You can’t head to southern U.S without enjoying a delicious, hearty Cajun meal. The Cajun style of cooking is most known for its spice and heritage. Cajun culture was brought to Louisiana after French colonists known as the Acadians fled Canada and settled in the South. The Acadians maintained their traditional style of cooking meals in one pot, adapting to the new geographical area. Cajun recipes are most known for their spices, including cayenne pepper, garlic, paprika, thyme, and ground sassafras leaves. You’ll also find an abundance of rice and vegetables mixed in with locally sourced seafood such as crab, crawfish, shrimp, and oysters. Here are five must-try Cajun dishes:
Gumbo
Gumbo can be prepared a number of ways, but at its base, it typically incorporates the Cajun-styled roux; a combination of oil or lard with flour or okra to thicken the stew mixture. Additions of spices and vegetables are mixed in along with seafood or meat. Shrimp and oysters are popular in the dish, as is chicken and andouille sausage. The savory dish is sure to fill up bellies and put a smile on anyone’s face.
Boudin
Also found in different varieties, Boudin was created as a resourceful way to use an entire pig after butchering. Along with the pork sausage variety, boudin balls are a popular bite-size food throughout the south. A combination of pork, rice, and green onions, the boudin balls are battered and deep-fried to perfection. Find them at roadside markets, butchers, and throughout Louisiana.
Crawfish Etouffee
Similar to gumbo but unique in its own form, etouffee is much thicker than gumbo and typically has only one meat, such as crawfish. Etouffee translates to smother in French, which is the method used for this entree. The light roux mixture is served over rice and is a staple in many homes throughout the south.
Maque Choux
Maque choux is a popular side dish to many Cajun meals. It incorporates corn, bell pepper, onion mixed in with stock and spices. Cream and butter are also added occasionally, making this a delectable side to most Cajun meals.
Crawfish and Shrimp Boil
Of course, you can’t complete a list of cajuns foods without mentioning a crawfish and shrimp boil. These are equally about the social component as they are the actual meal. Springtime is a popular time for crawfish and shrimp boils, as crawfish are in abundance then. Crawfish, shrimp, potatoes, and ears of corn are boiled in large pots awaiting hungry people ready to feast. When in the south, grabbing a plate stacked with boiled seafood is a must.