Whipping Up Southern Charm: Delicious Recipes Using Dolly Parton’s New Kitchen Line at Dollar General
Dollar General and Dolly Parton have teamed up to bring a touch of Southern charm to your kitchen with a new line of cookware and kitchen essentials. This collaboration promises both style and functionality, making it easier than ever to create delicious meals with a touch of country flair. To celebrate this exciting launch, we’re diving into some mouthwatering recipes that you can easily create using Dolly’s new kitchen line, available at your local Dollar General. Get ready to embrace your inner Southern cook and transform your kitchen into a haven of comfort food and delightful flavors!
The Dolly Parton Kitchen Line: A Sneak Peek
Before we jump into the recipes, let’s take a moment to appreciate the collection itself. While availability may vary by location and items could change over time, here’s what you might expect to find in Dolly’s kitchen line at Dollar General:
* **Cookware:** Think durable pots and pans, maybe in cast iron or non-stick varieties, perfect for everything from frying up bacon to simmering hearty stews.
* **Bakeware:** Muffin tins, cake pans, and pie dishes will be essential for creating sweet treats and comforting desserts.
* **Utensils:** Spatulas, whisks, spoons, and more – the basic tools you need to mix, stir, and serve your culinary creations.
* **Mixing Bowls:** Sturdy and stylish mixing bowls for prepping ingredients and combining flavors.
* **Linens:** Dish towels, oven mitts, and aprons to add a touch of Dolly’s signature style to your kitchen.
* **Decor:** Small decorative items like trivets or countertop organizers to enhance the aesthetics of your cooking space.
The key features of this line are likely to be affordability, durability, and a touch of Southern-inspired design. Keep an eye out for signature Dolly-esque touches, such as butterfly motifs or cheerful color palettes. Availability can change rapidly, so check your local Dollar General for the most up-to-date selection.
Recipe 1: Dolly’s Famous Buttermilk Biscuits
No Southern kitchen is complete without a recipe for fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth buttermilk biscuits. This recipe is a classic, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish to any Southern meal. Using Dolly’s new mixing bowls and bakeware from Dollar General will make the process even more enjoyable.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 1 cup cold buttermilk
* 2 tablespoons melted butter, for brushing
**Instructions:**
1. **Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet:** Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet (ideally from Dolly’s bakeware line!) with parchment paper.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl (one of Dolly’s!), whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. **Cut in the Butter:** Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The smaller the pieces of butter, the flakier the biscuits will be. Make sure the butter stays cold!
4. **Add the Buttermilk:** Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the cold buttermilk. Use a fork to gently mix the buttermilk into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will result in tough biscuits. The dough will be shaggy and slightly sticky.
5. **Turn Out and Knead:** Lightly flour a clean surface. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface. Gently pat the dough into a 3/4-inch thick rectangle.
6. **Fold and Cut:** Fold the dough in half and pat it back into a 3/4-inch thick rectangle. Repeat this folding process 2-3 times to create layers. This step is crucial for flaky biscuits.
7. **Cut Out Biscuits:** Use a 2-inch biscuit cutter (or a drinking glass) to cut out biscuits. Press straight down and avoid twisting the cutter, as this can seal the edges and prevent the biscuits from rising properly. Re-roll the scraps of dough to cut out more biscuits, but keep in mind that these biscuits may not be as tender.
8. **Bake:** Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each biscuit. Brush the tops of the biscuits with melted butter (using one of Dolly’s utensils).
9. **Bake until Golden:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and have risen nicely. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
10. **Serve:** Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack (if you have one from Dolly’s line, even better!). Serve warm with butter, jam, honey, or your favorite Southern toppings.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Keep it Cold:** The key to flaky biscuits is keeping the ingredients cold. Use cold butter and cold buttermilk. You can even chill the flour and mixing bowl before starting.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the dough will develop the gluten and result in tough biscuits. Mix until just combined.
* **Add Cheese or Herbs:** For a savory twist, add shredded cheddar cheese or chopped fresh herbs (such as chives or rosemary) to the dough.
* **Sweet Biscuits:** For sweet biscuits, add a tablespoon of sugar to the dry ingredients.
Recipe 2: Hearty Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe is a classic Southern staple, and Dolly’s new cookware from Dollar General will make it easy to prepare a delicious and satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
* 8 cups chicken broth
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
* Salt and pepper to taste
**For the Dumplings:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup milk
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Chicken:** Place the whole chicken in a large pot or Dutch oven (from Dolly’s cookware line!). Add the chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the meat is falling off the bone. Make sure the pot is large enough for all the ingredients – using a pot from Dolly’s collection will ensure you have ample space.
2. **Remove and Shred the Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones. Set the shredded chicken aside.
3. **Strain the Broth:** Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the vegetables. Return the broth to the pot.
4. **Prepare the Dumplings:** In a large mixing bowl (using Dolly’s mixing bowls, of course!), whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and melted butter. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. **Cook the Dumplings:** Bring the broth to a simmer. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot. Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
6. **Add the Chicken:** Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot. Heat through.
7. **Serve:** Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Rotisserie Chicken:** For a quicker version, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking a whole chicken. Simply shred the meat and add it to the broth.
* **Add Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as potatoes, peas, or green beans.
* **Thicken the Broth:** If you prefer a thicker broth, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the simmering broth.
* **Make Drop Dumplings:** For a simpler version of dumplings, use a drop dumpling recipe instead of the rolled dumpling recipe. Drop dumplings are made by simply dropping spoonfuls of batter into the simmering broth.
Recipe 3: Sweet and Savory Cornbread
Cornbread is a Southern classic that can be enjoyed as a side dish, a snack, or even a dessert. This recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Baking it in Dolly’s bakeware from Dollar General will add a touch of Southern charm to your table.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 cup yellow cornmeal
* 1/4 cup sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup milk
* 1/4 cup vegetable oil
* 1 egg, lightly beaten
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking pan (from Dolly’s line!). You can also use a cast-iron skillet for a more traditional cornbread.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl (Dolly’s mixing bowls!), whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg.
4. **Combine Wet and Dry:** Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix. A few lumps are okay.
5. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cornbread should be golden brown around the edges.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Let the cornbread cool slightly in the pan before cutting into squares and serving. Serve warm with butter, honey, or your favorite toppings.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Creamed Corn:** For a moist cornbread, add 1 can (14.75 ounces) of creamed corn to the batter.
* **Add Jalapeños and Cheese:** For a savory kick, add chopped jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese to the batter.
* **Use Different Cornmeal:** You can use white cornmeal instead of yellow cornmeal for a slightly different flavor and texture.
* **Add Bacon:** Crumbled cooked bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor to cornbread.
Recipe 4: Simple Fried Apples
Fried apples are a classic Southern side dish, often served with breakfast or as a dessert topping. They are easy to make and incredibly delicious. Dolly’s new cookware from Dollar General will make frying these apples a breeze.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
* 1/4 cup butter
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 cup water
* Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt Butter:** In a large skillet (Dolly’s cookware!), melt the butter over medium heat.
2. **Add Apples:** Add the sliced apples to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are slightly softened.
3. **Add Sugar and Spices:** Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. **Add Water:** Add the water to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. **Serve:** Serve the fried apples warm as a side dish or as a topping for ice cream, pancakes, or waffles.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Apples:** You can use different types of apples depending on your preference. Some good options include Gala, Fuji, and Braeburn.
* **Add Lemon Juice:** A squeeze of lemon juice adds a bright and tangy flavor to the fried apples.
* **Add Nuts:** Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch to the dish.
* **Add Caramel Sauce:** Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra decadent treat.
Recipe 5: Classic Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a universally loved comfort food, and this classic recipe is sure to please. Using Dolly’s new cookware and utensils from Dollar General will make preparing this dish a joy.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound elbow macaroni
* 1/2 cup butter
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook Macaroni:** Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. **Make Roux:** In a large saucepan (Dolly’s cookware!), melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This is called a roux.
3. **Add Milk:** Gradually whisk in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. **Add Cheese and Seasonings:** Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. **Combine Macaroni and Sauce:** Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
6. **Serve:** Serve hot. You can bake this as well. Place Mac and Cheese in a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and bake in oven at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Cheese:** You can use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan, for a different flavor profile.
* **Add Breadcrumbs:** Top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy topping.
* **Add Vegetables:** Add steamed broccoli, cauliflower, or peas to the mac and cheese for added nutrients.
* **Add Bacon:** Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor to mac and cheese.
Caring for Your Dolly Parton Kitchenware
To ensure your new Dolly Parton kitchenware lasts for years to come, it’s important to care for it properly. Here are some general tips:
* **Read the Instructions:** Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and care.
* **Hand Washing:** Hand washing is generally recommended for cookware and bakeware, especially non-stick items. Use a mild dish soap and a non-abrasive sponge.
* **Avoid Harsh Chemicals:** Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the surface of your cookware.
* **Proper Storage:** Store your cookware in a dry place to prevent rust or corrosion. Use pot protectors to prevent scratching.
* **Check for Damage:** Regularly check your cookware for any signs of damage, such as scratches, dents, or warping. Replace damaged cookware as needed.
Conclusion: Embrace the Southern Kitchen with Dolly!
Dolly Parton’s new kitchen line at Dollar General offers an affordable and stylish way to bring a touch of Southern charm to your home cooking. These recipes are just a starting point – feel free to experiment and create your own delicious Southern-inspired dishes using Dolly’s new kitchen essentials. So, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite Dolly Parton tune, and get ready to whip up some unforgettable meals that will warm your heart and satisfy your soul! Happy cooking!