Southern Fried Chicken

Buttermilk pulls double duty in this recipe, providing flavor and tenderizing the chicken. Although the recipe traditionally calls for lard, shortening is a fine substitute.
Serves 4 to 6.

3 1/2- to 4-lb. chicken, cut fryer
2 cups buttermilk
1 tsp. black pepper, divided
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 lb. lard - or solid vegetable shortening (Crisco is a good choice)
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter

Rinse the chicken pieces and blot them with paper towels. In a large bowl combine the buttermilk, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper and the salt, and stir to combine. Add the chicken pieces and turn to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, turning the pieces occasionally.

Combine the flour, and the remaining 3/4 teaspoon of black pepper in a shallow baking dish and blend well. Line a baking sheet with three layers of paper towels and place it near the stove. Put the lard and butter in a large cast-iron frying pan or pot big enough to hold the chicken pieces in one layer without touching.

Melt over medium-high heat. The fat should be about 1/2-inch deep. Heat until it registers 365 degrees on a candy thermometer or until a small cube of bread dropped in the oil browns in about 1 minute. Using tongs, remove the thighs from the marinade, draining well. Dredge them in the flour mixture, turning to coat evenly. Shake off any excess flour. Place them skin-side down in the center of the pan.

Coat the remaining pieces in the same way and add them to the pan in a single layer without touching. Work in batches if necessary. Don't move the chicken for about 5 minutes or until the coating is set and looks firm. Check the underside by lifting with the tongs--it should be deep golden. Cook the pieces between 8 and 20 minutes (depending on size), turning them periodically until crispy brown and cooked through.

To test, cut into the thickest part of a piece. The juices should run clear and the meat should be opaque throughout. Place on the paper-lined baking sheet to drain.

Arrange the chicken pieces on a platter and serve hot or at room temperature.