The Day After

No doubt there are millions of left over turkey sandwiches being made today.  Even though the world doesn't need another blog about a turkey sandwich, I write this post as a tribute to tradition.  We love our day after sandwiches so much that we roast an extra turkey to be sure there is plenty left over.  I don't want to be the one stuck with scraping meat crumbs off the carcass trying to assemble one last sandwich to satisfy an addiction.  I want nice full slices of white breast meat.  And yes, I need this sandwich like a turbo shopper needs black Friday.  While the shoppers scramble for deals, I sit comfortably on my couch eating the perfect sandwich.

The sandwich I call "The Day After" is simple and pure.  It's one sandwich that doesn't need to be molested by a foodie trying to jazz it up. 

Southern Soul Cornbread & Rice Dressing

Of all the flavors that Thanksgiving dinner brings, Mom's cornbread dressing is the one I look forward to the most.  It's a southern dish taught by her great Aunt DeVerde & Auntie Carl from Ville Platte, LA.  It has some of my favorite things in it which explains part of the appeal too me.  Cornbread, rice, parsley, eggs, onion, and turkey stock make up the base dish.  However, the signature ingredient that gives this dish its real identity is the heart & soul of those that make it.  It's a dish that takes a lot of time to prepare.  Making dressing at the kitchen table, with family and friends the night before Thanksgiving is what truly makes the dressing special.

The Line Up for a double recipe

As a little girl, mom learned Big Momma's recipe known as "The Dressing" from her great Aunts.  The sisters would drink some coke & moonshine and argue as to whether or not the right amount of rice, or parsley, or onion was mixed in.  Two southern ladies razzing each other on cooking, parenting, and housekeeping skills.  It was a kitchen filled with southern personality.  By the evenings end and the smack talking over, the dressing was ready.