Appalachian appetite, Appalachian swing

"Appalachian Appetite" is a groundbreaking new cookbook from Madison County native Susi Gott Seguret. With contributions and stories from many of the mountain region's best chefs, restaurants, and citizens, the fiddling chef presents more than 100 recipes that represent an innovative take on tradition.

Samples of the recipes will be served during a special evening of regional gourmandise and music at White Horse Black Mountain on Saturday, April 22. Dinner is served at 6:30 p.m, and music by Appalachian Swing begins at 8 p.m. Advance reservations are requested for dinner, online at whitehorseblackmountain.com or 669-0816.

From Asheville to Nashville, from Oxford, Mississippi to Millinocket, Maine, chefs when asked which cuisine most typifies America will say it comes from the South - the heartbeat of which is Appalachia. The evening's menu includes favorites from "Appalachian Appetite," including Three Sisters Chowder with Tomato Ramp Quick Bread, prepared by the author; Ralph's Chicken and Dumplings with Aunt Cora's Pickles, prepared by Sherry & Marty Lewis; and Katie Hoffman’s Molassie Cake with Sorghum Whipped Cream, prepared by Beth Frith.

Food feeds the body and music feeds the soul, so after dinner entertainment will be served up by Appalachian Swing, a musical ensemble composed of Gott plus bassist Bud Davis and Marty, Don and Ralph Lewis (of The Sons of Ralph). Susie’s father, Peter Gott, a longtime Madison County resident, noted traditional musician and folklorist, will make a guest appearance.

Food and music in Appalachia have always been intertwined, as illustrated in the titles of a multitude of fiddle tunes and ballads: "Mountain Dew,” “Cornbread, Molasses & Sassafras Tea,” “Shortenin’ Bread,” “Walkin’ in My Sleep,” “Leather Britches" and endless others.

With a diploma in Gastronomy and Taste from the Cordon Bleu and the Université de Reims, Susi Gott Seguret honed her culinary skills in France, where she resided for more than 20 years. Passionate about elements of taste and style and how they extend from our palate into our daily lives, she strives to blend food, music, words and images into a tapestry for the senses.

Bile ’em Cabbage Down

What: Susi Gott Seguret dinner and show

When: April 22, 6:30 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. show

Where: White Horse Black Mountain

Cost: $49 package; concert only $18 advance, $20 door