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Want to spice up dinner with some Cajun Seasoning?
Cajun Seasoning 2 tablespoons paprika 1-1/2 tablespoons salt 1 tablespoon garlic granules 1 tablespoon black pepper 1 tablespoon onion powder 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper 1 tablespoon dried leaf oregano 1 tablespoon dried leaf thyme 1-1/2 teaspoons basil 1 teaspoon allspice 1 teaspoon ground bay leaves Add to meat, poultry, fish, rice, soups, salads, and eggs for a spicy Louisiana cuisine flavor. Did you know? Cajun seasoning originates from the French-speaking Acadian or "Cajun" immigrants in the Acadiana region of Louisiana. Pronounced "Kay-Jun", it is what could be called a rustic cuisine — locally available ingredients predominate, and preparation is simple. An authentic Cajun meal is usually a three-pot affair, with one pot dedicated to the main dish, one dedicated to steamed rice, skillet cornbread, or some other grain dish, and the third containing whatever vegetable is plentiful or available. The aromatic vegetables bell pepper, onion, and celery are called by some chefs the holy trinity of Cajun cuisine. There is a common misconception outside of south Louisiana that Cajun food is hot and spicy. An authentic Cajun dish will usually have a bit of a "kick" but will not be eye-wateringly hot. The Cajun cook does not seek to overpower the dish with simple heat — this is done by the diner at the table if they so wish. Cayenne pepper is the predominate choice of heat during preparation, though ground black pepper, and to a lesser extent white pepper, are used as well. Cajun seasoning is sometimes confused with Creole seasoning, and many outside of Louisiana don't make the distinction. Creole is more city – urban, cosmopolitan, and inspired by the Spanish, Italian, and African influences of New Orleans – while Cajun dishes have more of a French influence, filtered through common (to Louisiana) ingredients and techniques. Traditional Cajun food
Gift Basket Idea
Use a large pasta bowl for a "basket". Fill with a package or two of gourmet pasta, tongs, a package of sun-dried tomatoes, extra-virgin olive oil, homemade seasonings: Cajun seasoning, chili seasoning, curry powder, a collection of your favorite pasta recipes hand-printed on recipe cards, and/or a pasta cookbook If you like my free recipes and would like to contribute, please leave a donation so you can enjoy the spirit of giving too. |