It’s Tailgate Time in Tennessee

bigslate on August 14, 2024

As the summer sun sets, the crisp fall air signals the return of football season in Tennessee, bringing with it the beloved tailgate traditions that our team cherishes. We’ve compiled your essential tailgate guide, from setup to food, ensuring your game day is memorable, DPM-style!

Dry Rub Wings

Kicking off with a crowd favorite, Neal’s wings are a must-have at any tailgate. These wings are not just delicious—they’re easy to prepare, perfect for fueling up the crowd for game day festivities.

A Note from Neal: “I opt for a minimal prep approach to keep things simple yet tasty. Start by generously seasoning the wings with your favorite dry rub—I’m partial to Spiceology and Reload brands for that extra kick.”

Cooking Instructions:

  • Place the wings on a pellet smoker at 180 degrees for 2 1/2 hours.
  • Ramp up the heat to 350 degrees and cook for an additional 45-60 minutes until the wings are browned and crispy on the outside but tender and juicy on the inside.

Buffalo Chicken Tortilla Roll Ups

No matter the game’s outcome, these Buffalo Chicken Tortilla Roll Ups are a guaranteed win. Pam swears by this recipe for its simplicity and crowd-pleasing flavors.

Prep Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 2 hours, 20 minutes Yields 35-40 rolls

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 8 ounces light cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup Buffalo wings sauce
  • ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 4 (6-inch) large flour tortillas
  • 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Preparation Instructions:

  1. Mix blue cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese in a bowl.
  2. Toss the chicken in Buffalo sauce.
  3. Spread a layer of the chicken and cheese mixture on a tortilla, reaching the edges.
  4. Roll tightly, ensuring the fillings are enclosed. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
  5. Chill the rolls in the fridge for 2 hours, then slice to your preferred thickness.
  6. Garnish with green onions.

Tip: Use room temperature tortillas for easier rolling. Experiment with different tortilla types or sizes as needed.

Honey Hush Cocktail

Cool down on those warm game days with Pam’s favorite tailgate beverage—the Honey Hush cocktail. Its refreshing mix of honeysuckle vodka and lemon offers the perfect touch of sweetness.

Ingredients:

  • Three parts Cathead Honeysuckle Vodka
  • One part lemon juice
  • One part Elderflower liqueur (St. Germain)
  • One part honey syrup

Directions (Individual Preparation):

  1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
  2. Shake well and strain into a glass.
  3. Garnish with a lemon twist or a sugar rim for that extra flair.

Tip: Consider batching this cocktail for ease of serving at large gatherings.

From savory snacks to refreshing drinks, these tailgate essentials are sure to make your game day a hit. Enjoy the food, the games, and the company as you cheer on your team this season!