Southern Cheese Straws

Southern Cheese Straws

Growing up in Louisiana, cheese straws -spicy, orange-cheddar, stick-shaped treats- were de rigueur on many party tables. I adore them, and this recipe, by Kim Severson, is the one I've found that most perfectly matches the taste-memory I have of the ones back home. This recipe is a snap to put together but pressing the dough through a cookie press can take some time. That said, double this recipe because I guarantee everyone will love these and eat more than they thought humanly possible.

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Red Beans and Rice, Louisiana Style

Red Beans and Rice, Louisiana Style

This is the best recipe I've found for recreating the wonderful Louisiana staple! I found this online but cannot for the life of me remember where. I've made only a few minor tweaks. Extras freeze well! Keep in mind that your dried beans will need to soak overnight and that once the dish is fully cooked, it's great to let it sit in the fridge overnight as the flavors will come together more fully.

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John’s Jambalaya

John’s Jambalaya

Jambalaya is a Creole specialty. Meat, traditionally tasso which is a cured ham from south Louisiana, is browned with onions, garlic and parsley and then cooked with rice and Creole spices. This is the recipe my Mom has been using as long as I can remember, and it is perfect! This is the recipe my Mom has been using as long as I can remember, and it is perfect!

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Rice or Cornbread Dressing, Louisiana-style

Rice or Cornbread Dressing, Louisiana-style

Growing up in a family with definite Cajun roots, our Thanksgiving and Christmas tables were chock full of incredible food, including rice and cornbread dressings. Dressings are southern versions of stuffings and use rice or cornbread in place of the bread. As with many Louisiana recipes, you start with a saute of the Trinity (celery, bell peppers and onions) and then add to that.

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