Kentucky: The Kentucky Hot Brown Challenge
Exploring an Iconic State Dish
The Kentucky Hot Brown, a legendary culinary delight originating from Louisville's esteemed Brown Hotel, stands as a testament to the rich gastronomic heritage of the Bluegrass State. Conceived by Fred K. Schmidt in 1926, this open-faced turkey sandwich has garnered a reputation that extends far beyond its Kentucky roots. The hearty dish combines thick slices of turkey (What wine goes well with turkey?) with crispy bacon and a delicate Mornay sauce, crowned with tomatoes (What wine goes well with tomatoes?) and a sprinkle of cheese (how long does cheese last?) before being broiled to perfection.
The love for the Hot Brown has given rise to the Kentucky Hot Brown Challenge, a celebration of this regional specialty where enthusiasts and newcomers alike endeavor to craft their own versions of the iconic sandwich. The contest not only honors the original creation of Schmidt but also encourages culinary creativity, pushing participants to maintain the integral elements of the dish while exploring their own unique twists.
Louisville's tribute to the Hot Brown signifies more than a simple food competition; it's a cultural event that pays homage to a beloved local tradition. The challenge not only draws attention to the storied past of The Brown Hotel’s kitchen innovation but also cements the Hot Brown’s status as a symbol of Kentucky’s hospitable and inventive spirit.
The Origin and History
The Kentucky Hot Brown originated from the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky during the roaring 1920s. Fred K. Schmidt, a chef at the Brown Hotel, crafted this iconic sandwich as a culinary solution for hungry guests. The story goes, after dinner dances, attendees sought hearty fare to re-energize after a night of revelry.
Location: Brown Hotel, Louisville, KY
Creator: Fred K. Schmidt
Year: 1926
Inspiration: Need for fulfilling late-night meal post-dinner dances
A beloved tradition, the Hot Brown became a staple, particularly around the time of the Kentucky Derby, offering a warm and comforting dish to the hotel's patrons. Its popularity surged due to its unique combination of ingredients and its rich, creamy Mornay sauce.
Ingredients: Turkey, bacon, tomatoes, Mornay sauce
Serving: Open-faced sandwich
Association: Kentucky Derby
Schmidt's creation has contributed to Kentucky's culinary legend, ensuring that both the sandwich and its birthplace, the Brown Hotel, remain an integral part of Louisville's dining scene.
Essential Ingredients
Crafting the perfect Kentucky Hot Brown demands the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating this Southern culinary masterpiece, from the succulent proteins to the creamy Mornay sauce.
Main Proteins
The foundation of the dish lies in its main proteins: roasted turkey and crispy bacon. Typically, thick slices of succulent turkey breast are used, giving the dish its heartiness. The bacon, cooked until it's just the right amount of crispiness, adds a smoky flavor that contrasts delightfully with the tender turkey.
The Bread Base
The bread base acts as the platform for the towering Hot Brown. A good-quality bread, often white or Texas toast, is chosen for its sturdy texture and mild flavor, which supports the richer components without overshadowing them. It is typically toasted lightly to add a subtle crunchiness to the dish.
Cheeses and Sauce
A velvety Mornay sauce is a pivotal ingredient, which starts with a blend of butter and flour to form a roux. Milk or heavy cream is then whisked in, enriching the mixture. Melting into this base are cheeses—often a sharp Pecorino Romano or Parmesan—that lend a nutty depth to the sauce's creamy texture.
Vegetables and Garnishes
The Hot Brown is garnished with ripe, thinly-sliced tomatoes which offer a bright acidity and a splash of color. A sprinkling of chopped parsley not only provides a fresh herbaceous note but also adds a vibrant green that visually complements the rich, golden-brown hues of the dish.
Kentucky Hot Brown Recipe
The Kentucky Hot Brown is a savory dish comprising an open-faced turkey sandwich topped with bacon and a rich Mornay sauce, then baked to perfection. This recipe captures the essence of the famous Louisville culinary tradition, providing a step-by-step guide to recreate this Southern classic at home.
Preparation Steps
Preheat the oven to 350°F to ensure it's ready for baking.
Begin by toasting the bread. You can use either Texas Toast or thick-cut white bread, keeping in mind that the sturdier the base, the better it will hold up under the sauce and toppings.
Layer the sandwich with roasted turkey slices on the toasted bread.
In a saucepan, create the Mornay sauce by melting butter, gradually whisking in flour, then slowly adding milk until the sauce is thick and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, a pinch of nutmeg, and paprika for a hint of spice.
Baking and Broiling
Spoon the sauce over the turkey and toast, covering them generously.
Add slices of crispy bacon on top of the sauce.
Place the prepared sandwiches (What wine goes well with sandwiches?) on a baking sheet and put them in the oven. Allow to bake until the sauce begins to bubble and the edges of the bread become golden.
For a perfectly browned top, switch the oven to broil for the final few minutes. Keep a watchful eye on the sandwiches, as the broiler can go from browning to burning very quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Kentucky Hot Brown fresh out of the oven for optimal taste.
Garnish with additional paprika, chopped parsley, or tomato wedges for added color and flavor.
To round out the meal, consider a simple side salad or some fresh fruit to balance the richness of the dish.
Culinary Techniques
Creating a Kentucky Hot Brown involves several critical culinary steps that ensure this open-faced sandwich is rich in flavor and texture. The layering of ingredients must be performed with care, and the preparation of the cheese sauce, specifically the Mornay sauce, requires precise cooking techniques to achieve the desired silky consistency. Precision under the broiler is vital for that perfectly browned and bubbling finish.
Assembling the Sandwich
The Kentucky Hot Brown is traditionally an open-faced sandwich, starting with a base of toasted bread, often trimmed of crusts for a neater presentation. On top of the toast, one layers sliced turkey, typically roasted and freshly cut. This must be done in a way that maintains the structure of the sandwich, allowing for even coverage of the subsequent Mornay sauce.
Making the Mornay Sauce
A fundamental component of the Kentucky Hot Brown is the Mornay sauce—a velvety cheese sauce derived from béchamel. To make it, one starts with a roux, cooking equal parts of flour and butter, then gradually adds milk under constant whisking to prevent lumps. High-quality cheese, typically Pecorino or Parmesan, is melted into the sauce until it is smooth and creamy.
Achieving the Perfect Broil
The final step is broiling the assembled sandwich. Place the open-faced sandwich topped with sliced Roma tomatoes and the Mornay sauce under a broiler until the sauce bubbles and begins to turn golden brown. Monitoring during broiling is crucial; it requires a careful eye to ensure that the sauce caramelizes without burning, creating a mouthwatering blend of tastes and textures.
Iconic Status
The Kentucky Hot Brown, recognized as a culinary symbol of the state, has garnered an iconic status through its deep influence on local culture and its appeal that has spread far beyond the borders of Kentucky.
Influence on Local Culture
In Kentucky, the Hot Brown has evolved into more than just a meal; it's an integral part of the state's identity and is often associated with the Kentucky Derby. This open-faced sandwich, loaded with turkey, bacon, and a rich Mornay sauce, is a signature dish at many Derby parties, reflecting Kentucky's hospitable spirit and culinary tradition. The dish enjoys a celebrity endorsement as well, with renowned chefs like Bobby Flay having put their own spin on the original recipe, further cementing its status in local culture.
Popularity Beyond Kentucky
Though rooted in Kentucky's culinary heritage, the Hot Brown has won hearts across the nation. Its fame extends well beyond state lines, often featured on the menus of Southern-themed restaurants. The indulgent nature of the sandwich, coupled with its ties to the celebrated Kentucky Derby, contributes to its nationwide popularity, as food enthusiasts endeavor to recreate the quintessential Derby party experience.
Variations and Spin-Offs
The Kentucky Hot Brown, a classic dish born and beloved in the Bluegrass State, has evolved beyond its traditional recipe into a variety of forms that cater to diverse tastes and occasions.
Local Twists
Across Kentucky, chefs have infused the Hot Brown with local flavors. In Louisville, one might encounter Hot Browns topped with country ham, a nod to Kentucky's rich charcuterie tradition. During the Kentucky Derby, inventive sliders version of the Hot Brown emerge, making the dish more accessible to the crowd as a walk-around comfort food.
Modern Interpretations
Modern chefs have reimagined this comfort food staple in inventive ways. Some incorporate lobster for a luxurious twist or pretzel bread for a textural surprise. These contemporary renditions maintain the dish’s core elements while pushing the envelope of what a Hot Brown can be.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
The Hot Brown's versatility extends to accommodating dietary preferences with vegetarian and vegan adaptations. Mushroom gravy might replace the traditional Mornay sauce, and smoked tempeh can stand in for bacon, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this Kentucky comfort food no matter their dietary restrictions.
Nutritional Information
The Kentucky Hot Brown is a dish that comes with a substantial amount of calories. A single serving of this hearty sandwich is known to contain approximately 951 calories, which can be quite significant for those monitoring their daily intake. This high caloric content is partly due to the use of heavy cream, cheese, and butter in its preparation.
In terms of specific nutrients, the breakdown is as follows:
Total Fat: 59g
Saturated Fat: 30g
Protein: The protein content is contributed by the turkey and bacon, although exact amounts may vary depending on the recipe.
The classic Mornay sauce, a key component of the Hot Brown, is made with heavy cream and cheese, contributing a rich flavor and creamy texture as well as additional fat and calories.
Here's a simple list to display the nutrition information:
Calories: 951
Total Fat: 59g (76% DV)
Saturated Fat: 30g (150% DV)
Trans Fat: 1.3g
Protein: Not specified, but present through turkey and bacon.
It should be noted that these values can fluctuate based on the size of the serving and the specific recipe used. The cheese, a prominent ingredient for taste, also adds to the total fat and saturated fat content. When considering the nutrition of the Kentucky Hot Brown, potential consumers should be aware of the high-calorie density and the significant amount of saturated fat in each serving.
Special Occasions and Events
In Kentucky, the Hot Brown has become more than a mere dish; it's a symbol of festive spirit enjoyed at major events and holidays, intertwining with the state's rich culture and traditions.
The Kentucky Derby Connection
The Kentucky Derby is hailed as the most exciting two minutes in sports, and it's also a beacon for traditional Kentucky cuisine. During Derby season, the Hot Brown is a staple on menus, often paired with a refreshing Mint Julep or an Old Fashioned, both classic cocktails that complement the rich flavors of the Hot Brown. This iconic horse race not only showcases the best of thoroughbred competition but also celebrates Kentucky's culinary heritage.
Signature Derby Dishes:
Kentucky Hot Brown
Mint Julep
Bourbon Balls
Derby parties often feature Hot Browns and are a terrific way for attendees to enjoy a hearty meal that captures the essence of the Bluegrass State while indulging in the race day festivities.
Holiday Celebrations
The versatility of the Hot Brown shines during Thanksgiving, where it's served as a delightful way to use leftover turkey. Transforming the holiday's main attraction into a savory open-faced sandwich, complete with bubbling cheese and crispy bacon, gives a Kentucky twist to Thanksgiving leftovers.
Holiday Drink Pairings:
Bourbon
Old Fashioned
Families across Kentucky have embraced the dish as part of their holiday traditions, often pairing it with a glass of rich bourbon to enhance the celebration. Whether it's sipping bourbon neat or mixed into a classic Old Fashioned, the combination of the comforting Hot Brown and Kentucky's famous spirit makes holiday gatherings even more memorable.
DIY Tips and Tricks
Creating a Kentucky Hot Brown at home requires attention to detail, from acquiring the right ingredients to presenting a visually appealing dish. The following tips and tricks will help ensure that the preparation process is smooth, and the final product is delicious and satisfying.
Shopping for Ingredients
Bread: Opt for a sturdy variety that can support the weight of the toppings without becoming soggy.
Turkey: Quality roasted turkey is essential. Choose fresh, thick slices from the deli rather than pre-packaged options.
Bacon: Look for thick-cut bacon that can be crisped up nicely without burning.
Cheese: Purchase good-quality cheddar or Gruyère for the Mornay sauce to ensure proper melting and flavor.
Produce: Fresh tomatoes and parsley should be vibrant in color and firm to the touch for the best taste and presentation.
Cookware and Utensils
Pie Pan: A small pie pan or individual oven-safe dish is ideal for assembling and broiling each Hot Brown.
Rimmed Baking Sheet: Use a rimmed baking sheet when cooking the bacon to catch the drippings and prevent oven messes.
Saucepan: A small, heavy-bottomed saucepan is necessary for making a smooth, lump-free Mornay sauce.
Presentation and Plating
Tomato Slices: Arrange tomato slices neatly on top of the turkey before pouring over the Mornay sauce to add color and freshness.
Parsley: A garnish of finely chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a subtle herby freshness to the dish.
Cheese: When the Hot Brown is almost done, sprinkle additional cheese on top to create a more inviting, golden crust.
By focusing on the quality of ingredients and using the correct cookware, one can master the creation of this Kentucky classic. Proper presentation, including the strategic placement of tomatoes and a touch of parsley, will provide both visual and taste appeal to the dish.
Comparative Dishes
In the realm of comfort food, there's a beloved Kentucky staple known as the Hot Brown sandwich that stands out. This open-faced turkey sandwich drenched in Mornay sauce and topped with crispy bacon and tomatoes is a heartwarming representation of Southern cuisine. It's said that The Cafe provides a lighter-tasting Hot Brown, which stands in delightful contrast to richer versions elsewhere.
When exploring dishes similar to the Hot Brown, one might look at the Gratin, a baked or broiled dish with a lightly browned crust of breadcrumbs or melted cheese. While not a sandwich, its use of lush, creamy elements bears a resemblance to the rich Mornay sauce found in the Hot Brown.
Welsh Rarebit, or Welsh Rabbit, is another dish resembling the Hot Brown in spirit. It typically involves a savory cheese sauce, often including ale, served hot over toasted bread. Where the Hot Brown boasts turkey and bacon, Welsh Rarebit makes cheese the star.
The Croque Monsieur, a French bistro classic, shares a kinship with the Hot Brown as well. This hot sandwich encases ham between slices of brioche, topped with béchamel or Mornay sauce and grated cheese. Moreover, for those seeking that bit of trivia, it's the masterful Mornay sauce that lies at the heart of the Brown Hotel's Hot Brown — an element they've famously kept secret.
Each of these dishes contributes uniquely to the world of hearty, cheese-covered entrees, with the Hot Brown holding its own as a regional favorite with undeniable charm.
Media and Online Presence
The Kentucky Hot Brown has a significant presence across various online platforms, including social media sites like Pinterest and numerous food blogs. Enthusiasts share recipes, photos, and cooking tips, creating a vibrant community around this beloved dish.
On Pinterest, boards are dedicated to the Hot Brown where users pin their favorite takes on the classic. These boards not only provide recipes but also serve as inspiration for presentation, garnishing, and variations of the Hot Brown, offering a visual feast for the eyes.
Food blogs are a treasure trove of Hot Brown recipes and discussions regarding the best techniques to perfect the dish. Bloggers often share their experiences visiting Kentucky and tasting authentic Hot Browns from local chefs. Posts may include guided steps with photographs, enhancing the credibility and practicality of the content.
Cooking shows have also explored the Hot Brown, with chefs demonstrating the construction of the dish to audiences. These segments shed light on the rich history of the Hot Brown and its culinary significance in Kentucky culture.
On social media, hashtags like #HotBrown and #KentuckyCuisine have gathered thousands of posts on platforms like Instagram and Twitter. Users share their culinary creations and experiences with the dish at various events and restaurants.
The Hot Brown remains a subject of admiration and exploration among culinary aficionados, making it a consistent topic in the online food community.
