As 2023 comes to a close, it’s time to savor the highlights of the year’s best recipes from Under A Tin Roof. This year, the focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and sustainable living took center stage. Whether it was crafting the perfect sourdough loaf, indulging in homemade ice cream, or preparing slow-cooked, farm-to-table meals, these recipes brought the heart of homesteading into the kitchen. Let’s dive into the top 20 most popular recipes that captured the attention (and taste buds) of home cooks around the globe.
Fresh-from-the-Farm Sourdough Bread
Sourdough continued its reign in 2023 as one of the most popular baking projects for home bakers. Under A Tin Roof’s recipe for Fresh-from-the-Farm Sourdough Bread provided easy, step-by-step instructions to create a perfectly tangy, crusty loaf with just flour, water, and time. This recipe is a must-try for both beginners and seasoned bread-makers.
Hearty Harvest Vegetable Soup
Packed with fall’s bounty, the Hearty Harvest Vegetable Soup became a favorite as the colder months rolled in. Featuring root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and turnips, along with fresh herbs and a rich broth, this recipe offered a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for chilly evenings.
Sweet & Spicy Pickled Carrots
Preserving seasonal produce was a popular trend this year, and Sweet & Spicy Pickled Carrots were a hit. These crunchy, tangy carrots were the ideal accompaniment to sandwiches, salads, and charcuterie boards. Plus, they made for great gifts, adding a homemade touch to any occasion.
Homestead Cinnamon Rolls
There’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. The Homestead Cinnamon Rolls recipe, made with a soft dough, rich cinnamon filling, and a generous drizzle of cream cheese frosting, became a breakfast favorite for many. These rolls were not only delicious but also made with pantry staples—ideal for any cozy morning.
Lavender Honey Ice Cream
This summer, Lavender Honey Ice Cream brought a sweet, floral note to the dessert table. With its creamy texture and unique flavor combination of lavender blossoms and locally sourced honey, this recipe stood out as a sophisticated yet simple treat for warm weather gatherings.
Farmhouse Tomato Galette
Tomato season is a highlight of summer, and the Farmhouse Tomato Galette showcased the vibrant flavors of freshly picked heirloom tomatoes. Paired with a buttery, flaky crust and a light herbed cheese spread, this savory galette was an elegant yet rustic way to celebrate the season’s harvest.
Rustic Chicken Pot Pie
A comfort food classic, the Rustic Chicken Pot Pie became a staple in many households this year. With its golden, flaky pastry and a hearty filling of slow-cooked chicken, potatoes, peas, and carrots, this dish offered a warm, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
Wildflower Lemon Bars
For those with a sweet tooth, Wildflower Lemon Bars were a 2023 favorite. Bursting with zesty lemon flavor and a delicate wildflower infusion, these bars brought a refreshing twist to the traditional lemon dessert. They were ideal for potlucks, picnics, or just a simple afternoon treat.
Maple Glazed Pork Chops
Farm-to-table dinners were big in 2023, and Maple Glazed Pork Chops became a standout recipe. The sweet, caramelized maple glaze perfectly complemented the savory, juicy pork chops, making this dish a crowd-pleaser at both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Herb-Crusted Roast Lamb
Celebrating spring’s bounty, the Herb-Crusted Roast Lamb recipe was a star at Easter feasts and other special gatherings. Coated in fresh rosemary, thyme, and garlic, the lamb was roasted to perfection, creating a tender, flavorful main dish that paired beautifully with seasonal vegetables.
Butternut Squash & Sage Risotto
Autumn wouldn’t be complete without cozy, comforting meals like Butternut Squash & Sage Risotto. This creamy, rich dish combined sweet roasted squash with earthy sage, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The recipe was easy to follow, yet sophisticated enough to impress at any dinner party.
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
As mornings got chillier, the warm, comforting Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal recipe became a go-to breakfast. Made with farm-fresh apples, hearty oats, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, this make-ahead dish provided a wholesome, satisfying start to the day.
Dandelion Fritters
Turning foraged ingredients into delicious bites was a trend that gained traction in 2023. Dandelion Fritters were a unique and delightful snack, offering a crispy, golden exterior with the subtle bitterness of dandelions balanced by a light honey drizzle.
Farm Fresh Egg Salad
Simple yet satisfying, the Farm Fresh Egg Salad recipe turned humble ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish. Using freshly gathered eggs, homemade mayonnaise, and garden-fresh herbs, this classic salad became a versatile option for lunches, picnics, and more.
Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Salad
This vibrant Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Salad was not only visually stunning but also packed with earthy and tangy flavors. The sweetness of the roasted beets paired perfectly with the creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts, making it a standout side or light lunch.
Classic Sauerkraut
Fermentation made a strong comeback in 2023, and Classic Sauerkraut was one of the year’s top picks for probiotic-rich, gut-healthy foods. This simple recipe, using just cabbage and salt, highlighted the tradition of fermenting as a way to preserve seasonal vegetables while enhancing their nutritional benefits.
Elderberry Syrup
As wellness trends continued to grow, so did the popularity of Elderberry Syrup for its immune-boosting properties. This syrup, made from foraged elderberries, honey, and spices, was not only medicinal but also delicious when drizzled over pancakes or stirred into tea.
Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread
No homestead meal is complete without Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread. This recipe created a golden, crispy crust with a soft, tender inside, making it the perfect accompaniment to soups, stews, and chili. It was a simple, rustic staple that brought warmth to any table.
Lemon Verbena Shortbread Cookies
Herb-infused desserts made waves this year, and Lemon Verbena Shortbread Cookies became a star. Delicate, buttery, and with a hint of citrusy lemon verbena, these cookies offered a delightful balance of sweetness and herbaceousness, making them perfect for afternoon tea or dessert.
Pumpkin & Sage Stuffed Shells
Autumn’s flavors were beautifully captured in the Pumpkin & Sage Stuffed Shells recipe. Creamy pumpkin, ricotta, and savory sage filled tender pasta shells, all baked to bubbly perfection in a luscious sauce. This comforting dish was a favorite during the fall months, offering a seasonal twist on a classic Italian recipe.
These 20 recipes defined 2023 for Under A Tin Roof, showcasing the best of homestead living, fresh ingredients, and farm-to-table meals. From comforting soups and breads to elegant desserts, these recipes will surely inspire more delicious creations in the kitchen as we move into the new year.