6. Shrimp and Grits
Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that can leave newcomers scratching their heads. The combination of creamy, buttery grits topped with succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich sauce is both comforting and unexpected. Some may wonder, “Is this breakfast or dinner?” The answer is both; this dish transcends traditional meal times, making it a versatile option for Sunday suppers.
To make this dish, you’ll need to prepare the grits first, cooking them until they are smooth and creamy. While the grits simmer, sauté fresh shrimp with garlic, lemon juice, and a dash of hot sauce to create a flavor-packed topping. Serve the shrimp over the grits, and you’ll have a dish that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.
7. Chicken and Waffles
This intriguing combination of fried chicken and fluffy waffles is a true Southern staple that often perplexes outsiders. The sweet and savory harmony of crispy chicken atop a warm, syrup-drizzled waffle can seem odd at first, but it’s a match made in culinary heaven.
For a Sunday supper that will leave everyone satisfied, prepare homemade waffles using a light batter. Fry up some seasoned chicken thighs until golden brown, and serve them on top of the waffles with a generous pour of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream. This dish is sure to become a favorite, even if it initially raises some eyebrows.
8. Collard Greens and Cornbread
Collard greens, a staple green in Southern cuisine, often mystify those unfamiliar with Southern traditions. These leafy greens are simmered with spices and often a bit of meat for flavor, creating a dish that is both nutritious and hearty. Pairing this with cornbread adds sweetness and texture, making for a well-rounded meal.
To prepare collard greens, wash and chop the greens, then sauté them with onions and garlic before simmering with chicken broth. Serve alongside a warm, buttery cornbread that is easy to make from scratch. The combination is not only delicious but also rich in Southern history, showcasing the resourcefulness of Southern cooks.
9. Frogmore Stew
Frogmore stew is a Lowcountry boil that can leave many puzzled. This one-pot dish features shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes, all boiled together with a mixture of spices. The name might raise eyebrows, but the flavors will win everyone over.
To make Frogmore stew, start by boiling water with Old Bay seasoning. Add potatoes and sausage, cooking until tender. Then, toss in the corn and shrimp, cooking until the shrimp turns pink. Serve it all on a large table covered with newspaper for a fun, communal dining experience.
10. Hoppin’ John
This dish, traditionally served on New Year’s Day to bring good luck, is a mix of black-eyed peas, rice, and sometimes pork. While it might seem like an odd combination to those not familiar, it’s a staple on many Southern tables, especially on Sundays.
To prepare, cook the black-eyed peas until tender, then mix them with cooked rice, onions, and bell peppers. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of hot sauce for flavor. This comforting dish is not only filling but also steeped in Southern tradition.
11. Biscuits and Gravy
The Southern breakfast favorite of biscuits and gravy can raise some eyebrows when served at dinner. Fluffy biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy may seem like an odd choice for a supper, but it’s a beloved dish that many Southern families enjoy any time of day.
To create this dish, bake homemade biscuits until they are golden brown. For the gravy, cook sausage in a skillet, then stir in flour and milk to create a thick, savory sauce. Pour the gravy over the biscuits and serve, allowing the warmth and richness to comfort everyone at the table.
12. Jambalaya
Jambalaya is a vibrant dish that often confuses those unfamiliar with Cajun and Creole cuisine. This one-pot meal of rice, meat, and vegetables is packed with flavor and can vary widely in ingredients, leading to endless variations. Some might wonder, “What’s the difference between jambalaya and paella?”
To make jambalaya, start by sautéing onions, bell peppers, and celery in a large pot. Add your choice of proteins—typically chicken, sausage, and shrimp—along with rice and broth. Season with Cajun spices and let it simmer until the rice absorbs all the flavors. This dish is perfect for a Sunday supper, as it can feed a crowd and is a meal in itself.
13. Brunswick Stew
This hearty stew is another Southern classic that can be confusing due to its varied ingredients. Typically made with a mix of meats, vegetables, and sometimes even barbecue, Brunswick stew is a comfort food that warms the soul.
To prepare, start with a base of cooked chicken or pork, shredded and mixed with tomatoes, corn, and lima beans. Flavor with spices and let it simmer until all the flavors meld together. Serve alongside some crusty bread or cornbread for a filling Sunday supper that is both satisfying and nostalgic.
14. Pimento Cheese
Pimento cheese, often dubbed the “caviar of the South,” can be a puzzling dish for those unacquainted with it. This creamy spread, made from cheese, mayonnaise, and pimento peppers, is an essential part of many Southern gatherings, often served on sandwiches or crackers.
To make pimento cheese, combine shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, diced pimentos, and mayonnaise in a bowl. Add spices like garlic powder and cayenne for an extra kick. Serve as an appetizer or side during your Sunday supper, and watch as guests are intrigued by its rich flavor and versatility.
15. Catfish and Hushpuppies
Finally, we arrive at catfish and hushpuppies, a dish that might raise some eyebrows but is deeply rooted in Southern culinary traditions. The crispy fried catfish paired with sweet hushpuppies is a delightful combination that embodies the essence of Southern cooking.
To prepare, soak the catfish fillets in buttermilk before dredging them in a seasoned cornmeal mixture. Fry until golden brown and serve with hushpuppies—small, round fritters made from cornmeal and often flavored with onion and spices. This dish is sure to impress even the most skeptical eaters and is perfect for a Sunday supper gathering.
Conclusion
While these 15 Southern Sunday suppers may confuse some, they also offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Southern cuisine. Each dish has its own story and tradition, making them not just meals but experiences to share with family and friends. Embrace the unexpected and bring these unique flavors to your next Sunday supper—you might just find a new favorite!
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16. Grits and Grillades
This dish is a true Southern breakfast-for-dinner option that might leave some puzzled. Grits, a staple of Southern cuisine, are often served alongside grillades, which are typically braised beef or pork in a rich gravy. The combination of creamy grits with the savory sauce is a delightful harmony of flavors.
To create this dish, start by cooking grits until they’re creamy and smooth. Meanwhile, prepare the grillades by searing slices of meat and simmering them in a flavorful mixture of tomatoes, onions, and spices. Serve the grillades over the grits for a comforting meal that will satisfy even the fussiest eaters.
17. Collard Greens and Ham Hocks
Collard greens are often misunderstood by those not raised in the South. This leafy green, cooked slowly with ham hocks or bacon, is a quintessential side dish that brings depth to any Sunday supper. The lengthy cooking process allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.
To prepare collard greens, rinse and chop the leaves before adding them to a pot with water, ham hocks, and seasonings. Let them simmer for a few hours until tender. Serve alongside cornbread or fried chicken for a truly Southern experience.
18. Biscuits and Gravy
This classic Southern breakfast dish can also make a hearty Sunday supper, although some may be surprised to see it at dinner time. Fluffy biscuits smothered in a creamy sausage gravy are a comforting choice that many Southern families cherish.
To make biscuits, mix flour, baking powder, butter, and buttermilk until just combined, then bake until golden. For the gravy, cook sausage until browned, sprinkle with flour, and gradually add milk, stirring until thickened. Pour the gravy over the biscuits and enjoy the warm, filling goodness.
19. Shrimp and Grits
This dish embodies the essence of Southern coastal cuisine, combining succulent shrimp with creamy, buttery grits. It can be a point of confusion for those unfamiliar with the pairing, but it’s a beloved classic in Southern households.
To prepare shrimp and grits, cook grits until creamy, then sauté shrimp with garlic, lemon juice, and spices. Serve the shrimp over the grits, drizzled with the pan sauce for a meal that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor.
20. Sweet Potato Pie
Ending the meal with a dessert can be confusing when it comes to sweet potato pie. Many might expect pumpkin pie, but sweet potato pie is a Southern staple that offers a unique twist on traditional flavors. Its creamy, spiced filling is a delightful way to conclude a Sunday supper.
To make sweet potato pie, mash cooked sweet potatoes and mix with sugar, eggs, milk, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Pour into a pie crust and bake until set. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a perfect ending.
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