River Watch Week – New Orleans District Nosh

With the Army Corps of Engineers taking the Flood Fight 2011 – Operation Watershed downriver we will take a culinary tour of the affected areas:

Monday – Memphis District Munchies – Elvis Meatloaf
Tuesday – Vicksburg District Vittles – Mississippi River Chicken & Dumplings
Wednesday – New Orleans District Nosh
Thursday – BBQ Byway
Fishy Friday River Style

Cheese Grits makes a soft landing for the bold regional flavors.

Here are some city classics and country favorites to add to your dinner plan on days you crave upscale creole as well as those you need down home comfort Cajun.

Menu

Creole vs. Cajun

The Roots of Cajun and Creole Cuisine – There are no quick listings of the difference… it’s a history lesson… but worth the read.

John Besh’s Creole Seasoning – great combination that is light on salt.

Grillades: Cajun vs. Creole – Nice explanation of how this dish differs from North to South and from back woods to country fair.

Entrée

Crawfish Etouffee – works for shrimp as well.

 

29 March Dinner News – Cuba

Carter in Cuba
Everything Old is New Again

Shredded beef braised in beer could be your dinner too.

With the former president traveling in Cuba this week take some time to prepare a Cuban dish or three to help enjoy today’s news:

The Meal

Entree

Picadillo – Ground beef and veggies served over rice or beans or both.
Guisado De Pollo – Chicken, green bean and olive stew.
Ropa Vieja – Slow cooked beef served shredded (pictured above)

Side Dish

Congri – Red beans and rice.
Empanada de Queso – Cheese turnovers.
Croquetas – Ham croquettes.