Shea Simmons
If you can’t go to the Kentucky Derby this year, why not bring the derby to you? That’s what the minds at Churchill Downs have cooked up with a Derby-inspired menu you can make at home!
David Danielson, the track’s executive chef, is hosting virtual cooking classes in honor of the annual race, which will be held May 1 this year. Churchill Downs released a selection of menu options (and wine pairings) curated by Danielson so you can create your own Derby spread.
Menu options include Grit Fritters with Pimento Cheese and Green Goddess Dipping Sauce, Black-Eyed Pea and Corn Salsa, and even an ice cream sundae with a bourbon caramel sauce.
Each meal includes a full ingredient list and directions from Danielson, but you can also find him on YouTube teaching virtual cooking classes. While there isn’t a class for every menu item, you can learn how to make Chicken Nuggets with Kentuckyaki Glaze and Pulled Pork Sliders with Peach and Vidalia Onion Chutney (see below).
But what is the Kentucky Derby without a cocktail? In addition to the virtual cooking courses, you can also learn how to make the perfect Mint Julep and Woodford Reserve Spire with Tim Knittel, bourbon ambassador, in his mixology course.
If you want to plan a Derby watch party, you might need a few more recipes, though. How about some no-oven appetizers?
