Tag: Louisiana cooking

Fall in Love with this Sweet Potato Spice Cake Delight

Indulge your senses with a delectable creation that transcends the ordinary – Sweet Potato Spice Cake. This moist and flavorful treat is a harmonious blend of warm spices like cinnamon and ginger, perfectly complemented by the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. Whether it’s a cozy autumn evening or a sunny summer day, this cake recipe from Louisiana Cookin is a versatile delight for every season. Follow along as we guide you through the steps of creating this heavenly dessert, complete with a luscious Browned Butter Frosting and a delightful garnish of chopped toasted walnuts.

Sweet Potato Spice Cake Ingredients:

  • 1¼ pounds sweet potatoes, thoroughly rinsed
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup whole buttermilk
  • ½ cup softened unsalted butter
  • 1⅓ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup firmly packed light brown sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Garnish: chopped toasted walnuts

Browned Butter Frosting Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
  • 1 cup softened unsalted butter
  • 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cane syrup
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Directions:

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy clean-up.
  2. Pierce the sweet potatoes all over with a fork and place them on the prepared pan. Bake until fork-tender, approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Once done, let them cool enough to handle, then peel and discard the skins. Mash the flesh with a potato masher, reserving 1½ cups for the cake. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F.
  3. Spray a 9-inch round cake pan with baking spray that includes flour. In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened butter and sugars at medium speed until fluffy, taking about 3 to 4 minutes. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla until combined.
  4. In a separate medium bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and pepper. Gradually add this flour mixture to the butter mixture alternately with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Beat at low speed just until combined after each addition. Stir in the reserved 1½ cups of sweet potato until well combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
  5. Bake until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean, which should take about 35 to 40 minutes. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
  6. Once cooled, place the cake on a cake plate and generously spread the Browned Butter Frosting on top. For an extra touch of decadence, garnish with chopped toasted walnuts.
  7. For the Browned Butter Frosting, in a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir occasionally and let it cook until the butter turns a medium-brown color, emitting a delightful nutty aroma. This process usually takes about 10 minutes. Remove it from the heat and allow it to cool completely.
  8. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the browned butter, confectioners’ sugar, cream, cane syrup, and salt at low speed until well combined, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Increase the mixer speed to medium and continue beating until the frosting becomes fluffy, about 2 more minutes.

Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of Sweet Potato Spice Cake, a delightful dessert that transcends seasons. With the warmth of cinnamon and ginger dancing on your taste buds and the sweet embrace of mashed sweet potatoes, this cake is a celebration of taste and texture. Top it off with the velvety Browned Butter Frosting and a sprinkle of toasted walnuts for a truly divine experience.

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Oysters and Bacon Make for a Perfect Pairing in This Recipe

Indulge your taste buds with the irresistible combination of oceanic flavors and the smoky essence of bacon in this Bacon-Wrapped Oysters with Cane Syrup Glaze recipe from Louisiana Cookin. This dish is a symphony of textures and tastes, featuring plump, medium-sized oysters cocooned in the embrace of thick-cut bacon, elevated with a luscious cane syrup glaze. The result? A culinary masterpiece that’s sure to leave your guests craving more.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to a toasty 400°F. To prepare for the culinary adventure, line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
  2. Take each medium-sized oyster and lovingly wrap it with a half slice of thick-cut bacon. Secure this flavorful embrace with a wooden pick, ensuring the ingredients stay close-knit throughout the cooking process.
  3. Now, let’s delve into the magic of the cane syrup glaze. In a petite bowl, artfully stir together cane syrup, ½ teaspoon of Creole seasoning, finely chopped rosemary, dry mustard, and a pinch of crushed red pepper. With a culinary brush, generously coat each bacon-wrapped oyster with half of this tantalizing glaze, placing them on the prepared rack for the next step.
  4. Bake your creations until they reach a golden brown perfection, typically taking around 10 to 15 minutes. But we’re not done yet – brush the remaining half of the cane syrup mixture onto your bacon-wrapped wonders and let them dance in the oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until crispy and beautifully caramelized.
  5. In a separate bowl, create a dipping sauce that complements the rich flavors of the dish. Combine mayonnaise, finely chopped green onion, Creole mustard, vinegar, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of Creole seasoning. This zesty concoction is the perfect partner for your bacon-wrapped oysters.
  6. To serve, arrange your delectable creations on a platter, accompanied by the prepared dipping sauce. For a finishing touch, garnish with sliced green onions and sprigs of fresh rosemary. These visually appealing additions not only elevate the presentation but also enhance the overall dining experience.

Serving Suggestions:

Elevate your culinary experience by pairing these Bacon-Wrapped Oysters with Cane Syrup Glaze with thoughtfully chosen side dishes. These accompaniments are designed to enhance the flavors and create a harmonious symphony on your plate.

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: Indulge in creamy garlic parmesan mashed potatoes for a comforting and decadent side. The velvety texture and savory notes provide a satisfying contrast to the crispy bacon and succulent oysters.

Arugula Citrus Salad: Introduce a refreshing contrast with an arugula citrus salad. The peppery arugula combined with the vibrant citrus vinaigrette offers a light and tangy counterpart to the rich and smoky notes of the bacon-wrapped oysters.

Now, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a special meal for your loved ones, you have the tools to create a memorable dining experience that goes beyond expectations. Enjoy the journey of flavors and textures as you savor every bite of this exceptional dish. Bacon-Wrapped Oysters with Cane Syrup Glaze is not just a dish; it’s an experience for the senses. From the briny essence of the oceanic treasures to the smoky allure of bacon, every bite is a journey into gastronomic bliss. Impress your guests and elevate your culinary repertoire with this sophisticated yet approachable recipe.

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Autumn Eats: Embrace the Season with Shrimp Soup

Autumn is a season of transition, as we bid farewell to the sizzling days of summer and welcome the crisp, cool embrace of fall. It’s a time when nature’s bounty is at its peak, and we can savor the delightful flavors that come with it. One such delicacy that shines in early autumn is the white shrimp. These tasty crustaceans are celebrated for their sweet flavor and tender texture, making them a perfect choice for a heartwarming dish that eases you into the cozier months. Today, we’re bringing you a recipe that’s bound to become a fall favorite – Autumn Shrimp Soup, courtesy of Louisiana Cookin.

Ingredients for Shrimp Soup:

Directions for Shrimp Soup:

  1. Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of butter and fresh lemon juice in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your peeled and deveined shrimp to the pot and cook them until they turn pink and firm, which should take about 3 minutes. Once they’re cooked to perfection, transfer the shrimp to a warm plate using a slotted spoon.
  2. In the same pot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Throw in your diced celery and carrots, allowing them to cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, add the sweet yellow onions, cooking for an additional 4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Now, it’s time to introduce the fresh yellow corn and minced garlic. Cook for 1 more minute, giving an occasional stir to blend the flavors.
  3. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and continue to cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Stir in the dry white wine and scrape up all those wonderful browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. Gradually add the seafood stock, stirring until everything is beautifully combined. Bring this aromatic mixture to a boil.
  4. Now, it’s time to incorporate the hearty components of this soup. Add the diced russet potatoes, drained diced tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and a touch of crushed red pepper. Let it all simmer until the potatoes reach a delightful tenderness, which should take approximately 15 minutes.
  5. Lower the heat to medium-low and return the cooked shrimp to the pot, allowing them to simmer until they’re heated through – this will take about 5 minutes. Your Autumn Shrimp Soup is now ready to be enjoyed.

As the autumn season unfolds and the evenings grow cooler, there’s nothing quite like savoring a warm, hearty bowl of Autumn Shrimp Soup. This dish combines the sweet and tender nature of Louisiana shrimp with the rich flavors of fall, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that you’ll want to enjoy over and over again.So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this delightful fall twist on a classic. With these step-by-step instructions, you’re well on your way to a flavorful autumn experience. Embrace the changing seasons with a bowl of our homemade Autumn Shrimp Soup – it’s a culinary journey you won’t want to miss. Happy cooking!

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Spice Up Your Meal with Cajun Twist on Mac and Cheese

Looking to add a little kick to your mac and cheese? We’ve got just the recipe for you! This recipe for Cajun Macaroni and Cheese from LouisianaCookin takes the classic comfort food to a whole new level with the bold flavors of andouille sausage, Cajun seasoning, and a blend of creamy cheeses. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for those times when you want something hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients for Cajun Mac and Cheese: 

Directions for Cajun Mac and Cheese: 

  1. Begin by heating up a large skillet over medium heat. Add your andouille sausage slices and let them sizzle until they’re lightly browned, which should take about 2 minutes. Once they’ve got that irresistible color, toss in your finely chopped red and green bell peppers. Cook this vibrant mix until the peppers turn tender and aromatic, about 6 minutes.
  2. It’s time to introduce some magic to the skillet. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and Cajun seasoning. Keep that spoon moving as you stir constantly for the next 2 minutes. This step is key to developing the rich, savory flavors that make Cajun cuisine so special.
  3. Gradually, like a Louisiana bayou filling with flavor, pour in the quart of whole milk. Stir occasionally, and watch as your mixture thickens and becomes beautifully bubbly. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, and now comes the cheesy crescendo. Add the shredded American cheese and the mild Cheddar cheese. Keep stirring tirelessly until the cheeses melt into velvety perfection, creating a creamy symphony of flavor.
  4. Your pasta has been patiently waiting for its moment in the spotlight. Add the cooked and warm elbow pasta to the cheese sauce, gently stirring everything together. It’s a harmonious marriage of textures and tastes that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Serving Suggestions:

Now that your Cajun Macaroni and Cheese is ready to shine, you might be wondering what to serve alongside this spicy sensation. Here are a few side dishes that will complement this dish beautifully:

  • Crispy Cajun Okra: Sliced okra coated in a Cajun-spiced cornmeal batter, deep-fried until golden and crunchy.
  • Zesty Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the heat of the mac and cheese.
  • Southern Cornbread: A slice of buttery, slightly sweet cornbread is the perfect accompaniment.
  • Creole Salad: A colorful medley of tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, drizzled with a zesty Creole dressing.
  • Garlic Butter Green Beans: Sauteed green beans with a garlic butter sauce for a touch of green freshness.

Cajun Macaroni and Cheese is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary journey that marries the comforts of home with the vibrant spirit of Cajun cuisine. With its creamy, cheesy allure and that unmistakable Cajun kick, this recipe has the power to transform your mealtime into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re serving it as the star of your dinner table or sharing it at your next gathering, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone craving for seconds. The flavors of andouille sausage, Cajun seasoning, and the rich, creamy cheese sauce blend together harmoniously, creating a taste sensation that transcends ordinary mac and cheese. So, don’t wait any longer; give this Cajun Macaroni and Cheese recipe a try and embark on a culinary adventure that will satisfy your cravings and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the bold and delicious world of Cajun cooking.

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The Perfect Cheesy Andouille Sausage Dip

If you’re in search of the perfect party appetizer or game day snack, look no further. Today, we’re sharing a mouthwatering recipe for Cheesy Andouille Dip from LouisianaCookin that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. This flavorful dip combines the irresistible crunch of crispy andouille sausage with the creamy goodness of cheese and a hint of spice. It’s so easy to make that it feels like cheating, but the result is a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Start by reserving ½ cup of sliced andouille. You’ll need it for later. In an 8-inch cast-iron skillet, cook the remaining andouille pieces over medium heat until they’re browned and crispy, which should take about 10 minutes. If necessary, you can cook them in batches. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the andouille and let them drain on paper towels. Afterward, wipe the skillet clean and allow it to cool.
  2. Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until you achieve a smooth mixture. Add in ¾ cup of the shredded Cheddar, ¾ cup of the shredded mozzarella,the drained tomatoes with green chiles, sliced green onions, and Creole seasoning. Stir until everything is well combined. Now, fold in the cooked andouille pieces until they’re evenly distributed.
  3. Take an 8-inch cast-iron skillet and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Transfer the dip mixture into the prepared skillet. To finish it off, top the dip with the remaining ¼ cup of Cheddar, ¼ cup of mozzarella, and the reserved ½ cup of andouille.
  4. Bake the dip in the preheated oven until it turns golden brown and delightfully bubbly, which should take approximately 25 to 30 minutes. After baking, allow it to stand for 10 minutes. If desired, you can blot any excess oil with a paper towel.
  5. To serve, provide corn chips and potato chips alongside the dip. For an extra touch of freshness and presentation, garnish the dip with sliced green onions.

Side Dish Suggestions:

Cheesy Andouille Dip is a crowd-pleaser on its own, but you can elevate your snack spread with some tasty side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

  • Fresh Vegetable Platter: Serve a colorful assortment of fresh veggies like celery sticks, carrot strips, and bell pepper slices for a refreshing contrast to the cheesy dip.
  • Crunchy Pretzel Bites: Pretzel bites make a fantastic dip companion. Their saltiness pairs perfectly with the creamy dip.
  • Sliced Baguette: Toasted baguette slices or breadsticks are great for scooping up the cheesy goodness.
  • Fruit Platter: Balance out the richness of the dip with a fruit platter featuring apple slices, grapes, and pear wedges.
  • Pickles and Olives: Tangy pickles and briny olives can provide a zesty contrast to the dip’s flavors.

Cheesy Andouille Dip is the kind of dish that brings people together. With its rich and savory flavors, it’s perfect for parties, game nights, or simply indulging in a cozy night at home. Whether you’re a cheese lover, a spice enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates good food, this dip won’t disappoint. Whip up a batch of this Cheesy Andouille Dip,and let the compliments roll in at your next gathering. Happy dipping!

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Finger Food with a Kick: Fried Crawfish Étouffée Ball Recipe

If you’re a fan of Cajun flavors and crave a delightful twist on traditional Crawfish Étouffée, you’re in for a treat. LouisianaCookin  presents a delicious recipe for Fried Crawfish Étouffée Balls that combines the rich, savory goodness of Étouffée with the satisfying crunch of fried perfection. These delectable bites are perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply indulging in a unique Louisiana-inspired dish. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to create these irresistible Crawfish Étouffée balls, along with a zesty chipotle ranch dressing for dipping. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

Quick Étouffée Ingredients

  • 1 pound of succulent crawfish tail meat
  • ¾ cup finely chopped onion
  • ¾ cup finely chopped celery
  • ¾ cup finely chopped green bell pepper
  • ½ cup of unsalted butter
  • 1 ½ tablespoons of all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon of Creole seasoning (try Tony Chachere’s for an authentic touch)
  • ½ teaspoon of salt
  • ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper

Fried Crawfish Étouffée Balls Ingredients

  • 2 cups of Quick Crawfish Étouffée (recipe above)
  • 2 cups of cooked and cooled jasmine rice
  • 2 ¼ cups of plain breadcrumbs (divided)
  • ½ cup of chopped green onion
  • 4 large eggs (divided)
  • 1 cup of whole milk
  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons of hot sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
  • Peanut oil (for frying)
  • ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon of salt

Chipotle Ranch Dressing Ingredients

Directions:

  1. In a generous-sized pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for approximately 10 minutes until the mixture turns a rich peanut butter color.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 6 minutes until the vegetables become tender. Mix in the crawfish tail meat, salt, black pepper, and Creole seasoning. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and allow it to simmer for 15 minutes. Let the Étouffée cool completely before using it to make the balls. You can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 6 months.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the Quick Crawfish Étouffée, ¼ cup of breadcrumbs, jasmine rice, chopped green onion, hot sauce, salt, cayenne pepper, and 2 beaten eggs. Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 eggs and milk. Place the all-purpose flour in another medium bowl, and the remaining 2 cups of breadcrumbs in a third medium bowl. Shape the Étouffée mixture into golf-ball-sized rounds. Roll each ball in the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally the bread crumbs. Place them on a baking sheet and refrigerate until firm, or up to 24 hours (see note below).
  5. In a food processor, combine the ranch dressing, chipotle peppers in adobo, minced garlic, seasoned salt, and ground black pepper. Pulse until the dressing mixture is well combined. Set it aside.
  6. In a large pot or Dutch oven, pour peanut oil to a depth of 4 inches. Heat it over medium heat until a deep-fry thermometer reads 350º F. Fry the Étouffée balls in batches for approximately 3 minutes or until they turn a golden brown hue. Serve these delightful balls hot with the chipotle ranch dressing mixture for dipping.

Serving Suggestion:

These Fried Crawfish Étouffée Balls are a scrumptious delight on their own, but you can elevate your meal by serving them with classic Creole sides like red beans and rice, collard greens, or cornbread. Don’t forget a refreshing beverage like sweet tea or a crisp lager to balance the heat!

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