The spice of Cajun country is what
so many people seem to think of first when they hear the name
Louisiana and especially Cajun. There is a misconception that
"Cajun" means extremely spicy in all that is made but this isn't
the case. Cajun cooking is based on flavorful and somewhat spicy
recipe's but not an over the top use of it. we use just enough
spice and seasoning to bring out and amplify the taste of our
foods. There are many different styles and brands on Cajun
seasonings on the market so lets go over some of the more
popular ones and some that may be available where you live or
some you may like to order and try.
Tony Chachere's
This is probably the most famous of the Cajun seasoning name
brands and most likely one to be found in a supermarket near
you. Its found in homes across the area here and has a very well
rounded flavor and base. Its a very versatile seasoning and can
be used on just about anything to add some Cajun flavor. Its
built on a creole/Cajun seasoning base with salts / file/and
many more spices and herbs. If your looking for your first taste
of Cajun seasonings and flavor then this is a great place to
start.
Tabasco
Well i think just about everyone has head about "Tabasco". This
company has grown into a world wide enterprise offerings many
different Cajun pepper sauces and other various items. Located
in the heart of Cajun county on Avery Island they continue to
put out some of Louisiana best tasting items. The well known
"Tabasco Sauce" made now in red or green is a delightful
seasoning with a better than average burn to it and has become a
favorite across Cajun country. No mater which of the Tabasco
company products you decide to sample you wont be disappointed
as there quality is top shelf.
Zatarain's
A New Orleans based icon this company has continued to supply
some great Cajun and creole items throughout the years. They
offer great options in the Cajun and creole seasoning markets
along with many other products like boxed mixes for red
beans/seafood/gumbo/etouffee etc. There seasoning mixes are
based on recipe's from years of Cajun culture and offer a very
balanced blend that surely excites the taste buds. I surely
wouldn't pass on a chance to grab a taste of the Zatarains
product line.
Slap Ya MaMa
One of the newer seasoning brands on the scene in Louisiana they
are quickly catching up to the rest. They offer a very nice line
of Cajun seasoning blends including the original , white pepper
, seafood boil, and hot blend. Its a very versatile bunch of
blends and can easily find its way on almost anything to add
that great Cajun kick. Its got maybe a bit more kick to it than
some of the previously mentioned mixes but at same time isn't
over the top on the burn meter. This brand is starting to pop up
more and more across Cajun country at the dinner table and
cookouts.
These are some of the more
popular brands but there are many more local blends and mixes
that have been put together through out the years by the great
cooks of Cajun country. The taste of Louisiana and the Cajun
country knows no end . Hope you all Enjoy!
