Recipe Ideas for Hosting Your Own Kentucky Derby Party at Home
If you can't make it to the Kentucky Derby this year, don't be discouraged. Instead, throw your own celebration at home with a viewing party. Gather your family and friends for a day of fun filled with classic Kentucky dishes. Food Network has your menu covered with recipes for Kentucky Burgoo, Derby Pie, Mint Juleps (pictured above) and more. And just because you're staying home doesn't mean you shouldn't dress up for the races — ladies, put on your hats, and gentleman, don't forget your jackets!
Food Network Magazine's Herbed Benedictine — A classic Derby dish, benedictine is a spread made with cucumbers and cream cheese. Try it on toast points or crackers.
Pickled Shrimp — This tangy and refreshing recipe for pickled shrimp makes a great party appetizer.
Kentucky Burgoo — This classic rendition from Emeril of the famous Kentucky stew is packed with beef, lamb and chicken. Serve it with cornbread or biscuits.
Bourbon Beef Tenderloin — Marinating this beef tenderloin in Kentucky bourbon ensures it's full of flavor. You can choose to cook it on the grill or roast it in the oven.
Cheese Grits — These cheesy grits will make a great side dish to either the burgoo or the beef tenderloin. Make the recipe with your favorite cheddar.
Chocolate Kentucky Walnut Pie — Wrap up your Kentucky Derby party with a traditional pie for dessert. This recipe features a gooey chocolate layer topped with walnuts. Both the crust and the filling are spiked with bourbon.
Sweet Tea — Quench your thirst with a tall glass of sweet tea. The secret to this Southern drink is making a sugar syrup for sweetening the brewed tea.
Mint Julep (pictured above) — There's no libation more traditional for Derby viewing than a mint julep served in a julep cup. You'll want to have this cocktail in hand while watching the race.