The Kentucky Hot Brown is a legendary open-faced sandwich that originated in Louisville, Kentucky. Rich, creamy, and flavorful, this Southern classic features roasted turkey, crispy bacon, and a smooth Mornay sauce broiled to golden perfection. Whether you’re a fan of American comfort food or exploring regional cuisines, the Hot Brown is a must-try dish.
History of the Hot Brown
The Hot Brown was first created in 1926 at the Brown Hotel in Louisville by Chef Fred Schmidt. Looking for an alternative to the traditional ham and eggs served late at night, he crafted a warm, open-faced turkey sandwich covered in Mornay sauce and baked until bubbly. The Hot Brown quickly became a local favorite and remains a signature dish of Louisville to this day.
What’s in a Kentucky Hot Brown?
The classic Hot Brown is made using the following ingredients:
- Thick slices of roasted turkey breast
- Texas toast or white bread as a base
- Homemade Mornay sauce (a creamy cheese sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and Pecorino Romano or Parmesan)
- Tomato slices (optional but traditional)
- Crispy bacon strips
- Freshly grated cheese for topping
How to Make the Original Hot Brown at Home
Making this sandwich at home is easier than you might think. Here's a basic overview adapted from the original Hot Brown recipe on AllRecipes:
- Preheat your oven broiler.
- Start by preparing a rich Mornay sauce using butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheese.
- Toast bread slices and place them in an oven-safe dish. Top each slice with sliced turkey breast.
- Pour the Mornay sauce generously over the turkey and toast.
- Add tomato slices if desired, then sprinkle more cheese on top.
- Broil until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Top with crispy bacon strips and a sprinkle of paprika or parsley before serving.
For a full step-by-step homemade recipe with visuals, you can check out House of Nash Eats’ version of the Kentucky Hot Brown.
Why the Hot Brown Is More Than Just a Sandwich
The Kentucky Hot Brown is more than just a sandwich—it’s a symbol of Louisville’s hospitality and Southern culinary tradition. It’s a hearty, decadent meal often served during Derby season or special gatherings, but simple enough to prepare for a family dinner or brunch.
FAQs
What is a Kentucky Hot Brown?
The Kentucky Hot Brown is an open-faced sandwich made with roasted turkey, Mornay cheese sauce, tomatoes, and crispy bacon, then baked or broiled until golden and bubbly. It originated at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky in 1926.
Who invented the Hot Brown sandwich?
The Hot Brown was created by Chef Fred Schmidt at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. He introduced it as a late-night alternative to ham and eggs for hotel guests.
What is Mornay sauce?
Mornay sauce is a creamy white cheese sauce made from a roux of butter and flour, mixed with milk and shredded cheese, typically Pecorino Romano or Parmesan.
Can I make a Hot Brown without bacon?
Yes, you can make a Hot Brown without bacon for a lighter or vegetarian version. However, crispy bacon adds a signature salty crunch that balances the creamy sauce and turkey.
Is the Hot Brown served hot or cold?
The Hot Brown is always served hot, straight from the broiler. The cheese should be melted and slightly golden on top, and the sandwich is meant to be enjoyed warm.
What type of bread is best for a Hot Brown?
Thick-sliced white bread or Texas toast is commonly used. The bread is toasted before assembling to keep it from becoming soggy under the sauce.
Is the Kentucky Hot Brown related to the Kentucky Derby?
While not directly related, the Hot Brown is often associated with the Kentucky Derby as it's a popular dish served during Derby season in Louisville.
একটি মন্তব্য পোস্ট করুন