Welcome back! In our latest podcast episode, we take you on a delectable journey through the heart of Southern cooking with none other than Brooke Burks, the culinary genius behind The Buttered Home. This episode is a treasure of stories, family recipes, and cooking tips that will inspire both novice and seasoned cooks alike.

Brooke Burks wasn't always a culinary star. Her journey began as a mother approaching the empty nested season without her own hobbies, but with the encouragement of family and friends, she found her passion for cooking and transformed it into a thriving platform. The Buttered Home started as a simple food blog and has now blossomed into a beloved resource for Southern recipes and cooking tutorials. Brooke's story is one of transformation, fueled by the love and influence of her Aunt Peggy, mother, and grandmother.

In this episode, Brooke shares heartwarming tales from her front porch studio about the pivotal role her family played in her culinary journey. She emphasizes the importance of preserving family recipes, which are often laden with powerful memories, especially during the holidays. Brooke's narrative is not just about food; it's about family, community, and the traditions that bind us together.

Brooke delves into the joys and occasional hiccups of home cooking. She candidly discusses the anxiety of cooking for a live online audience and the fear of unexpected mishaps, like cussing on camera. Despite these challenges, Brooke's passion for diversified recipes shines through. Whether you're looking for low-carb options or sugar-laden treats, The Buttered Home has something for everyone. One of her favorite go-to dishes is homemade biscuits, a versatile staple in Southern cuisine. She also shares nostalgic memories associated with her beloved Lemon Cherry Cheesecake Pie, a dessert that holds a special place in her heart.

A significant part of Brooke's culinary journey involves mastering the Instant Pot. This kitchen gadget revolutionized her cooking methods, especially for busy moms juggling multiple roles. From perfecting rice to boiling eggs, the Instant Pot has been a game-changer for Brooke. She reminisces about the pre-Instant Pot days and the friendly competition of Supper Club, highlighting how this tool has made home cooking more accessible and efficient.

Brooke's story is not just about cooking; it's about teaching and building a community. She explores the nuances of Southern culinary traditions and the critical role of quality ingredients. From the quirky charm of chocolate gravy for biscuits to the cultural importance of food as an act of love, Brooke covers it all. She also shares her future plans for online cooking classes, emphasizing the importance of preserving culinary traditions through storytelling.

The essence of Southern hospitality is deeply woven into Brooke's narrative. Growing up in a small town, she learned the importance of food as an act of love, service, and fellowship. Brooke cherishes the tradition of sharing meals during significant life events and reflects on the importance of focusing on our own responsibilities, illustrated by the saying, "mind your biscuits."

In the final moments of the episode, Brooke delves into the quirks of kitchen lore, such as the challenges of making divinity and meringue under different weather conditions. She emphasizes that even imperfect dishes retain their delicious taste. Brooke also highlights the best platforms to follow The Buttered Home, including their website, Facebook, and YouTube channels, where you can find detailed tutorials and engaging content.

This episode is a heartfelt celebration of Southern cuisine and the family traditions that shape it. Brooke Burks invites you to join her on this culinary journey, offering a wealth of knowledge, inspiration, and love for Southern cooking. Follow The Buttered Home for more recipes, cooking tips, and stories that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of the South.

Tune in to this episode on your favorite listening platform to immerse yourself in the flavors, stories, and traditions that make Southern cooking so special. Happy cooking, y'all!