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7 March Madness Recipes For University Of Kentucky Fans To Devour While Cheering On The Wildcats
As we move further along in March Madness, card-carrying members of the Big Blue Nation are gearing up for the upcoming game against West Virginia University. For many, that means dyeing their hair blue and donning all of their University of Kentucky attire. But for foodie fans, that means preparing a platter of University of Kentucky-themed March Madness recipes for the big game.
Now I know what you're thinking. Wouldn't it be easier to whip up some regular March Madness snacks and call it a day? Of course, but that's no way to show support for the Wildcats. Not to mention that Kentucky food isn't all that complicated to create. The state's cuisine consists of many southern staples, as well as its own specialties, like Derby Pie and Louisville chili (just don't mention that around a Wildcat fan).
Sounds delicious right? Well that's not all. Here are seven Kentucky-inspired dishes to serve as you watch the Wildcats work their way through the March Madness tournament. From savory starters to sweet treats, there are plenty of options that are sure to please any University of Kentucky fan.
Image: Howard Walfish
Beer Cheese Dip
Get the game started with a big bowl of beer cheese and chips. Though there are plenty of recipes out there, A Spicy Perspective’s only requires three ingredients. It doesn’t get easier than that.
Image and recipe: A Spicy Perspective
Blue Velvet Cake
A blue velvet cake shows some serious Wildcat pride, but this isn’t your typical dessert dye job. Adventures In Cooking adds blueberries to her confection for some extra color and flavor.
Image and recipe: Adventures In Cooking
Fried Chicken and Creamy Coleslaw Sandwich
Like any southern state, Kentucky lives off of fried chicken. Instead of serving a platter of thighs, turn this classic comfort food into Simply Delicious Food’s flavorful chicken sandwich.
Image and recipe: Simply Delicious Food
Cincinnati Chili
Don’t let the name confuse you. Despite this chili’s Ohio origins, it is found in households across Kentucky. But to make it truly authentic, take a note from The Kitchn and serve it atop a bowl of spaghetti.
Image and recipe: The Kitchn
Corn Cakes with Sauteed Shrimp & Tequila-Lime Cream Sauce
Although you can easily eat a Johnny cake by itself, it’s better with toppings. Cooking For Keeps takes this Kentucky treat to another level by adding shrimp and a tequila sauce. Sounds delicious, right?
Image and recipe: Cooking For Keeps
Classic Mint Juleps
You can’t watch a game without libations. As the cocktail of Kentucky (or, more accurately, the Kentucky Derby), Joy the Baker’s mint julep is the perfect drink to serve to your fellow Wildcat fans.
Image and recipe: Joy the Baker
Kentucky Derby Pie Bars
Chocolate and bourbon. Need I say more? This pecan-filled pie is a staple at any Kentucky celebration, but Half Baked Harvest gives the decadent dessert an easy-to-eat twist by turning it into a bite-sized bar.
Image and recipe: Half Baked Harvest
