13 Louisiana Staples You Should Have Tried By Now

Louisiana is known for our cuisine. People come from all over the world to try it. If you've lived in Louisiana for any length of time, you should have tried these classics by now. How many have you tried?

1. Red Beans & Rice

It’s everyone’s favorite Monday night meal. Bonus points if you soak the beans the night before.

2. Jambalaya

It’s the Creole’s version of paella, and it’s one of the top 5 famous dishes Louisiana is known for.

3. Meat Pie

The classic Natchitoches meat pie is one of Louisiana’s most beloved snacks. They’re the perfect grab-and-go meal and you can frequently find them at festivals because they’re so portable, but if you want the real deal there’s only one place—Lasyone’s in Natchitoches.

4. Beignets

More of a New Orleans treat, but a beignet from Cafe du Monde should be on everyone’s bucket list!

5. Coffee with Chicory

It’s the perfect combination to enjoy your beignets with.

6. Crawfish

Crawfish season is right around the corner, y’all! The best crawfish boils are in your backyard with your friends eating crawfish on a table covered in newspaper.

7. Gumbo

Every Louisiana worth their salt has their own recipe (usually passed down the family line) and a big "gumbo pot."

8. King Cake

During Mardi Gras season, there’s a king cake in everyone’s office.

9. Po-boy

Shrimp, oyster, roast beef, or any combination, everyone who has spent a substantial amount of time in Louisiana has had one of these delicious sandwiches.

10. Crawfish Étouffée

Another classic dish Louisianian’s just couldn’t live without.

11. Boudin

Served a links or boudin balls, these Cajun delicacies are packed with a flavor you can only find in Louisiana.

12. Pralines

French settlers brought the recipe to Louisiana, and in the 19th-century New Orleans added cream as a thickener, and our famous little Pecan pralines were born.

13. Muffuletta

Invented by Central Grocery in New Orleans, these massive sandwiches are usually served in whole, half, or quarter sizes.