You're in Byrne Country...

Take Aways - Kenny's Independently Awesome Burgers and Hashbrown Casserole

For Independence day, we broke out of the normal routine that we keep when visiting the in-laws in Mobile (cook, eat, drink, repeat). Instead, we decided to take thekingfishmenu to Fairhope, where we changed up the routine a bit (swim, drink, cook, eat, repeat). Fairhope is located in Baldwin County (or as some call it, Byrne Country).

One of Mollie's best friends from childhood, Patrick Byrne, had a group of their friends over. The entire group is a prime example of southern hospitality and have been more than welcoming of Mollie's new boyfriend (eventually turned husband). Upon arrival, we realized that we were catching everyone on Day 2 of the fiesta, and we missed out on some extremely tasty Day 1 ribs. However, no problem....there was more Americana to be experienced.

Patrick has moved closer to home while helping with his dad's gubernatorial campaign (thus the Byrne Country reference), and the place makes a great setting for a Southern Living Style 4th of July gathering. Well, I should say that the place is a good start. Add to it that some of the attendees went to the local Fireworks stand to make a few purchases before we arrived. They were told that a purchase of over $100 would automatically receive a 15% discount. Apparently, the discount was received several times over....the redneck (as Kenny put it) draw to fire resulted in some pretty incredible displays.

One of the funnier parts of the day was when Patrick's Dog (Charlie) knocked our friend Ryan McKee off of the sailboat while Ryan was trying to save the dog from slipping off (notice the foot in the picture above). However, I think that the highlight of the night was the burgers that another friend, Kenny Nichols, prepared.

Kenny allowed me to assist in the creation, which basically consisted of prepping large burgers with quality beef (a little fat should be allowed...it's a holiday). The ingredients consisted of some garlic powder, Worchestershire sauce and the beef (mixed and made into thick patties). Thereafter, he tops them with some "Southern Flavor" brand seasoning. I believe he uses the Original Charbroil Seasoning offered by Southern Flavor. Kenny says that the use of a ceramic-type pit is also a key to success (for those of us without...these would still be delicious).

Some like the hash brown casserole that I prepared, but that is pretty basic. I have included the recipe on the off chance that you are in the mood for high caloric intake. All in all, we had a great time in Byrne Country.

Hashbrown Casserole

1 LB bag frozen cubed potatoes or hashbrowns (better with onions and bell peppers included)

1 small container sour cream

1 can cream of mushroom

1 (10oz) pack of cubed ham (if you cannot find, just cube 10 oz of salted regular ham)

2 cups Mexican combination shredded cheese (preferably with jalapenos included)

1-2 cups additional sharp shredded cheddar

Cajun seasoning, black pepper and Greek seasoning (to taste)

Preheat oven to 375. In a large casserole dish, combine all ingredient thoroughly. Cover with aluminum foil (sealing tightly). Cook covered for 1 hour. Remove cover until golden brown on top. Eat then go jogging.