Lowcountry Cuisine Summer/Fall 2019

LC 20 www.LowcountryCuisineMag.com | www.MountPleasantRestaurant.com | www.CharlestonRecipes.com lowcountry cuisine T he ease, comfort and appreciation of prepared meals when life is chaotic should never be underestimated. Whether you are on vacation, have youth sports every night, double shifts at work or you want to help someone else who is suffering from the loss of a loved one, surgery or long-term illness — the gift of food is greatly appreciated. There is debate over the beginnings of bringing or providing a dish to a family gathering — also known as a potluck — but many believe it came about in America during the 1930s when the Great Depression was in full swing. It makes sense, as it lessens the monetary burden on one person and broadens the scope of the types of foods decorating the dinner table. Many also believe Thanksgiving was the beginning, but, regardless of its origins, potluck is a success. In the South and other parts of the country, the potluck is utilized throughout the year but especially during the summer months when the days are long and filled with activities. Today, small catering businesses, restaurants and even large grocery chains have capitalized on the success of the “take-and-bake” idea. Many grocery stores provide anything from fresh-made pizza to meatloaf that a customer can simply take home and bake when the time comes to serve a meal — it’s a great option for anyone spending a day at the beach and wanting to spend a fun night indoors with minimal fuss. The New York Butcher Shoppe’s Lowcountry locations in Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms and Daniel Island not only offer a full-service butcher shop but also an entire take-and-bake menu of uncooked, cooked and specialty dishes — all proportioned according to a small group, family or party size. “We offer rare quality, well-done service, which is what BY STACY E. DOMINGO Cook Smarter , Not Harder Take and Bake Photo by Tonya McGue. Several take-and-bake options are available at New York Butcher Shoppe.