New Orleans Spring Supper: Roast Chicken, New Potatoes & Japanese Plum Jam

Roast chicken pairs perfectly with spring vegetables. Make jam from Japanese plums for a sweet touch to any meal. Enjoy!

Spring is a time for fresh flavors and vibrant dishes that celebrate the season of renewal. One simple yet delicious meal that embodies the essence of spring is a roast chicken. This versatile dish can be paired with a variety of colorful and tasty foods, making it the perfect backdrop for a springtime feast.

Roast chicken is bursting with delicious flavors that can complement a salad of fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado. It also pairs well with spring vegetables like new potatoes, artichokes, fresh peas, and grilled corn. Why not roast two chickens at once? You can freeze one for later use, saving you from having to buy a rotisserie chicken at the store.

Speaking of new potatoes, this is the perfect time to enjoy these tender and creamy delights. Their starchy texture allows them to be both soft and crispy, making them a delightful addition to any spring meal. Look for small new potatoes that are similar in size and don't bother peeling them - just give them a good rinse.

One special springtime treat is the Japanese plum, a fruit that is cherished in Louisiana. Children often climb these trees to pick the lovely orange fruit that grows abundantly in the area. I have fond memories of climbing plum trees as a child and enjoying the fruit with my grandmother, who made the most delicious jam out of them. This jam, lighter and less dense than commercial varieties, was perfect for topping ice cream, pound cake, or bread with Creole cream cheese.

Now, let's get cooking! Start by preparing a simple roast chicken, seasoned with salt, pepper, and lemon zest, and stuffed with a lemon half. Roast it in the oven until the juices run clear, then let it rest before serving. Pair it with smashed new potatoes, boiled until tender and then smashed, drizzled with butter and olive oil, and baked until crispy. Finally, enjoy a sweet treat of Japanese plum jam, made with fresh plums, sugar, and lemon juice, simmered until thick and luscious.

Spring is a time to savor the flavors of the season and enjoy the bounty of fresh ingredients that nature provides. So gather your loved ones around the table, share a delicious meal together, and celebrate the beauty of spring with these delightful dishes.