Read by Michael Flamel

Welcome to “Garden to Table Journeys: Southern Garden to Table Recipe Collection.” This collection is more than just a compilation of recipes; it’s a generational American experience passed down through the Nicholas family. As Don Nicholas, executive publisher of the Food Gardening Network, I am honored to share these cherished recipes that have been lovingly handed down from my father and are now a legacy I pass to my sons. These recipes embody the essence of Southern cooking with a California twist, a testament to our family’s culinary journey.

In this collection, my colleague Christy Page has brought these recipes to life with her elegant and charming artwork, enhancing the storytelling and the culinary experience. Each recipe is infused with love, tradition, and the vibrant flavors of our family’s garden, making every dish a celebration of our heritage.

Nicks Southern Fried Chicken: Herbs, spices, and a whole lotta love

In the heart of California, my father, a culinary wizard from the South, brought the soul of Southern cuisine to the West Coast. His legendary Southern fried chicken, with its secret blend of herbs and spices, became the centerpiece of our Sunday feasts. Our backyard in Sacramento, a miniature Eden, was where the magic began, with homegrown basil, thyme, rosemary, and a secret herb mix.

Join us in the kitchen as we recreate this Southern masterpiece. The crispy, golden-brown chicken, paired with sides like spicy jalapeño cornbread and sweet iced mint tea, is a testament to the flavors of the South flourishing in California.

Jalapeño Cornbread from the Stovetop: A Southern staple with some California zest

My father’s love for spicy food led to the creation of a unique twist on traditional Southern cornbread. By merging his childhood cornbread recipe with the fiery kick of California jalapeños, he created a dish that became a family favorite. The combination of buttermilk, sharp cheddar cheese, and jalapeños baked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet adds a delightful zest to any meal.

Fried Chicken Gravy and Chunky Mashed Potatoes: Leveraging the leavings to create Southern magic

No Southern feast is complete without gravy, and my father’s fried chicken gravy was the perfect encore to his crispy chicken. Made from the flavorful drippings of the fried chicken, this gravy, combined with chunky mashed potatoes, created a symphony of flavors that left us yearning for more.

Black-Eyed Peas with Bacon and Onions: From stranger to Southern staple

In Houston, Texas, I discovered the humble black-eyed peas at a local restaurant. Intrigued by their savory flavor, I embarked on a culinary adventure to recreate the dish. The combination of tender black-eyed peas, crispy bacon, and sautéed onions became a comforting Southern classic in our family.

Heirloom Harvest Mac & Cheese Delight: A Southern twist with garden-fresh flavors

Inspired by our garden’s bounty, this mac and cheese recipe elevates the traditional dish with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. The result is a creamy, herb-infused delight that pairs perfectly with Southern fried chicken and a refreshing glass of iced tea.

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Southern Pie Crust: A garden-fresh match made in heaven

The crowning jewel of our garden was the strawberry rhubarb pie, a dessert that brought together the sweetness of strawberries and the tang of rhubarb. My father’s secret Southern pie crust added the perfect flaky, buttery finish. This pie, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of sharp cheddar cheese, became a cherished family tradition.

We invite you to embark on this culinary journey with us, savoring each recipe’s rich flavors and the stories behind them. May these dishes bring you the same joy, laughter, and togetherness they have brought to our family for generations. ❖