Chef's Notes Plus

All About Roux

If you’re feeling the spirit of Mardi Gras, you may be inspired to try your hand at a Cajun or Creole recipe, like gumbo or shrimp etouffee. The key to many of these flavorful, complex dishes is the roux, a cooked flour and fat mixture that thickens, colors, and flavors […]

Main Dishes

Crawfish Étouffée

Makes 4 to 6 servings Étouffée is the name given to dishes like this one that are gently cooked in a covered pot. Crawfish, or crayfish, are sold live or as cooked meat. If you buy crawfish meat, look for the words fat-on. Crawfish fat is an integral part of […]

Soups and Stews

Seafood Gumbo

Makes 8 servings Ingredients 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper Pinch freshly ground black pepper Pinch cayenne Pinch hot paprika Pinch dried thyme Pinch dried oregano 1 tablespoon canola oil or unsalted butter 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 1/2 cups diced onion 1 1/2 cups diced […]

Main Dishes

Vegetarian Dirty Rice

Makes 8 servings Ingredients 6 ounces pinto beans, canned 1/2 cup onion, diced 1/2 tablespoon garlic, minced 1 tablespoon peanut oil 1 1/2 cups vegetable stock 3/4 cup long grain rice 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar 2 teaspoons chipotle peppers, chopped 1 teaspoon cumin seeds Salt, […]