If you know, you know.
After all, no cookbook can tell you how muchbuttermilkto add like your grandmother could.
We rounded up our favorite Southern recipes that should bememorized and mastered.

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It doesn’t ask for much.
(That step, however simple, is imperative.)
Then, crispy fried perfection.

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Both sausage links and pork shoulder bring incredible richness to thisstew.
When in doubt, our classicButtermilk Biscuitsmake a delicious base for breakfast.
Starting with the same aromatics as mostonion, bell pepper, celeryit’s a heavenly free-for-all after that.

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Deviled Eggs
This favorite Southern snack and side doesn’t always get the credit it’s due.
Don’t forget the heirloom deviled egg tray.
Cheese Straws
These might be the hallmark of Southern hosting.

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In fact, a batch of these simple cheese straws can carry an entire party on its back.
Learn it, and learn it well.
As much so as its sibling, the green bean casserole.

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(Here’s our favorite recipe for that.)
These are dishes you’ll cook your entire life, so why not master them now?
The rest is personalized seasoning.

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Sour cream helps make the filling rich and comforting but also tangy and light.
It’s the time-saving tip that’ll get chicken and dumplings on the dinner table a little bit faster.
Don’t separate them from their favorite friendsham hocks and baconand we won’t have any problems.

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Apple cider vinegar, sugar, and garlic give a nice touch.
This recipe features chicken and sausage as the meats to make a hearty and delicious meal for any occasion.
Homemade Baked Beans
It’s not a Southern barbecue without a tray of delicious baked beans.

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This recipe makes a meaty, savory tray of baked beans that all will enjoy.
Tomatoes are the must-have ingredient!
Browned butter is the extra step that gives this cornbread its “perfect” title.

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Tack onchicken saladandham saladto your list, and you’ll have mastered the Southern spread trio.
Seasoned, dredged in flour, dipped in egg-milk mixture, and pan-fried in oilthat’s about it.
Oh, but don’t dare forget about the pepper-cream gravy, which is made from the drippings.

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Stone-ground cornmeal makes for the crispiest crust you’ve ever tasted, and hearty seasoning will steer you home.
There’s still debate whether this dish hails from Georgia or Virginia.
It takes a page straight from grandmother’s recipe box.

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Peach Cobbler
Peach cobbler is the ultimate classic.
Even if you practically burn water on the stove, you might make this easy six-ingredient recipe.
Bourbon Balls
This boozy confection is a Southern holiday favorite worth knowing.

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Million Dollar Pound Cake
Will Dickey
This is as timeless as it gets.
A basic pound cake can fit in anywhere from bridal showers to big potlucks.
Serve with toppings of your choice, including fruit and whipped cream.

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Gumbo
In the realm of Louisiana cooking, gumbo is many a cook’s specialty.
(Okra is the ideal thickening agent.)
The base requires aromatics like onion, bell pepper, and celery.

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Hot sauce is always appreciated.
Pan-Fried Okra
This essentially two-ingredient side dish is a must-know for any Southern cook.
Chili
Having a go-to chili recipe is necessary for cold winter nights and football tailgates.

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From holiday parties to neighborly baking, anything with pecans feels ultimately Southern.

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