One of my favorite Mardi Gras traditions is king cake. Big rings of pillowy pastry with a sweet filling and a vividly decorated sugary frosting. My brother went to college and New Orleans, and during my first year at college in Connecticut, he shipped me a king cake and continued to do so while I was in school (and some years after). It was the classic cinnamon filling, which … [Read more...] about Savory Crawfish King Cake
Mardi Gras
Hot Crab Remoulade Dip
Mardi Gras is approaching, and like everything else these days, it’s going to be different. I won’t be celebrating with a big crowd, and in New Orleans the parades have been cancelled. But in true Mardi Gras spirit, the people of New Orleans have gotten creative this year, hiring local artists to decorate houses like parade floats. I encourage you to check out #yardigras and … [Read more...] about Hot Crab Remoulade Dip
Good Luck Gumbo (Black-Eyed Pea and Collard Green Gumbo)
I am reposting this New Year's Day favorite recipe again, because I think we could all use as much luck as we can get this year! I am not an overly suspicious person. Sure, I have my little quirks, but I don’t worry about black cats, walking under ladders, throwing spilled salt over my left shoulder. But there are a few traditions that I adhere to because, well, it can’t hurt. … [Read more...] about Good Luck Gumbo (Black-Eyed Pea and Collard Green Gumbo)
Crab Remoulade Cheesecake
I love a savory cheesecake. Possibly the most talked about recipe in my book Southern Snacks has been the Country Ham Cheesecake. I even made it on the Hallmark Channel! I find the savory cheesecake to be the perfect party piece – it packs a lot of flavor and interest in a make-ahead dish that serves a crowd. And it is easy to make it look really impressive if you get creative … [Read more...] about Crab Remoulade Cheesecake
Muffaletta Cheese Ball
Madi Gras is fast approaching, and even if you don’t live in a place that has a big Mardi Gras celebration, I have always thought it is a fabulous excuse for a party. We’ve made it through the crazy, busy holidays and had some January downtime. And I don’t mean some sort of wild bacchanalian revel. Just a cozy dinner with friends, full of amazing Louisiana cooking … [Read more...] about Muffaletta Cheese Ball