Exploring Charleston, SC in Fall: Why You Should Hire a Private Chef

Charleston, South Carolina, is undoubtedly a charming destination all year round, but there's something particularly magical about the city during the fall season. As the temperatures cool down and the vibrant foliage paints the cityscape with warm hues, Charleston beckons visitors to experience its unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine.

1. Discover Historic Charleston:

Fall is the perfect time to explore the historic heart of Charleston. Stroll down cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old oak trees and picturesque antebellum architecture. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history by visiting landmarks like the Charleston City Market, the Nathaniel Russell House, and Rainbow Row.

2. Savor Lowcountry Cuisine:

Charleston is renowned for its delectable cuisine, and fall brings a unique twist to the city's culinary scene. Local chefs start incorporating the season's bounty into their menus, showcasing dishes featuring fresh seafood, sweet potatoes, collard greens, and more. By hiring a personal chef service like Charleston Chef Service, you can savor these fall flavors without the hassle of making reservations or waiting in line at restaurants.

3. Visit Plantations and Gardens:

Fall is an ideal time to explore the lush plantations and gardens surrounding Charleston. Places like Middleton Place and Magnolia Plantation come alive with vibrant foliage, blooming flowers, and meandering waterways.

4. Attend Festivals and Events:

Charleston hosts a variety of festivals and events in the fall, celebrating everything from food and wine to history and the arts. The Charleston Wine + Food Festival, the MOJA Arts Festival, and the Preservation Society's Fall Tours of Homes and Gardens are just a few examples. Catch Charleston Chef Service at Charleston Wine + Food Festival as well as other events through out the year.

5. Embrace Relaxation and Comfort:

Fall in Charleston offers a respite from the summer heat, making it the perfect time to unwind and enjoy the city's tranquil ambiance. Whether you prefer spending your days on the beautiful beaches, exploring the serene marshlands, or taking leisurely carriage rides through the historic district, Charleston's fall charm invites relaxation. A private chef can elevate your evenings by preparing sumptuous meals tailored to your tastes.

Charleston, SC, in the fall is a captivating destination that offers a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. To make the most of your visit, consider enlisting the services of Charleston Chef Service. With their private chef services, you can savor the flavors of the season, enjoy gourmet meals at your convenience, and create unforgettable memories in this charming Southern city. Charleston in the fall is a treat for the senses, and a private chef can ensure that your culinary experience is as unforgettable as the city itself.

Carolina Gold Arancini

Carolina Gold Arancini, Parmesan & Sesame Seeds

While we might have lost most of our crop variety since the commercial adoption of monoculture, there are still some people out there trying to preserve America’s great heirloom varieties. Marsh Hen Mill, a family-owned farm on Edisto Island, SC is one of them, growing and milling their own heirloom grains like Sea Island red peas, Carolina gold rice, black eyed peas, and Blue Corn. 

Carolina gold rice is a staple crop in South Carolina. It’s a long grain flavorful rice and a perfect canvas for tons of classic southern dishes. There are a billion ways to prepare white rice and I'm sure you’re familiar with more than a few. You probably don’t have quite as many recipes for all that leftover rice, though. This is a modern take on a classic but if you don’t like parmesan or sesame, there are so many other ways to play with flavors here. Have at it!

Note: Make sure you use cooled leftover rice. This recipe won’t work with fresh rice.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Carolina gold rice, cooked

• ½ cup grated parmesan

• 1/8 cup parsley, chopped

• ¼ tsp minced garlic

• 3 large eggs

• 2 cups panko, finely ground

• 1.5 cups AP flour

• 1 Tbsp Sesame Seeds

• s&p to taste

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine your cooked rice, parmesan, parsley, garlic, sesame seeds, and egg. 

2. If more binder is needed, add finely ground panko a little at a time until proper texture is reached

3. Roll mixture into balls about the size of  golf ball

4. Place on a parchment lined baking sheet and chill in the freezer. 

5. While your mixture is chilling, set up an egg wash station with finely ground panko in one bowl, whisked eggs in another, and AP flour in the last. 

6. After about 30 minutes, remove the chilled rice balls from the freezer. 

7. First, coat the rice ball in flour. Shake off excess. 

8. Next, dunk the flour-coated rice ball in the egg mixture followed by the panko mixture. 

9. Return to your baking sheet and proceed with the rest of the rice balls. 

10. Once all the rice balls have been egg-washed, return to the freezer for 30 minutes or overnight. 

11. When you’re ready to cook, Heat oil in a deep bottom pan on medium high heat.

12. Once preheated, add your Arancini to the oil. Constantly rotate to ensure even browning. Each one will take about 6-8 minutes in the oil. 

13. While still hot, garnish with salt, parmesan, sesame seeds, and parsley. Enjoy!