If you’re visiting Louisiana, the first thing you’ll notice is how incredible the food is! Restaurants here specialise in Cajun and Creole foods, which are two distinct cultures. Although similar to Creole cuisine, Cajun dishes are a cuisine all unto themselves. The word “Cajun” originates from the term “les Acadians,” who were French settlers who made their way to Canada. They were eventually exiled and relocated to lower Louisiana in the late 1700’s, where they would begin to be known as Cajuns.
This unique tradition of French and Louisiana influences merged for robust, rustic dishes that are full of bold flavours. Expect meat-heavy, one-pot dishes like jambalaya or the rice-filled, spicy pork sausage known as boudin.
One of the simplest differences between the two cuisine types is that Creole food typically uses tomatoes and tomato-based sauces while traditional Cajun food does not. A key base of most Cajun recipes is the “Cajun Trinity”, which is a tasty medley of chopped onion, celery and green pepper.
We’re sharing some of the best classic Cajun dishes. These recipes aren’t just any recipes either, as they have been created by the world’s top food bloggers. The best of the best. Make sure check out the other great dishes on their sites too.
Best Cajun Dishes
1. Cajun Jambalaya
This dish is is surprisingly easy to make, and is customisable with your favorite proteins (this recipe uses chicken, shrimp and Andouille sausage), and full of bold, zesty, Cajun jambalaya flavors that everyone will love.
Recipe is by Gimme Some Oven.
2. Spicy Grilled Okra
Grilled okra is the perfect side to just about anything you’d toss on the grill: burgers, sausage, fish, chicken, etc. The smoked paprika adds a smokey flavor, which pairs so perfectly with the charred bits from the grill.
Recipe by Bunsen Burner Bakery.
3. Easy Cajun Chicken
For this simple Cajun chicken, you can buy whatever brand you can find at the grocery store and throw it on, which makes this recipe even easier! But if it makes you feel more authentic, by all means use the recipe to make your own Cajun spice blend – it’s delicious either way.
Recipe is by I Breath I’m Hungry.
4. Shrimp Po’Boy
This Shrimp Po’ Boys recipe is so delicious! Freshly fried, crunchy buttermilk shrimp piled high on soft french rolls and topped with ripe tomatoes, crunchy shredded lettuce and spicy mayo.
Recipe by No.2 Pencil.
5. Chicken Fricassee
This chicken fricassee recipe is huge on flavour with cuts of chicken smothered and cooked slow in a rich and creamy sauce with the perfect Cajun seasonings. Easy to make and absolutely delicious.
Recipe created by Mike.
6. Blackened Fish Sandwich
This is one of those meals that sounds really complex, but is super simple with just a little bit of prep. Make a homemade seasoning blend, spiced to your taste, cook some fish and round out the sandwich with a simple lemon slaw.
Recipe created by Marni.
7. Cajun Mac And Cheese
Cajun Mac and Cheese has andouille sausage, bacon, and tons of flavor. This deliciously loaded mac and cheese recipe delivers just the right Cajun kick to this classic dish.
Recipe created by Erica.
