Gullah Geechee-Inspired Recipes with Brownstone Blends: A Fusion of Tradition and Flavor

At Brownstone Worldwide, we celebrate cultural heritage and the flavors that bring people together. As we honor Gullah Geechee Heritage Month, we invite you into the kitchen to explore traditional Gullah Geechee recipes with a modern twist using Brownstone Blends. These blends—Everyday Blend, Garlic Lemon Pepper, Turmeric Jerk, and Cinnamon Sugar Nutmeg—add a burst of flavor while staying true to the roots of Gullah Geechee cuisine.

The Gullah Geechee people are known for their simple, hearty dishes that highlight fresh ingredients and bold seasonings. By incorporating these signature blends, you can easily recreate the flavors of the Lowcountry at home. Let’s dive into four delicious recipes that combine traditional Gullah Geechee cooking with the rich, vibrant flavors of Brownstone Blends.

1. Gullah Geechee Red Rice with Brownstone Everyday Blend

Red Rice is a staple in Gullah Geechee cuisine, reflecting the African roots of rice-based dishes. This flavorful, one-pot meal gets its deep red color from tomatoes and is typically packed with savory ingredients like smoked sausage or shrimp.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup smoked sausage (optional) or shrimp
• 2 tbsp Brownstone Blends Everyday Blend
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the sausage or shrimp (if using) and cook for another 5 minutes until browned.
3. Stir in Brownstone Blends Everyday Blend, smoked paprika, diced tomatoes (with juice), and chicken broth.
4. Add the rice and stir everything together. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and cover. Let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff with a fork, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot!

Flavor Tip: The Everyday Blend enhances the natural flavors of the tomatoes, rice, and sausage, making this dish hearty and satisfying for any meal.

2. Garlic Lemon Pepper Fish Fry with Gullah Geechee Inspiration

Fried fish is a beloved tradition in Gullah Geechee cooking, often served with rice, collard greens, or cornbread. This recipe adds a zesty kick using Brownstone Blends Garlic Lemon Pepper, brightening up the crispy, golden coating of the fish.

Ingredients:

• 4 catfish fillets (or any white fish like flounder or tilapia)
• 1 cup cornmeal
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp Brownstone Blends Garlic Lemon Pepper
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 egg, beaten
• ½ cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix cornmeal, flour, Garlic Lemon Pepper, cayenne, and salt.
2. In a separate dish, whisk together the egg and buttermilk.
3. Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Dip each fish fillet into the egg mixture, then dredge in the seasoned cornmeal mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Fry the fish in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite sides!

Flavor Tip: The Garlic Lemon Pepper blend adds a fresh, tangy bite to the crispy fried fish, cutting through the richness with a perfect balance of flavors.

3. Turmeric Jerk Shrimp and Grits with a Gullah Twist

Shrimp and grits is another iconic dish in Gullah Geechee cuisine. This version is elevated with the earthy, spicy warmth of Brownstone Blends Turmeric Jerk. The bold spices complement the creamy grits and succulent shrimp for a dish bursting with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp Brownstone Blends Turmeric Jerk
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup quick-cooking grits
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Turmeric Jerk and olive oil. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
2. Cook the grits according to package instructions using water or chicken broth. Once thickened, stir in butter, cheddar cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat a little more olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Serve the shrimp over the creamy grits and garnish with fresh parsley.

Flavor Tip: The Turmeric Jerk blend infuses the shrimp with complex flavors—spicy, earthy, and slightly sweet—creating a perfect pairing with the richness of the grits.

4. Cinnamon Sugar Nutmeg Sweet Potato Pie with a Gullah Geechee Twist

Sweet potato pie is a beloved dessert in Gullah Geechee culture, offering a sweet and spiced flavor reminiscent of African yam dishes. With the addition of Brownstone Blends Cinnamon Sugar Nutmeg, this pie reaches new levels of warmth and comfort.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs, beaten
• ½ cup evaporated milk
• 2 tbsp Brownstone Blends Cinnamon Sugar Nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade, if you prefer)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, brown sugar, beaten eggs, evaporated milk, Cinnamon Sugar Nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and smooth the top.
3. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Let the pie cool before slicing. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Flavor Tip: The Cinnamon Sugar Nutmeg blend adds the perfect balance of sweet and spice, making this pie an irresistible dessert for any occasion.These recipes bring together the best of Gullah Geechee traditions and the vibrant flavors of Brownstone Blends. Whether you’re creating a comforting Red Rice dish or indulging in a slice of Sweet Potato Pie, you’ll be honoring a rich cultural heritage while adding a modern, flavorful twist. So, gather your family and friends, and let the flavors of the Lowcountry come to life in your kitchen this Gullah Geechee Heritage Month.

Enjoy the journey through these time-honored recipes, and don’t forget to season them with love—because that’s what makes every dish truly special.