudding served with sweet corn griddle cakes. Anything that is a family “secret recipe” is a safe bet!

Hungry yet? When it comes to your wedding, serve your guests food you LOVE! Trust us, they’ll leave full, satisfied, and happy you got married in a region with such delicious cuisine!

Julep’s New Southern Cuisine is one of Richmond’s top upscale restaurants, offering quality service, creative and seasonal cocktails made with local ingredients, and Southern dishes inspired by Atlanta, Charleston, New Orleans, and Savannah cuisine. Julep’s is great for private parties, celebrations and rehearsal dinners. Visit juleps.net for more info!

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