Friday, March 26, 2010

Cajun Food's Rich History


Cajun food has its roots in the deep south of Louisiana and Mississippi. This stereotypically spicy food is known around the country and world for its intense flavor, varying use of rice, and distinct, recognizable use of spices.
Origins
This unique cuisine was developed as low income workers made use of their available resources. In the deep south, this happened to be rice and sea food. Because they were so close to the Gulf of Mexico, farmers easily collected catfish, shrimp, crawfish, and oysters.
The Cajun Holy Trinity
One of the most important ingredients of a Cajun recipe is known as the "Holy Trinity." As the name implies, these three ingredients are essential for a quality, original Cajun recipe: celery, onions, and bell peppers. These ingredients were readily available to the farmers and poor workers who are hailed as the "inventors" of Cajun flavor.
Roux
Other parts of Cajun cuisine make use of garlic and other spices. A special ingredient in the creation of many Cajun foods is called "roux." Water, flour, and fat are combined to make a stew. Typically, seafood or chicken is added to the stew. This stew is very commonly served during special occasions, feasts, and celebrations such as Mardi Gras.
Creole- Cajun's Relative
A food that is very similar in style to Cajun is Louisiana Creole. This food was developed in the same area, around the same time as Cajun. However, it differs because of the influence of European cuisine on its development. Today, Creole is a much more upscale food served at fine dining establishments.
Cajun food can be found in the average city market as well as at finer facilities.
Influence of Cajun Food
Cajun food is world renowned for its interesting and tasty combination of spices, seafood, and other key ingredients. The tourism industry in the southern states of Mississippi, Louisiana, Georgia, and even Florida is fostered in part by the availability of Cajun foods. Many locals will note that the Cajun food varieties are some of the finest around, and attract the most visitors in that region of the country.
For more about Cajun food, including free recipes, visit the recipe page And http://www.explore-cajun-culture.com/cajun-recipes.html at Explore Cajun Culture.
Explore Cajun Culture is owned and built by Mary, a Cajun girl transplanted 500 miles from home. Still, she makes regular trips back to Cajun country to visit family and stock up on food essentials like roux, Cajun smoked sausage and boudin. Ramsy helps her out from time to time.

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