Cajun Food's Rich History

Cajun food has its roots in the deep south of Louisianamany Cajun foods is called "roux." Water, flour, and fat
and Mississippi. This stereotypically spicy food is knownare combined to make a stew. Typically, seafood or
around the country and world for its intense flavor,chicken is added to the stew. This stew is very
varying use of rice, and distinct, recognizable use ofcommonly served during special occasions, feasts, and
spices.celebrations such as Mardi Gras.
OriginsCreole- Cajun's Relative
This unique cuisine was developed as low incomeA food that is very similar in style to Cajun is Louisiana
workers made use of their available resources. In theCreole. This food was developed in the same area,
deep south, this happened to be rice and sea food.around the same time as Cajun. However, it differs
Because they were so close to the Gulf of Mexico,because of the influence of European cuisine on its
farmers easily collected catfish, shrimp, crawfish, anddevelopment. Today, Creole is a much more upscale
oysters.food served at fine dining establishments.
The Cajun Holy TrinityCajun food can be found in the average city market
One of the most important ingredients of a Cajunas well as at finer facilities.
recipe is known as the "Holy Trinity." As the nameInfluence of Cajun Food
implies, these three ingredients are essential for aCajun food is world renowned for its interesting and
quality, original Cajun recipe: celery, onions, and belltasty combination of spices, seafood, and other key
peppers. These ingredients were readily available toingredients. The tourism industry in the southern states
the farmers and poor workers who are hailed as theof Mississippi, Louisiana, Georgia, and even Florida is
"inventors" of Cajun flavor.fostered in part by the availability of Cajun foods.
RouxMany locals will note that the Cajun food varieties are
Other parts of Cajun cuisine make use of garlic andsome of the finest around, and attract the most
other spices. A special ingredient in the creation ofvisitors in that region of the country.