Mac and cheese, fried chicken, mashed potatoes…is your mouth watering yet? While everyone has their own personal comfort food, the south takes the cake when it comes to producing some of the most indulgent dishes that help us instantly unwind.
At Camp CHOP, kids and teens can learn all about cooking comfort meals, including some traditional Virginia food that we love. Here are a few of our best-loved southern comfort recipes that your child may make at culinary summer camp.
1. Creamy Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is (arguably) one of the simplest comfort meals to make. The combination of macaroni, cheese, and milk is instantly crave-worthy, and any added ingredients only add extra delicious dimensions to the meal. However, this simple dish has a long and interesting history.
Eater explains that while this meal has many differentiations, what makes the southern comfort food classic stand out is its simplicity. The use of a few key ingredients and spices makes a masterpiece that is like comfort in a bowl, and the lesson that sometimes less is more is something students at Camp CHOP will learn during their stay.
2. Chicken & Waffles
As you’ll see, most southern comfort food is a combination of two delicious things. Chicken and waffles is no different! This mouthwatering meal takes everything you love about a waffle that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside paired with perfectly fried chicken. While the concept sounds simple, it helps kids learn about baking and cooking. They can also have a lot of fun when it comes to flavors – want a savory waffle instead? Add in herbs and cheese. For some spice, add hot sauce to the fried chicken or make your own hot honey or maple syrup with a kick.
3. Virginia Crab Cakes
When you think of traditional Virginia food we bet crab cakes come to mind. That’s because blue crabs are a delicacy in the state, especially close to the coast. Lump crab, fried crab cakes, crab sandwich…this crustacean is surprisingly versatile and makes for a delicious dish.
Located in Virginia, Camp CHOP knows this comfort meal well and when the opportunity arises, helps campers learn how to transform soft shell crabs into a fantastic feast.
4. Pork Ribs
Ribs are by far one of the messiest comfort foods the south is known for, but it’s totally worth the clean-up to try the fall-off-the-bone meat. Pork ribs are popular in Virginia, especially close to the Appalachians. Cooked low and slow, BBQ pork ribs are a delectable treat that kids at Camp CHOP may get the chance to make. And of course, we can’t forget about the sides! You can’t go wrong with slow-simmered baked beans and collard greens or skip right to dessert with homemade banana pudding.
Hungry yet? Camp CHOP is reopening for the 2022 season and it’s never too early to register your child. Contact the team today for more information on Camp CHOP’s programs and registration for 2022.