The beginning of each season has a distinct feel. Fall ushers in the sight of crisp uniforms, kids in clean new sneakers, busy streets, the promise of cooler temps (maybe) and perhaps most distinctly: football season. Whether you cheer for the Black & Gold, Tigers, the Green Wave or in my case, Bulldogs (Go Dawgs!), we can all agree that tailgating is a crucial part of the autumnal experience. Though I struggle to sit in front of the TV for three hours any given Saturday or Sunday, I love a tailgating themed get together. While most authentic when centered around an actual game, really one could host such a gathering any time. Casual entertaining is my favorite. You don’t need to get caught up in formalities or even numbers. Local favorites translate well into feeding a crowd. Jambalaya, gumbo, etouffee, fried chicken, smoked ribs, po-boys, anything off the grill. Pair with a hearty appetizer such as a seven-layer dip or pickled shrimp. Make a favorite dessert such as chocolate chip cookies or my college roommate’s family recipe: Edith’s Bars. Sit back and enjoy the game, wherever your loyalties lie.
Keep these in your pantry for easy and elevated cocktail mixing. Camp Craft Cocktail Mixers, Home Malone, homemalonenola.com.
If the game gets heated and dishes go flying, this shatterproof sandwich platter will survive. Melamine Ruffled Sandwich Platter, Jade Nola, jadenola.com.
This casserole dish is ready for primetime with its chic wicker sleeve. Oval Baker, Judy at the Rink, judyattherink.com.
Edith’s Bars
2.5 sleeves of graham crackers
1 stick of salted butter
1 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk
½ a bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ a bag of white chocolate chips
1.5 c of toffee chips
Line a 9×13 casserole dish with parchment or foil. Crumble graham crackers to breadcrumb consistency using either a food processor or pounding crackers within a Ziploc bag. Melt butter and combine with graham cracker crumbs and pat evenly in casserole dish to form a crust. Spread condensed milk across the crust. Sprinkle chips evenly across the dish. Bake at 350 for 15-20 minutes until set. Cool completely, cut into squares and store in the fridge until ready to serve.
With 6 vibrant colors available, this swirled resin serving bowl can also carry the team spirit. Remy Serving Bowl, Sotre, sotrecollection.com.
