Introduction
The air crackles with excitement, the thunder of hooves echoes in the distance, and the vibrant yellow of Black-Eyed Susans paint the landscape. It can only mean one thing: the Preakness Stakes! But the Preakness is more than just a thrilling horse race; it’s a celebration of Maryland, a nod to tradition, and a delightful excuse to indulge in some seriously delicious food. The second jewel in the Triple Crown, this Baltimore-based event draws crowds from across the country, all eager to witness history in the making and partake in the festivities.
For many, the Preakness is synonymous with certain culinary delights. The salty tang of crab, the rich aroma of slow-cooked meats, and the sweet allure of Berger Cookies are all integral parts of the Preakness experience. But beyond the traditional staples, there’s a world of Preakness food recipes waiting to be explored, offering something for every palate and party style. Whether you’re hosting a grand celebration or a small gathering of friends, the food you serve can elevate the entire experience, transforming a simple viewing party into a memorable event.
This article will guide you through a winning menu of Preakness food recipes, from the iconic Maryland classics that define the occasion to modern twists that will surprise and delight your guests. We’ll explore appetizers, main courses, desserts, and of course, the official drink of the Preakness, ensuring your celebration is a true winner. So, dust off your racing silks, gather your friends, and get ready to dive into the delicious world of Preakness food recipes!
The Classics: Maryland Staples
No Preakness celebration is complete without paying homage to the culinary traditions of Maryland. The state’s rich seafood heritage and unique flavors are at the heart of the Preakness experience, and these classic dishes are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Maryland Crab Cakes: A Taste of the Bay
Crab cakes are practically synonymous with Maryland, and for good reason. The state’s abundant blue crab population has long been a source of culinary inspiration, and the crab cake has become a beloved symbol of Maryland cuisine. These succulent patties, bursting with sweet crabmeat and delicate spices, are a must-have for any Preakness gathering.
To make truly authentic Maryland crab cakes, you’ll need the following:
- One pound jumbo lump crab meat, picked clean of shells
- One-quarter cup mayonnaise
- One tablespoon Dijon mustard
- One teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- One-quarter cup bread crumbs (panko or crushed saltines work well)
- One tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- One tablespoon lemon juice
- One egg, lightly beaten
- Butter or oil for frying
Gently combine all ingredients in a bowl, being careful not to overmix. Form the mixture into patties. Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the crab cakes for approximately four to five minutes per side, until golden brown and heated through. Serve immediately with remoulade sauce or on toasted brioche buns for a delightful crab cake sandwich. The key to a truly exceptional crab cake is using high-quality jumbo lump crab meat and minimizing the filler. Let the crab flavor shine!
Maryland Crab Soup: Two Delicious Variations
Maryland Crab Soup comes in two styles: Cream of Crab and Maryland Vegetable Crab soup. Both are delicious in their own right, and provide a filling, hot, and delicious meal to any Preakness party. Cream of Crab is rich, creamy, and decadent. Maryland Vegetable Crab soup is tomato-based with lots of chunky vegetables and is light and very filling.
Ingredients for Maryland Vegetable Crab Soup:
- One tablespoon olive oil
- One onion, chopped
- Two carrots, chopped
- Two celery stalks, chopped
- One green bell pepper, chopped
- Four cloves garlic, minced
- Eight cups vegetable broth
- One can (ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- One pound potatoes, peeled and cubed
- One can (ounces) cut green beans, drained
- One cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
- One pound jumbo lump crab meat, picked clean of shells
- Two tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
- One tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and green bell pepper and cook until softened, about five to seven minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes, potatoes, green beans, and corn. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about fifteen to twenty minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Gently stir in the crab meat, Old Bay seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through, being careful not to overcook the crab.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This hearty and flavorful soup is the perfect complement to a day at the races.
Pit Beef: A Baltimore Barbecue Tradition
While crab often takes center stage, Pit Beef is a true Baltimore delicacy and a must-try for any meat lover. Pit Beef refers to beef that is grilled over a charcoal pit, giving it a distinct smoky flavor. This delicious barbecue is a quintessential Baltimore food.
To make Pit Beef, you will need:
- Beef roast
- Coarse salt
- Black pepper
- Onions
- Rolls
- Horseradish
Instructions:
- Season the beef with lots of coarse salt and pepper.
- Grill over the pit to your liking (it will be rare in the middle).
- Thinly slice the beef.
- Place on rolls with sliced onions and horseradish.
Preakness Party Appetizers & Snacks
While the main course is important, appetizers and snacks are the unsung heroes of any party. They keep your guests satisfied while they mingle and anticipate the main event. These Preakness food recipes are easy to prepare and perfect for grazing.
Black-Eyed Susan Dip: A Floral Delight
Named after the official flower of the Preakness Stakes, the Black-Eyed Susan Dip is a visually appealing and flavorful appetizer that will add a touch of elegance to your party. The goal is to create a dip that incorporates vibrant yellow and orange hues, reminiscent of the flower itself.
Here’s a recipe for a creamy, cheesy Black-Eyed Susan Dip:
- Eight ounces cream cheese, softened
- One cup shredded cheddar cheese
- One-half cup mayonnaise
- One-quarter cup chopped yellow bell pepper
- One-quarter cup chopped green onions
- One tablespoon Dijon mustard
- One teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Tortilla chips, vegetables, or pretzels for serving
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until well combined. Chill for at least thirty minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, or pretzels for a colorful and delicious appetizer.
Deviled Eggs with Old Bay: A Classic with a Maryland Twist
Deviled eggs are a party staple for a reason: they’re easy to make, always a crowd-pleaser, and incredibly versatile. Adding Old Bay seasoning to the classic recipe elevates this appetizer with a distinct Maryland flavor.
Simply prepare your favorite deviled egg recipe and sprinkle a generous amount of Old Bay seasoning on top before serving. The salty, savory spice blend adds a unique kick that will have your guests coming back for more.
Mini Ham Biscuits: Bite-Sized Bliss
These mini ham biscuits are the perfect bite-sized treat for any Preakness gathering. They’re quick and easy to make, especially if you use pre-made biscuits, and the combination of salty ham and flaky biscuit is simply irresistible.
Simply slice cooked ham into small pieces and insert between a biscuit for a bite-sized, salty, and savory appetizer.
Main Course Options
While appetizers and snacks are important, the main course is where you can really impress your guests. These Preakness food recipes offer a variety of options, from hearty and satisfying to slightly more elegant.
Preakness Pulled Pork Sliders: Slow-Cooked Perfection
Pulled pork sliders are a fantastic option for a Preakness party. They’re hearty, satisfying, and can be easily prepared in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, freeing you up to focus on other aspects of the party.
Slow-cook a pork shoulder with your favorite barbecue sauce until it’s fall-apart tender. Shred the pork and serve it on mini brioche buns with coleslaw for a classic pulled pork slider. Consider using a Maryland-style barbecue sauce, which is typically sweeter and tangier than other regional variations.
Chicken Chesapeake: A Creamy Crab Delight
Chicken Chesapeake is an entree for a slightly fancier Preakness party. The creamy crab topping makes it decadent and rich, and will please many party goers.
Ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Maryland crab imperial
- Old Bay seasoning
- Butter
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions:
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning.
- Grill or bake chicken to degrees.
- Top chicken with Maryland crab imperial and bake until golden brown.
The Official Drink: The Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail
No Preakness celebration is complete without the official drink of the race: the Black-Eyed Susan cocktail. This refreshing and fruity concoction is the perfect complement to a day at the races.
The Official Preakness Cocktail Recipe: A Taste of Victory
The traditional recipe for the Black-Eyed Susan cocktail includes:
- One and a half ounces vodka
- One-half ounce St. Germain elderflower liqueur
- Two ounces pineapple juice
- One-half ounce lime juice
- One-half ounce orange juice
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry for a festive touch.
Black-Eyed Susan Variations: Customize Your Cocktail
While the traditional recipe is delicious, feel free to experiment with variations to suit your taste. Try using rum instead of vodka for a slightly sweeter flavor, or add a splash of grenadine for a vibrant red hue. For a non-alcoholic mocktail, simply combine pineapple juice, orange juice, lime juice, and a splash of ginger ale.
Dessert
The day isn’t complete without dessert! There are lots of things you can make for dessert, but nothing is better than the Maryland state dessert!
Smith Island Cake
The Smith Island Cake is the state dessert of Maryland. This cake is traditionally made with many thin layers separated by frosting. Typically, it is chocolate, but you can make it with whatever you prefer.
Berger Cookies
Berger Cookies are a Baltimore staple, known for their rich chocolate ganache. The buttery cookie topped with chocolate is the perfect way to end a Preakness party.
Tips for a Successful Preakness Party
Hosting a successful Preakness party requires a bit of planning and preparation. Here are a few tips to ensure your event is a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Planning Ahead: Preparation is Key
Create a timeline for your party, outlining what needs to be done in advance. Consider the dietary restrictions of your guests and plan your menu accordingly. Prep ingredients in advance to save time on the day of the party.
Decorations and Ambiance: Set the Scene
Incorporate Black-Eyed Susan flowers into your decorations to create a festive atmosphere. Use racing-themed decorations, such as checkered flags and miniature horses, to enhance the theme. Create a playlist of upbeat music to set the mood.
Entertainment: Keep Guests Engaged
Set up a betting pool or game to add some excitement to the race. Have a TV ready to watch the race.
Conclusion
From classic Maryland crab cakes to refreshing Black-Eyed Susan cocktails, these Preakness food recipes offer a delicious way to celebrate the race and create lasting memories with friends and family. So, gather your ingredients, dust off your racing silks, and get ready to host a winning Preakness party! With these recipes and a little planning, you’re well on your way to hosting a Preakness celebration that’s a winner in every way! Enjoy the race, the company, and of course, the delicious food!
