Master Southern Cooking from Scratch
Step-by-step video and photo tutorials from our expert chefs
20
Techniques
5
Categories
500+
Process Photos
Start Here: Essential Techniques Every Southern Cook Needs
Beginner-friendly techniques that form the foundation of Southern cooking
All Techniques
Showing 20 techniques
The 3-2-1 Method for Perfect Ribs
Master the foolproof BBQ technique for smoking competition-quality ribs every time. This time-tested method produces tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs with a beautiful smoke ring and caramelized glaze.
The Three-Bowl Chicken Dredging System
Learn the professional technique for perfectly coated, crispy fried chicken. This assembly-line method ensures even coverage and maximum crunch with minimal mess.
Perfect Pie Crust: The Cold Butter Method
Learn the essential technique for creating tender, flaky pie crusts every time. This method uses cold butter pieces to create a crust that holds its shape and has beautiful, buttery layers.
Building and Maintaining a Charcoal Snake
Master this competition BBQ technique for maintaining steady, long-burning heat in a kettle grill. The charcoal snake method gives you hours of consistent temperature without constant attention.
The 7-Layer Biscuit Folding Technique
Master the traditional Southern technique of creating perfectly flaky, layered biscuits without a rolling pin. This foundational method produces sky-high biscuits with buttery layers that pull apart beautifully.
Dry Rub Application and Rest Times
Learn the proper technique for applying dry rubs and how resting time affects flavor penetration and bark formation. Timing makes the difference between surface seasoning and deep flavor.
The Pot Liquor Technique for Flavorful Greens
Learn how to create the rich, flavorful cooking liquid that's the hallmark of Southern greens. Pot liquor isn't just liquid - it's concentrated nutrition and flavor that completes the dish.
Water Bath Canning for Pickles and Preserves
Learn safe, tested methods for preserving high-acid foods. This essential Southern technique lets you preserve summer harvests for year-round enjoyment.
Achieving the Perfect Fried Okra Crunch
Learn the secret to crispy, not slimy fried okra. This technique combines proper preparation, coating, and frying methods for restaurant-quality results.
Perfectly Creamy Grits: Stirring Method
Master the technique for cooking smooth, creamy grits without lumps or grittiness. Learn the proper liquid ratio, stirring technique, and cooking time for restaurant-quality results.
Yeast Bread Proofing for Southern Rolls
Master the art of yeast bread making with this comprehensive guide to proofing. Learn how temperature, time, and technique affect your dinner rolls, ensuring perfect rise and texture every time.
Brining Basics for Juicy Pork Chops
Master the technique of wet brining to transform dry, tough pork chops into juicy, flavorful meat. Learn the science of osmosis and how salt enhances moisture retention.
Cornbread Chemistry: Why Buttermilk Matters
Understand the science behind perfect Southern cornbread. This technique teaches you how buttermilk, baking soda, and cast iron work together to create that signature golden crust and tender crumb.
Caramelizing Onions for Southern Dishes
Learn the patient, low-and-slow method for caramelizing onions to bring out their natural sweetness. This fundamental technique adds depth to countless Southern recipes.
Deep Fry Temperature Control Without a Thermometer
Master the traditional Southern method of gauging oil temperature using visual and physical cues. Learn to maintain perfect frying temperature for golden, non-greasy results.
Making Jam Without Pectin
Learn the traditional method for making jam using just fruit, sugar, and lemon juice. Understand how natural pectin works and how to achieve perfect gel without commercial pectin.
Properly Preparing Collard Greens (No Bitterness)
Learn the traditional Southern method for cleaning, cutting, and cooking collard greens that removes bitterness while preserving their nutritional value and deep flavor.
Creating Smoke Rings: The Science Explained
Understand the chemistry and technique behind the coveted pink smoke ring in BBQ. Learn how temperature, timing, and smoke compounds create this mark of authentic low-and-slow cooking.
Mopping vs. Spritzing: When to Use Each
Learn the difference between these two BBQ basting techniques and when to apply each for optimal bark formation, moisture retention, and flavor development.
How to Make Gravy from Pan Drippings
Transform the flavorful bits left after frying into silky, rich Southern gravy. This fundamental technique works with chicken, pork chops, steak, or sausage.