This month’s featured recipe originates from Saluda, North Carolina, located in Polk County. The author, Ron Poole, is known for his cookbook Fat Man’s Favorites: Down Home and Delicious Recipes of Family, Friends & Enemies (2000). Given the engaging title, it promises a wonderful collection of recipes. In the introduction, Ron explains that the cookbook was inspired by his wife, Linda, who encouraged him to organize their recipes, which were stored in a Longaberger basket.

I chose the Cheese Scones, as Ron mentioned that it is a family favorite of the Poole family. He was right, the aroma while baking was quite tempting. I appreciate that he and his wife Linda are enthusiastic cooks, which allowed me to modify their recipes with ease. Instead of all-purpose flour, I used self-rising flour, since that is what I had available. The presence of baking soda and cream of tartar indicated that the original recipe was intended for all-purpose flour. I also left out the salt, as salt is included in self-rising flour.

Once the egg and milk mixture is added to the dry ingredients, I made the dough into one ball. Then I kneaded it and divided into two portions.

Now that I’ve made Ran’s cheese scone recipe, I thoroughly comprehend how this became a Poole family favorite!

Thank you, Ron and Linda, for sharing your recipes with us! They are truly your “best of the your best!” This one may become a family favorite at my house, too.

Enjoy!

Carolyn Shankle