The Perfect Derby Party

Tomorrow is Kentucky Derby Day and that means parties.Even though it's only twenty four hours away you can still throw a fun and tasty day to celebrate the first leg of the Triple Crown.It's also great way of tasting some traditional Kentucky foods too. They range the gamut from  rustic  to elegant,reflecting the dichotomy of the state.

Burgoo is the state dish  and this tasty stew is a variation of the traditional Brunswick stew (although it could also be a cousin of bouef bourguinon hence the name). It is a mix of different meats,with beef,chuck, pork and lamb and chickenbeing the preferred ingredients. It is an easy dish, not unlike chili to make and perfect for a crowd. Serve it with homemade biscuits to sop up the gravy.Another party food is the Hot Brown sandwich named for Louisville's famed Brown Hotel. This consists of turkey, tomato and bacon with a cheesy kind of bechamel sauce poured over it . There is also the benedictine , a delicate green tinted cucumber and onion tea sandwich.It's mixing cream cheese with the cukes and onions to create an  interesting nibble while watching the race.

Of course no Derby party would be complete without mint juleps. These libations are fun to drink and easy to create.. All you need is good Kentucky bourbon, a simple syrup and fresh picked (or bought ) spearmint leaves. Heat up granulated sugar and water in a sauce pan. While you're doing this bathe the leaves in the bourbon and then mix.Mint juleps should be served in a specially designed silver julep  cups but you can also serve in glass tumblers too. For a more festive and also larger crowd think about serving a bourbon punch.This is a heady mix of the state's liquor , brandy and benedictine, tempered by orange and lemon juices and seltzer.

Tomorrow is Derby Day.Celebrate it  with traditional Bluegrass State foods and drinks. You'll feel like you're there, if not physically then certainly in flavor!