Southern cooking for idiots

I just love farmers’ markets. I love wandering the stalls, chatting with the merchants, sampling fresh fruit slices, snacking on to-die-for kettle popcorn, and most of all, discovering treasures amongst piles and piles of … junk.

This weekend at the downtown Vallejo farmers’ market, there was a used books seller. An avid cookbook reader, I couldn’t resist picking up this find: Any Idiot Can Cook with Simple Southern Recipes.

It cost me a $1. A stupendous bargain, if you ask me, as I anticipate this little gem will provide hours (if not years) of entertainment value.

It’s got a cute, down-home style to it.

Who can resist recipes titled Ernestine’s Oven Porcupines. Looks like it makes meatballs, but I like that they’re called porcupines. Those Southerners—they’re so colorful, aren’t they?

Boogar Hollow Chicken Pie. I mean, COME ON! Don’t tell me you’re not a little intrigued. And slightly grossed out. The word boogar, no matter how it’s spelled, and food should never pair together. Ever.

But it makes you curious, eh?

And then, of course, my favorite: Any Idiot Can Make Fudge. I love it!

My goodness, the wonderful treasures you find at farmers’ markets. It’s not just for produce anymore.