Three Traditional Spices Used in Cajun Cooking

1. Three Traditional Spices Used in
Cajun Cooking
By: Jacquelyn D Kirkland

2. Three Traditional Spices Used in Cajun Cooking
Jacquelyn D. Kirkland cites legendary chefs Dorie Greenspan and Julia Child as her inspiration for
French home cooking. Jacquelyn D. Kirkland also became interested in Louisiana Cajun cuisine
after experimenting with recipes created by New Orleans chefs John Besh and Paul Prudhommes.

3. Three Traditional Spices Used in Cajun Cooking
Distinct to Louisiana, Cajun cuisine reflects the state’s Indigenous, African, and European
influences. Some of the most traditional flavors found in Cajun cooking include the following
spices:

4. Three Traditional Spices Used in Cajun Cooking
1. White pepper. White pepper is made from fermented ripe pepper berries and is often used in
French cooking. While white and black peppercorns grow from the same plant, the former has a
milder and earthier flavor.

5. Three Traditional Spices Used in Cajun Cooking
2. Cayenne pepper. Powder made from these spicy peppers often make up the base of Cajun
seasoning blends. Cayenne has been used by Indigenous people as both a flavor enhancer and a
pain reliever for thousands of years.

6. Three Traditional Spices Used in Cajun Cooking
3. Cumin. Cumin is commonly added to dishes from Indian, Latin American, and Northern African
cuisines. Made from ground plant seeds, cumin introduces a slightly bitter taste to gumbo, one of
the most well-known Cajun specialties.