French tarragon is an alluring aromatic herb, and when used with subtleness, it can turn most any humble dish–chicken especially–into a showcase of sublime flavor. But, I didn’t always cook with tarragon until one night I was properly introduced to a now-favorite recipe for Chicken Braised in Tarragon Cream. I recall dining years ago at…
Watermelon Bread
Watermelon stands lining the side of the rural parish roads are an especially Southern thing. Truckloads begin arriving as the temperature soars, and there is no better way to cool down than a slice of ice-cold watermelon on the back porch steps. Or maybe there is: Watermelon Bread – hot out of the oven. I’ve…
Blood Orange Salad
Blood orange. I just like the sound of it. A citrus so ripe, rich and juicy it bleeds flavor. It drips intense, acidic plasma that drains the life out of the fruit. Ok, so I’m dramatizing a bit. But, just a bit. These are orgasmic oranges with a bright and biting taste that begs for…
Chicken-Stuffed Bell Peppers with Maque Choux Sauce
When I saw the bin of ripe green bell peppers at my local farmer’s market, I immediately thought of stuffing them. In Cajun country, stuffing sweet peppers with ground anything is a basic Cajun recipe that every home cook knows by heart. Usually it’s a mixture of beef and pork sausage with just the right…
Apple Gateau with Calvados Crème Sauce
My Apple Gateau with Calvados Crème Sauce balances tart fruit with sweet creaminess against the delicate crumb of a perfectly baked cake. The French liqueur adds elegance that makes this a special occasion for any dinner. Plus, it’s simple to make. If you were to ask me why I love this Apple Gateau with Calvados…
Heirloom Tomato Soup
You say tomato, I say soup. It goes without saying that a steaming hot bowl of tomato soup is the ultimate comfort food. You know exactly what I mean–it feels warm and cozy just like that old pair of fur-lined slippers you refuse to throw out (c’mon, admit it). Tomato soup is quite good right…
Creole Snapper En Papillote
What is it about cooking en papillote (in a paper bag) that seems so civilized and celebratory? Cooking food in parchment paper wrapped tightly to hold in the steam and juices is a mainstream technique that is embraced by many culinary cultures. The Italians have their al cartoccio, but the French seem to seal the…
Crawfish Étouffée
Just think of it: Fresh Louisiana crawfish tail meat swimming in a lightly thickened butter sauce infused with spices and aromatics over a mound of white rice. This is the purest expression of Cajun cooking I know and love. It’s that time of year, and in case you missed it, here is my recipe. But…
Ponce Upon A Time: Sweet Potato-Stuffed Smoked Ponce
Long ago the French came to the bayous of Louisiana and brought with them a vast wealth of recipes. Over generations of influence, the tastes and flavors of most of those Cajun recipes have evolved. These classic Cajun recipes and the artisan skills that go into Louisiana’s culinary cultural uniqueness are fascinating to me. The…
The Long, Hot Simmer: Soulful Chicken Soup
Most every food culture takes pride in their version of chicken soup. It is as basic and fundamental a recipe as cooking gets. But, most folks haven’t a clue to how exceptionally delicious–no, heavenly–this dish can be. To learn the skill of making a rich, sublime soup of nothing more than chicken, vegetables, and water…
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