We are missing the delicious cuisine served at the Blue Palmetto Cafe. With a little coercion, we were able to convince Chef Matt to share some of his most popular recipes for you to enjoy at home. This blog will be the first in a series of tips from Chef Matt Fulwood’s kitchen to you at home!
Are you stuck at home and tired of the same old flavors? I have a simple solution to “up the flavor” and make your proteins tasty! The secret is a simple marinade.
Marinades need three key components.
1. Oil – this helps keep the protein from sticking and also distributing fat-soluble flavors (best oil to use would be canola, grapeseed, or any neutral oil)
2. Acid – this helps break down the connective tissues in the protein, therefore, creating a more tender result (examples include soy sauce, vinegar, or citrus juice).
3. Flavor – this is where you can be creative. Try something simple like roasted red bell pepper or fresh herbs or leftover wine (which also acts as an acid). Marinate no less than 30 minutes; however, overnight is better.
Before grilling any meat, I recommend patting any excess marinade off to reduce flare-ups. Another simple marinade you may already have in your pantry is bottled Italian dressing. It has all three components and adds great flavor to chicken!
Have you ever wondered what to do with leftover grilled? Here are a few options; Chop it up and put it on a quesadilla. Chop it up and add it to a soup. Chop it up and turn it into a chicken salad and throw it on a croissant, it may make you feel like you are at the Blue Palmetto Café!
Here is the recipe for the World Famous Chicken Salad served at the Blue Palmetto Café.
1lb diced chicken (be sure to marinate using the tips above)
4 oz dried cranberries
1 oz sugar
1 tbsp hot sauce
1.5 cups mayonnaise
3 stalks celery, diced small
¼ cup red onion, diced
Mix all ingredients and enjoy!