Dishes that represent the very heart and soul of the culinary spirit of Cajun Culture, from the chef who “was Cajun before Cajun was hot” (Anne Bryn, bestselling author of the Cake Mix Doctor series).
Chef Jude W. Theriot shares his list of core recipes that define the essence of Cajun cooking. Along the way he shares secrets, hints, and personal asides in his lagniappe, or “something extra,” sections. These helpful sections include freezer suggestions and, as in the case of Pain Perdu, explain how the dish got its name.
In recounting the history of the Cajuns from their Canadian beginnings through their migration south to Louisiana, Theriot conveys the spirit and resolve of a proud community. To know this spirit is to know what drives them to cook with such passion. From boiled crawfish, crabmeat au gratin, and shrimp gumbo to chicken étouffée, Chef Theriot has distilled the essence of Cajun cooking with his signature easy-to-follow, hearty recipes.
Jude W. Theriot, CCP, is a nationally renowned chef with expertise in preparing Louisiana regional cuisines. He has traveled the country promoting Cajun cooking and conducted cooking-school classes. Theriot has been featured on television and radio and in magazines and newspapers.