3 Recipes That Won’t Disappoint Your Branding Crew
By Cowgirl Madeline
Growing up, there were always a few things I could count on during branding season. There would always be races amongst kids with our horses, rope burns, stock tank swimming and the best meals around to start and finish the day.
When pulling up to one particular branding we were always greeted with pastries and Sharon's famous breakfast burritos. Snacks like spinach dip and salami would make their way to the branding pen as the day went on and we would almost always finish with a big tri tip meal with all sorts of sides and fixings. At another place, the day ended with corned beef, cabbage and the most delectable green beans you ever did taste. My personal favorite was always our brandings. Mom would grill up some carne asada on the old washing machine drum that we used to heat our irons. She’s been perfecting this recipe for quite some time and it has always been a fan favorite. The hot carne asada was accompanied by fresh rice, beans, salsas, dirty hands and hungry cowboy crews alike.
I was taught the importance of feeding your crew and cowboy food culture if you will, from a very young age. Good meals give everyone a chance to relax and catch up at the end of the day as a small sort of incentive. I was always allowed in the kitchen and encouraged to help prepare for the work we had in store. It started off with brownies, speculoos, and safeway donuts but my recipes have since improved. It’s not uncommon for me to show up with a hot pan of apple pie cinnamon rolls, freshly homemade donuts or mom's carne asada.
A good meal shows your appreciation for your crew. Whether that be Dutch oven masterpieces, burgers or something ornate, your crew will be grateful for a delicious meal at the end of a long day's work. I’m going to share three recipes of my own, that’ve had nothing but great reviews!
The first recipe is apple pie cinnamon rolls, or as I like to call them, Ranchin Rolls! Ooey, gooey, cinnamon, apples, dough and a creamy frosting will keep your branding crew coming back around!
Ranchin Rolls:
The second recipe is biscuits and gravy. A hearty breakfast staple including a biscuit recipe by the incredibly talented Nevada Miller and my own personal gravy recipe. This will have your crew coming back for seconds!
Biscuits and Gravy:
The third and final recipe is my mom and I’s Carne Asada. A delicious meal that is sure to meet the appetite of any cowboy or cowboy gal!
Try ‘em out and let us know what you think! DM us on our Instagram with photos of your cooking creations for a chance to be featured at @westernlifeandstyle.com
