How to Prepare an Authentic Cajun Meal

An authentic Cajun meal is not for the faint of heart. The spicy tastes and unusual ingredients will not appeal to every diner. If, however, you have longed for a taste of the southern United States, Cajun cooking may be just what you want. You can easily learn to cook an authentic Cajun meal to share with your more adventurous friends.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Buy a black cast-iron pot. Most Cajun families have at least one large cast=iron pot that has been handed down for generations. Cooking in one will add authentic flavor to your Cajun meal.
2. Plan your menu. Recipes for authentic Cajun cooking are available at libraries and bookstores across the country. You can also scour the Internet for all types of Cajun recipes.
3. Choose one main dish, one rice or grain dish and one vegetable for a well-rounded Cajun meal. For example, shrimp gumbo, cornbread and garden butter beans would make a meal any Cajun cook would be proud of.
4. Experiment with your recipes. If you don't have an ingredient on hand, feel free to substitute something you like. Add more or less of ingredients you love or hate, generally personalizing your Cajun cooking.
5. Add dessert. Pecan pie, sweet potato pie and bread pudding are all examples of traditional, authentic Cajun desserts.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are reduced to buying a new cast-iron pot, be sure to season it before you use it. For help with this process, see eHow's, "How to Properly Season a Cast Iron Pan."
• See eHow's "How to Find Authentic Cajun Recipes" for help with planning your menu.