It's the most wonderful month of the year. I call May my most beloved of the twelve for many reasons: my birthday, Mother's Day brunch, family and girlfriend reunions, Memphis in May moments, Barbecue Fest. But also, I simply love May because of the refreshing spirit that fills each of us with an urge to be outdoors, enjoy our surroundings, and be.
My excitement for May began earlier in the week when my roommate and I spontaneously planned a Kentucky Derby brunch for tomorrow. I've put on my hostess hat (though it's not as extravagant as the hats you'll see at the races) and conceptualized a menu that's easy yet classy. Here's what we're planning to serve so far:
- Bloody Mary bar
- Mint Juleps (heavy on the bourbon)
- Mimosas
- Eggs Benedict
- Mini cucumber and goat cheese sandwiches
- Mini corned beef and pastrami sandwiches
- Veggie frittata
- Pimento cheese and various dips
- Mini bourbon pecan pies
I learned the most fabulous approach to the intimidating poached egg for a Benedict, thanks to a Today Show article online. You can poach 12 eggs at once using a muffin pan! Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Pour 1 tablespoon of water in each cup of a muffin pan and then gently crack the eggs into the cups. Bake for 13-15 minutes, until the whites are set but the yolks are runny. Using a small slotted spoon, transfer the eggs to English muffins or biscuits.
I'll be back next week with photos! Off to the races. It's time to Derby.
