Ever wondered why some biscuits rise to fluffy perfection while others boast irresistible flaky layers? Crack the code to biscuit nirvana with us, Dave and Jim, and our pal Devon—a bona fide baking aficionado. Together, we sift through the delicious details that make Southern biscuits a household staple, guided by the wisdom of Natalie Dupree and Cynthia Graubart's cookbook. We weigh the pros and cons of convenience from a can against the allure of crafting your own dough, all while sharing a laugh and a love for all-purpose flour's forgiving nature.

Buttermilk takes center stage in our second act, where its tangy legacy in the biscuit's tender crumb is celebrated. We reminisce about the good old days of buttermilk as a buttery byproduct and tackle the chilled challenge that butter brings to the table—literally. Health enthusiasts and dietary devotees, fear not; you'll find solace in our personal trials and triumphs as we navigate the butter-versus-shortening battleground with your well-being in mind.

For the grand finale, we're disclosing top-secret baking intelligence that could very well turn your next biscuit batch into the talk of the town. Spoiler alert: non-aluminum baking powder might just be your new best friend. So, whether you're a baking newbie or a dough-slinging veteran, subscribe for a heap of tips and a sprinkle of laughs. Remember, you've got a standing invitation to our kitchen—where every biscuit tells a story, and every story is worth sharing on Sweet Tea and Tacos.


Southern Biscuits by Natalie Dupree and Cynthia Graubart
https://www.amazon.com/Southern-Biscuits-Nathalie-Dupree/dp/1423603784
Kerry Gold Butter
https://www.kerrygoldusa.com/products/kerrygold-butter/
Bisquick
https://www.bettycrocker.com/products/bisquick
Pioneer Mix
https://pioneerbrand.com/
Baking with Julia by Julia Child
https://www.amazon.com/Baking-Julia-Techniques-Extraordinary-Child/dp/0688146570

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Who knew that the comforting embrace of a warm, buttery biscuit could carry the weight of family history and the power to soothe the soul? Devon recounts her transformation from a skeptic to a staunch advocate of self-rising flour in biscuit-making, a journey flavored with treasured family recipes and her mother's pioneer mix. As we swap stories, you'll find yourself nestled in the heart of a conversation that's all about the quest for that perfect biscuit—crispy like Jen's grandfather preferred, or fluffy and layered as per our own personal quests. It's not just about recipes; it's about the memories that rise with every batch, and the trial and error that leads to your very own scratch-made slice of heaven.

Gather around our kitchen table as we reveal the ritual of baking biscuits that emerged from the days of pandemic uncertainty, turning into a cherished Sunday tradition. Whether it's slathering them with jams and honey or crowning them with sausage gravy, we share the comforts of our favorite toppings and the stories they tell. But it's not all about looking back; we also discuss the practicalities of biscuit size, the craft behind the ideal cut, and even the secret weapon of a cast iron griddle. Devon, our special guest, brings her own flavor to this episode, making it a rich tapestry of tips, techniques, and the warmth only a well-baked biscuit can bring. Join us for this cozy foray into the world of biscuits, and let's continue to bake up new traditions together.

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Step into the warmth of our kitchen where nostalgia simmers on the stovetop, and tales of culinary traditions bubble up like a comforting broth. This time around, we're ladling out secrets for the ultimate chicken pot pie, a dish that's stitched into the quilt of American cuisine. From the importance of choice chicken to the flaky, butter-laden bliss of a homemade crust, we're serving up the how-tos and hearty laughs—especially when our four-legged sous chefs eagerly await their share. And while we're tugging at the heartstrings, join us for a journey down south, reminiscing about church potlucks and the delicate art of chicken and dumplings that could start a family feud or seal a friendship.

Then, Dave and I swap stories from our shelter-at-home saga, stirring up more than just stews and sauces. We discovered joy, resilience, and that sometimes a failed beans and rice can turn into a triumphant Cincinnati chili. Each episode in the kitchen became an adventure, and we invite you to pull up a chair and share your own. So, whether you're seeking to perfect your pot pie prowess or simply need a dash of inspiration to spice up your home cooking, this episode promises a feast for your ears and your appetite.

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Ever wondered how to streamline your cooking and elevate your kitchen game without cluttering up your counters with gadgets? Well, we've got you covered! Join us as we regale you with our tales of transformation, from cumbersome kitchen routines to culinary wizardry, with the aid of some nifty small kitchen appliances. We'll reveal how a trusty food processor is not just a gadget but a revolution waiting to happen in your meal prep, adept at conquering everything from dicing to shredding. Plus, we rave about the simplicity brought about by the humble electric water kettle, a true hero in freeing up stovetop real estate and getting that perfect brew, piping hot, in no time.

Let's not overlook the slow cooker and Instant Pot, which have become flag bearers of convenience cooking. Whether it's simmering bone broth to perfection or transporting a hearty chili to a potluck, we discuss how these modern marvels cater to various culinary endeavours—including the surprising delights of homemade yogurt. And for those wondering whether to invest in a blender or a food processor, we've got a robust debate lined up, with the Vitamix entering the ring as a formidable contender. It's an episode packed with personal anecdotes, clashes over cooking styles, and a deep dive into the utility of each appliance, ensuring that by the end, you'll be equipped to choose the right kitchen comrades to suit your culinary quests.


KitchenAid Stand Mixer
https://www.kitchenaid.com/countertop-appliances/stand-mixers.html
Instant Pot
https://www.instantpot.com/
Vitamix Blender
https://www.vitamix.com/
Crock-Pot
https://www.crock-pot.com/

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Ever wondered how a simple machine could transform your kitchen into a fountain of health? That's exactly what happened when we took the plunge into the world of juicing, and trust us, it's a tale peppered with as much zest as a lemon! Kicking off with why we succumbed to the allure of a juicer, we chat about the peaks and pitfalls of our journey - from the immediate cleanup crusade to the zesty ginger escapades that turned our taste buds and tummies upside down. Along the way, we've learned to finesse our recipes to match our unique health profiles and discovered the joy of guzzling down nature's bounty in liquid form. Oh, and if you're teetering on the brink of buying a juicer, we've got the lowdown on picking the perfect one for you.

As we swirled through the art of juice crafting, we stumbled upon a few pro tips that we're itching to share. Picture this: a juicer that wrings out every bit of goodness, leaving you with pulp so dry it practically screams to be repurposed. We'll walk you through the pre-juicing ballet of washing and prepping, and the post-juicing rigmarole that keeps your machine in tip-top shape. Want to know our secret concoction that packs a punch of both veggie vigor and fruity finesse? We'll spill the beans on that too, along with the scoop on how juicing can supercharge your health. So squeeze yourself a glass, sit back, and soak up our juicy conversation—it's ripe with insights that will quench your thirst for a healthier life.

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Ever wondered how a home chef can transform from a culinary beginner to a kitchen ninja while raising a small army of kids? Cue Stephanie, our amazing guest this week on Sweet Tea and Tacos, who's serving up her story of mastering the stovetop with six children in tow. From the bustling aisles of grocery stores to the trenches of meal prep, she's dishing out her strategies for keeping everyone's bellies and hearts full. Discover how Stephanie's kitchen became a hub of creativity, efficiency, and sheer culinary delight, regardless of the day's chaos.

As we sit around the kitchen table, we're stirred by Stephanie's tales of cultivating adventurous eaters and creating unforgettable mealtime moments. Whether it's implementing the "one bite rule" or finding that sweet spot between a child's favorite dishes and the brave new world of Brussels sprouts, this episode is a smorgasbord of heartwarming stories and practical advice. And let's not forget the butter—oh, the butter! Join us for an episode peppered with laughter, sprinkled with wisdom, and overflowing with tips for bringing your family together in the heart of the home—the kitchen.

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As we steep ourselves in the rich traditions of the South, our latest episode unfurls the storied past and vibrant present of sweet tea. Let us take you back to the sun-soaked '70s in California, where sun tea was all the rage, and forward through time to the Southern porches where sweet tea is more than a drink—it's a way of life. We'll unwrap how something as simple as the availability of ice and refrigeration changed the game for this amber nectar, transforming it into a regional symbol of hospitality and comfort.

With the tinkling of ice cubes in glasses as our backdrop, we're spilling family secrets on brewing that perfect pitcher. From the art of simple syrup to the precise tea-to-water ratio, we cover it all, ensuring your next sweet tea is as clear and inviting as a Southern sky. But we don't stop there; we also wander through the aromatic lanes of Earl Grey and the gentle slopes of green tea, discussing their unique characteristics and benefits. So pull up a chair and join us for a chat that's as warm and inviting as the drink we're honoring—you just might find yourself inspired to share your own tea traditions with us.

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As we pull up a seat at the kitchen table this Mother's Day weekend, Jen and I are stirring up more than just our family's favorite dishes. Remember those classic 70s comfort foods that seemed to warm the soul as much as the belly? We're taking you on a nostalgic journey through our childhood kitchens, from my family's hearty spaghetti with meat sauce to Jen's cherished Italian sausage with rigatoni. And who could forget the universal love for a good old tuna noodle casserole, am I right? Let's laugh together over the many uses of cream of mushroom soup and share the warmth of those cozy family gatherings that remain close to our hearts.

Sure, there are no guest voices in this episode, but the stories and recipes we're dishing out are as rich and inviting as ever. Imagine transforming the simplest of ingredients, like sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts, into heartwarming traditions that stick with us for a lifetime. We're not just recounting the past; we're looking at how these recipes play a role in our present, influencing the culinary landscape we're crafting for our children. Join us for heartfelt tales and savory secrets that bridge generations, and perhaps you'll feel inspired to share some of your own cherished food memories and Mother's Day tributes. Let's celebrate the moms and mother figures who've seasoned our lives with love and home-cooked meals.

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Ever wondered which pantry essentials can take your home cooking from good to great? Step into our culinary world as Dave and I, Jen, divulge the top five spices that are absolute game-changers for any kitchen. We'll let you in on how the subtle punch of white pepper can elevate your dishes and why the nostalgic aroma of bay leaves is a must for that homely touch. If convenience is your thing, you'll appreciate our nod to granulated garlic, and hear us wax poetic about the transformative power of a good ol' Southern-style liquid hot sauce.

Join us for a kitchen rendezvous where we share our love for the unsung hero of the herb world: dried dill, and its unexpected ability to spruce up everything from a classic egg salad to a sophisticated salmon entrée. We're bringing you the inside scoop on the importance of quality oils, the magic of toasting spices, and why every home baker needs a bottle of top-notch vanilla extract on their shelf. From savory to sweet, we're serving up tips and tales that'll inspire you to stock your pantry wisely and cook with heart. So, tie on your apron, grab a whisk, and get ready to infuse your meals with a dash of passion and a sprinkle of know-how.

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Picture this: a heaping plate of summer squash with onions, the tang of fresh tomatoes kissed with a dollop of mayonnaise, and the savory crunch of fried okra dusted with almond flour. Our Sweet Tea and Tacos podcast takes you on a flavorful journey through the South's summer bounty, where we discuss how a variety of garden-fresh vegetables makes a whole meal. We're not just talking recipes; we're sharing memories, the kind that stick to your ribs and heart. Grab a seat at our table as we pay tribute to the generational traditions of Southern vegetable gardens and discuss how these simple, yet profoundly satisfying, dishes have shaped our palates and our lives.

As we venture further into the culinary landscape, we'll reveal how Southern cooking traditions are marrying modern dietary preferences, without losing an ounce of soul. Imagine biting into a grain-free tomato sandwich where the bread is just as inviting as the ripe, juicy center, or enjoying a plate of eggplant that's been fried to perfection with a healthy twist. We're dishing out personal anecdotes on how we've reinvented classic Southern dishes with grain-free alternatives that will tickle the taste buds of foodies and health-conscious eaters alike. So, whether you're a die-hard Southerner or just love the comforting embrace of homegrown cooking, join us as we celebrate the legacy of Southern cuisine with a modern twist.

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