Every year on the first Saturday in May, the most anticipated horse race in the U.S. takes place in Louisville, Kentucky. People come from all over the country to watch and bet on the race, and just as important is the pageantry that comes along with it. From the old-fashioned Southern couture to indulgent Derby Pie to hearty renditions of “My Old Kentucky Home,” the Derby is a sight to behold.
If you can’t make it to Louisville, why not host a Kentucky Derby party? We gathered some Derby-inspired recipes to bring the excitement of the “Run for the Roses” to your own home.
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Kentucky Hot Brown:The legendary Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich is a Louisville staple. This version uses slightly stale La Brea Bakery Sourdough Loaf, a creamy, cheesy Mornay sauce, bacon, and tomatoes for a casserole-style Hot Brown that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. |
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Pulled Chicken Salad with Baby Spinach:Make a large batch of this delicious salad featuring goat cheese, crunchy apple, a flavorful bacon vinaigrette, and croutons made from La Brea Bakery Cranberry Walnut Loaf! |
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Derby Pie:Serve this decadent dessert, made with chocolate, pecans, bourbon, and vanilla extract, and typically associated with the Kentucky Derby, alongside ice cream and/or whipped cream. |
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Classic Mint Julep:With just three ingredients, you can make a Mint Julep just like the experts at the Kentucky Derby. For extra style, serve in traditional julep cups! |
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Dill Paloma Cocktail:Perfect for warmer weather, this grapefruit soda, lime, and tequila cocktail is a refreshing way to enjoy the Derby at home. |
Derby Traditions to Incorporate into Your Party:
- Encourage your guests to wear extravagant hats and stylish bow ties.
- Decorate with the Derby colors of black, gold, and red.
- Incorporate roses, the official Derby flower, into your decor.
- Live-stream the race on a big-screen TV.
- Include betting and fun prizes at your party.
Share Your Derby Day Pics with Us!
We would love to see how your Kentucky Derby get-together turned out — share your pics on our Facebook or Instagram, and be sure to use #LaBreaBakery.
