#grandmamary

[grandmamarieslouisianakitchen]

Culinary Cousins: Louisiana's Culinary Kaleidoscope of Cajun and Creole

Welcome back to our Louisiana kitchen, cher! Let’s delve into a topic close to my heart – the captivating world of Cajun and Creole cuisines. While these two culinary traditions share the same vibrant home, there are nuances that make each one a unique celebration of flavor.

Similarities

Most cousins share some traits and us Cajuns and Creoles? Well, now, we aren’t that different.

Rich Heritage Both Cajun and Creole cuisines are born from the rich cultural tapestry of Louisiana. They intertwine elements from French, Spanish, African, and Native American traditions, creating a delicious mosaic that reflects our diverse history.

Holy Trinity The "Holy Trinity" – a medley of bell peppers, onions, and celery in the heart of both cuisines. This aromatic trio serves as the flavor foundation for many dishes, providing depth and character to Cajun gumbos and Creole étouffées.

Rice Is A Staple Rice is a fundamental component in both Cajun and Creole cooking. Whether it's a bed for gumbo or jambalaya or a side dish, rice ties these culinary traditions together.

Differences

Everyone has their differences, even something as small as ordering a Dr. Pepper instead of a Big Shot. (It happens.)

Geographic Roots One key distinction lies in their geographic roots. Cajun cuisine hails from the rural areas of Louisiana, particularly the Acadiana region, while Creole cuisine originates in the urban centers, primarily New Orleans.

Influences and Ingredients Cajun cuisine often leans towards heartier, rustic fare with influences from the French countryside. Game meats, seafood, and ingredients like andouille sausage are staples. On the other hand, Creole cuisine showcases more refined flavors, often incorporating tomatoes, fine herbs, and a variety of spices.

Cooking Techniques The cooking techniques also set them apart. Due to their rural roots, Cajun dishes are often one-pot wonders simmered to develop robust flavors. In Creole cuisine, you might find more intricate sauces and delicate preparations, showcasing the finesse of French culinary techniques.

Global Influences in Creole Being born in a melting pot like New Orleans, Creole cuisine has been influenced by a broader array of international flavors. Spanish, African, Caribbean, and Italian influences are more pronounced in Creole dishes, offering a diverse and eclectic culinary experience.

In the end, both Cajun and Creole cuisines share a love for bold, flavorful dishes that bring people together. Whether you're simmering a gumbo on the bayou or enjoying a Creole-inspired feast in the heart of New Orleans, you're partaking in the magic of Louisiana's culinary heritage.

Jambalaya: A Culinary Symphony

The iconic Jambalaya is one dish that is beloved by both Cajun and Creole communities. Jambalaya reflects the diverse cultural influences and rich culinary heritage of Louisiana. While there may be variations in the recipes between Cajun and Creole versions, the heart of the dish remains a shared love for bold flavors and hearty, one-pot creations.

Cajun Jambalaya

Ingredients Typically, it includes andouille sausage, chicken, and sometimes game meats like rabbit or alligator. It's seasoned with a robust blend of spices, and the trinity of onions, bell peppers, and celery forms the flavor base.

Cooking Style Cajun jambalaya often features a brown roux for added depth and a rustic, hearty feel. It's a flavorful dish that reflects the down-to-earth, rural roots of Cajun cuisine.

Creole Jambalaya

Ingredients Creole jambalaya may include a mix of proteins like shrimp, ham, and smoked sausage. Tomatoes are a distinguishing feature, giving the dish a slightly reddish hue. The trinity is present, but green bell peppers are more common.

Cooking Style Creole jambalaya tends to have a lighter, tomato-based sauce. The cooking style aligns more with the sophisticated techniques often associated with Creole cuisine.

Despite these variations, the essence of jambalaya as a communal, flavorful dish that brings people together is a shared sentiment in both Cajun and Creole communities.

It truly reflects Louisiana's cultural melting pot, where diverse influences meld into a harmonious culinary symphony. 

Whether enjoyed at a family gathering, a festival, or a casual dinner, jambalaya embodies the spirit of Louisiana's love for good food, good company, and good times.

Cajun Jambalaya Recipe

This Jambalaya is a meal that brings folks together, so gather your loved ones and savor the taste of Louisiana's heart and soul. 

Ingredients

1 lb andouille sausage, sliced

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 bell pepper, diced

3 celery stalks, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups chicken broth

2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and black pepper to taste

Green onions, chopped, for garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

Slice the andouille sausage.

Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.

Chop onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, green onions, and parsley.

Sear Meats

In a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven, sear the andouille sausage over medium-high heat until browned. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add a bit of oil if needed. Sauté the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic until softened.

Build Flavors

Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for a few minutes.

Add Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine Ingredients

Return the seared andouille sausage and chicken to the pot.

Add the rice and stir to coat the rice with the flavorful mixture.

Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Serve

Once the rice is tender, remove the pot from heat.

Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley.

Enjoy

Serve hot, and enjoy the flavorful goodness of Cajun Jambalaya!

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving, Assuming 6 Servings)

Remember that the nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. The values provided are for one serving of Cajun Jambalaya, assuming the recipe makes approximately six servings.

Calories: Approximately 450-500 calories

Total Fat: 20-25g

Saturated Fat: 7-9g

Trans Fat: 0g

Cholesterol: 80-90mg

Sodium: 1200-1400mg

Total Carbohydrates: 35-40g

Dietary Fiber: 2-3g

Sugars: 3-4g

Protein: 20-25g

Note

The nutritional values can vary based on the specific brands and types of andouille sausage, chicken, rice, and other ingredients used.

Adjustments, such as using leaner sausage or brown rice, can impact the nutritional content.

For precise nutritional information, especially if you have specific dietary considerations, it's advisable to use a nutrition calculator with the exact brands and quantities of ingredients you use. 

Until next time, I wish you warmth and flavor!

[chrisangelv316]

I can’t tell you how blessed I am to have this amazing woman in my life! My Grandma Mary 👵🏽 #grandmasfavorite #hernegrito #grandmamary (at Lower East Side) https://www.instagram.com/p/B51Lp84ArwqP48qoDNWzhuSCVo_FBkui40uDyE0/?igshid=6wfb76um6t8m

[applekelly]

For me? 🧁🐕 • • • • • #meringuemonday #dukethegreyhound #grandmasmeringuepie #lemonmeringue #lemonmeringuepie #grandmaspie #grandmamary #greyhoundsofinstagram #greyhound #niagara #niagaraonthelake #dukeno #greyhoundlife #greyhoundlove #olddogs #retiredracinggreyhound #greyhoundsoftoronto #notl #spring #dogstagram #dogsoftoronto #longdog #longweekend #may24 #victoriaday #victoriadayweekend (at Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario) https://www.instagram.com/p/BxsrH8ShrKg/?igshid=7c1jtulqr20u

[andypeeke]

Getting ready to lift up my grandma Mary for her 90th birthday in Palm Springs next month. 💪🏿🤠👍🏿 . #GrandmaMary #PalmSprings #CrunchNYC #90thBirthday (at Crunch Fitness)

[starchicboutique]

Today we lay to rest"Grandma Mary. She used to always tell me you sharp & built just like your momma. So in her honor i had to bring out my #slayage. Thank you for always loving me as your own granddaughter. #rip #grandmamary #family #foe #maryrenwrick

[dreams-come-true-by-shanea-blog]

Off for a family ride after a day that takes a strong family to make it threw. 💙 We love you grandmamary, we're able to grieve, we're able to smile. We will carry the family traditions, while knowing that you and pap are watching us as happy as ever! Till we meet again. 😍💕#family #stayhumble #staykind #riseup #livethedream #chasingmydreams #loveyourself #stayfamilystrong #thedodsonclan #familyfourwheelerrides #shaneasteele #changinglivesonedayatatime #mamaoftwo #wifey #beyondblessed

[geepet]

Guess I better do some #canning tomorrow. #tomatoes 🍅!#supersauce #grandmamarys #amishpaste #juliets #summergirls #mygarden

[adhdrecords-blog]

2006 my last Bit.. Don't know why my clothes was so damn big 😂 me & GrandmaMary 💓 #flashbackfriday (at Brockbridge Correctional Facility)

[grandmamarieslouisianakitchen]

Lagniappe Living: Adding A Little Extra To Your Cajun Lifestyle

Ah, my cher, gather 'round as we delve into the heart of Lagniappe Living, a cherished aspect of our Cajun lifestyle. In the tapestry of Cajun culture, lagniappe is the extra dash of spice, the unexpected warmth, the little something special that adds a touch of magic to our everyday lives.

The Essence of Lagniappe

In the bayou, our doors are always open, and our hearts even more so. Lagniappe living is the art of welcoming others with open arms, inviting them to share in the abundance of our homes and the richness of our stories.

Culinary Delights Picture a table groaning under the weight of a hearty gumbo, a pot of simmering jambalaya, and trays of beignets dusted with powdered sugar. Lagniappe living is about serving up not just a meal but a feast, ensuring that no one leaves our table without a satisfied heart and a full belly.

Dance of the Bayou As the zydeco music drifts through the air, lagniappe living is about infusing our days with the spontaneous joy of dance. Whether it's a lively two-step or a soulful waltz, every day is a chance to move to the rhythm of the bayou.

Stories by the Fire Under the Louisiana night sky, lagniappe living is about gathering by the fire, sharing tales of the bayou that have been passed down through generations. It's about preserving our history and creating bonds that withstand the test of time.

Festivals and Feasts In the heart of Cajun country, every season brings a reason to celebrate. Lagniappe living is about embracing the festivals and feasts that punctuate our calendar, reveling in the unique blend of music, food, and camaraderie that defines each occasion.

Embracing Lagniappe Every Day

Lagniappe living extends beyond celebrations; it's in the everyday acts of kindness. A warm smile, a helping hand, or a kind word - these are the lagniappe moments that make life richer.

Sharing Traditions Passing down our traditions is a cornerstone of lagniappe living. Whether it's teaching the secret to a roux or showing someone the steps to a traditional dance, we enrich each other's lives by sharing our cultural treasures.

Embracing Diversity In the melting pot of Louisiana, lagniappe living is about embracing the diversity that colors our community. It's about learning from each other, respecting differences, and finding unity in our shared love for this vibrant land.

So, my loves, as we embrace the spirit of lagniappe living, let's add that little extra to our Cajun lifestyle. Whether it's in the flavors of our meals, the warmth of our hospitality, or the joy in our celebrations, let lagniappe be the thread that weaves through the fabric of our Cajun lives. Laissez les bons temps rouler - let the good times roll with a little extra Cajun magic!

Sharing The Magic

In times of hardship, a warm meal can be a comforting embrace for the soul. Ther will always be someone who is ill, who lost a loved one, or who is depressed or struggling with something. Sometimes it's them, sometimes it's us, but it will all balance out in the quickest, easiest, most pleasant way possible if we keep our hearts open to each other.

Here's a menu idea for creating meals, crafted with love and the essence of Cajun comfort to bring solace to those in need:

Meal 1: Chicken and Sausage Gumbo A hearty bowl of chicken and sausage gumbo, filled with a roux-infused broth, succulent meats, and a medley of vegetables, to warm the heart and nourish the body.

Meal 2: Shrimp Étouffée Delight in the flavors of the bayou with a comforting shrimp étouffée. A rich and flavorful stew, served over rice, to bring a taste of Louisiana to the table.

Meal 3: Red Beans and Rice with Andouille Sausage A classic Cajun dish featuring red beans, Andouille sausage, and a medley of spices, served over rice for a heartwarming and filling meal.

Meal 4: Jambalaya Savor the essence of Cajun cuisine with a delightful jambalaya, a one-pot wonder filled with a mix of meats, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice.

Meal 5: Crawfish Macaroni and Cheese Indulge in the comforting embrace of crawfish macaroni and cheese, a decadent dish that marries the creaminess of cheese with the delicate flavors of crawfish.

Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni

1 pound peeled crawfish tails (fresh or frozen)

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

(Optional) 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

Cook Macaroni Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare Crawfish If using frozen crawfish tails, thaw them according to the package instructions. If fresh, ensure they are cleaned and peeled.

Make Roux In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 2-3 minutes until it's golden brown.

Add Milk Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.

Melt Cheese Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth.

Season Add Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Combine with Crawfish and Macaroni Gently fold in the cooked crawfish tails and macaroni until they are evenly coated with the cheese sauce.

Bake (Optional) If you like a baked crust, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve your Cajun Crawfish Macaroni and Cheese hot and flavorful.

Nutritional Information

Including optional ingredients may impact the nutritional content. Here's an approximate nutrition breakdown per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 350-400 calories

Protein: 20-25 grams

Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams Dietary Fiber: Around 2-3 grams Sugars: Around 5-8 grams

Fat: Approximately 18-22 grams Saturated Fat: Around 10-12 grams

Cholesterol: Approximately 80-100 milligrams

Sodium: Around 400-500 milligrams

For more accurate nutritional information, we recommend using a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you plan to use.

Meal 6: Chicken Fricassee A comforting chicken fricassee featuring tender chicken simmered in a flavorful gravy with vegetables, creating a dish that warms the heart and soul.

Meal 7: Seafood Gumbo End the week on a delicious note with seafood gumbo, a medley of shrimp, crab, and other seafood, swimming in a flavorful roux-based broth.

Preparation Tips

Portion each meal into individual serving containers for easy reheating.

Label each container with reheating instructions.

Include a kind note or uplifting message with each meal to provide an extra touch of warmth.

It is my prayer that these meals bring comfort and nourishment to those facing challenging times. In each bite, may they feel the love and support of the Cajun spirit.

Laissez les bons temps rouler - let the good times roll with the comfort of a home-cooked meal!

[ginaminichiellodude]

Still can't believe today was the day that you went to the other side, the woman who was and still there for me. She is my rock and will be always.Thank you for being there for me either a phone call or picking me up and taking me everywhere growing up. See you on the other side, hope your kicking ass in Uno up there too, Love you always and forever Grandma Mary ❤ Rest in peace, and so glad there is no pain for you anymore. God gained another angel #loveyou #grandmamary

[grandmamarieslouisianakitchen]

Sips And Stories: Exploring Cajun Cocktails And Delectable Appetizer Duets

Ah, my cher, welcome to another delightful journey into the heart of our Cajun heritage! Today, we gather around the virtual fireplace to uncover the rich tapestry of flavors that define our Louisiana libations and the appetizers that perfectly complement each cherished sip.

The Vieux Carré: A Cocktail Time Capsule

Our first sip takes us back to the heart of New Orleans with the Vieux Carré. This timeless concoction, born in the famed Carousel Bar, mirrors the diverse influences of our beloved city. With rye whiskey, cognac, vermouth, and a touch of bitters, it's a cocktail that encapsulates the spirit of the French Quarter.

Ingredients

1 oz rye whiskey

1 oz cognac

1 oz sweet vermouth

1 tsp Benedictine liqueur

2 dashes Peychaud's Bitters

2 dashes Angostura Bitters

Lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions

Fill a mixing glass with ice.

Add rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, Benedictine, Peychaud's Bitters, and Angostura Bitters.

Stir well to chill the mixture.

Strain the concoction into a chilled rocks glass over a large ice cube.

Express the oils from a lemon twist over the drink and drop it into the glass.

Sip and savor the timeless flavors of the Vieux Carré!

Cajun Bloody Mary: A Spicy Wake-Up Call

As the morning sun kisses the bayou, we indulge in the Cajun Bloody Mary – a spicy wake-up call for the senses. Infused with our secret blend of Cajun spices, this revitalizing elixir pays homage to our love for bold flavors. It's the perfect companion for lazy Sunday brunches or a lively Mardi Gras morning.

Ingredients

1 ½ oz vodka

3 oz tomato juice

½ oz fresh lemon juice

1 dash Worcestershire sauce

1 dash hot sauce (adjust to taste)

1 pinch Cajun seasoning

Celery stalk, pickled okra, and lemon wedge, for garnish

Instructions

In a shaker with ice, combine vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and Cajun seasoning.

Shake well to mix and chill the ingredients.

Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice.

Garnish with a celery stalk, pickled okra, and a lemon wedge.

Give it a gentle stir and enjoy the spicy wake-up call!

Zydeco Hurricane: Dancing in a Glass

No exploration of Cajun cocktails is complete without the Zydeco Hurricane. As vibrant and spirited as the music that shares its name, this fruity concoction was first crafted at Pat O'Brien's in the heart of the French Quarter. A blend of rum, passion fruit juice, and citrus, it's a celebration in a glass, transporting us to the lively rhythms of a zydeco band.

Ingredients:

2 oz light rum

2 oz dark rum

1 oz passion fruit juice

¾ oz fresh lime juice

1 tbsp simple syrup

Orange slice and cherry, for garnish

Instructions:

Fill a shaker with ice.

Add light rum, dark rum, passion fruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.

Shake vigorously to blend the flavors.

Strain the mixture into a hurricane glass filled with ice.

Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.

Let the Zydeco Hurricane transport you to the lively rhythms of Louisiana!

Bayou Swizzle: A Cool Breeze on a Warm Day

For a cool breeze on a warm Louisiana day, we turn to the Bayou Swizzle. With the herbal notes of absinthe, the refreshing touch of mint, and the tropical allure of pineapple juice, it's a libation that mirrors the soothing whispers of the bayou winds.

Ingredients

2 oz white rum

½ oz absinthe

¾ oz pineapple juice

½ oz simple syrup

Mint sprig and pineapple wedge, for garnish

Instructions

Fill a Collins glass with crushed ice.

In a shaker, combine white rum, absinthe, pineapple juice, and simple syrup.

Shake well and strain over the crushed ice in the Collins glass.

Swizzle the mixture with a swizzle stick or bar spoon.

Garnish with a mint sprig and a pineapple wedge.

Enjoy the cool breeze of the Bayou Swizzle!

Cajun Martini: A Toast to Simplicity

Simplicity takes center stage with the Cajun Martini – a toast to the elegance of our heritage. Made with crisp vodka, a whisper of vermouth, and a hint of olive brine, it's a cocktail that captures the essence of our straightforward Cajun spirit.

Ingredients:

2 oz vodka

½ oz dry vermouth

½ oz olive brine

Green olive or lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions:

Fill a mixing glass with ice.

Add vodka, dry vermouth, and olive brine.

Stir well to chill the ingredients.

Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.

Garnish with a green olive or a lemon twist.

Raise a glass to the simplicity of the Cajun Martini!

With each sip on this spirited journey through the flavors and tales of our Cajun cocktails, we uncover a piece of our cultural mosaic, celebrating the diverse influences and vibrant traditions that make our Louisiana libations truly special.

May these recipes add a touch of Cajun magic to your gatherings. Sip responsibly and savor the flavors of the bayou in each delightful concoction!

The Munchies

To complement our Cajun cocktails in perfect harmony, let's indulge in a medley of flavorful appetizers that will dance on our taste buds. Here are some cherished Cajun delights to serve alongside our sips:

Boudin Balls These golden orbs of delight, made with a mixture of boudin sausage, rice, and Cajun seasonings, are the perfect crunchy companions for our Cajun cocktails. Serve them with a zesty dipping sauce for an extra kick.

Crawfish Dip Capture the essence of the bayou with a creamy crawfish dip. A blend of crawfish tails, cream cheese, and Cajun spices creates a luscious spread that pairs exquisitely with slices of crusty French bread or crispy tortilla chips.

Cajun Shrimp Skewers Thread succulent Cajun-seasoned shrimp onto skewers and grill them to perfection. These skewers are a savory delight, marrying the bold flavors of Cajun spices with the irresistible taste of perfectly grilled shrimp.

Alligator Bites For a truly adventurous appetizer, savor the taste of alligator bites. Marinated in Cajun spices, these bite-sized morsels provide a unique and flavorful experience that will leave your guests intrigued and delighted.

Muffuletta Pinwheels Transform the iconic New Orleans muffuletta into bite-sized pinwheels. Spread olive salad on thin slices of deli meats and cheeses, roll them up, and slice into delectable pinwheels. These little bites are a taste of the Big Easy in every bite.

Cajun Crab Cakes Create savory Cajun crab cakes infused with the essence of the bayou. Packed with lump crabmeat and Cajun seasonings, these golden delights are a crispy and flavorful addition to our appetizer spread.

Andouille Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms Elevate the humble mushroom with a stuffing of Cajun-seasoned andouille sausage, breadcrumbs, and cheese. These savory stuffed mushrooms are a bite-sized explosion of Cajun flavors.

So, my cher, as we sip on our Cajun cocktails and share stories by the fire, let these delectable appetizers weave a culinary tapestry that celebrates the richness of our Cajun heritage.

Laissez les saveurs du bayou éclater – let the flavors of the bayou burst forth in each savory bite!

[kerrnie]

Throwing it back to the best slumber party ever. #LOVE

[yours-truly-ciarajade]

#day13: #someoneyoumiss As the Christmas Season gets closer and closer, I am reminded about you constantly. This was your favorite time of the year. Your favorite Christmas movie was A Winter Wonderland. I miss you so much its crazy. It's been a LONG and CRAZY three years and I feel like the next three or even the next THIRTY aren't gonna be any easier! I could write a book of EVERY memory I have with you but I doubt anyone would want to hear it. There's just so many things I wish I could have done. I love you and I miss you and I wish you were here! #christmas #mary #grandmamary #ripgrandmamary #092810 #iloveyou #imissyou #iwishyouwerehere