9 Iconic New Orleans Dishes That Still Hold Up To The Hype
By Jackie Ann|Published May 26, 2020
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Jackie Ann
Author
Louisiana native and LSU Alum (Geaux Tigers!), Jackie has lived in Louisiana for over three decades and currently lives in New Orleans. She's been writing for OnlyInYourState since 2016 and can often be found with a coffee at her side, dreaming of her next adventure.
There’s a reason people travel from all over the world to get a sample of what’s cooking in our kitchen. New Orleans has the lockdown when it comes to delicious food, and we are lucky enough to be able to enjoy these dishes whenever we’d like. Sure, some tend to get the reputation for being “tourist food,” but long before tourists, these nine iconic dishes were (and still are) enjoyed by New Orleanians for centuries. Here are nine iconic New Orleans dishes that still hold up to the hype.
Before it attracted thousands of tourists, beignets were (and still are) the start of many New Orleanian’s day. There’s a reason these tasty treats attract people from all over the globe, and one bite into a hot beignet and you’re hooked.
Every year when the first cold front sweeps through the Crescent City, New Orleanians fire up the stove and begin the time-consuming process of making a roux. While gumbo is certainly enjoyed year-round, there’s nothing like that first winter gumbo to ease into the season.
Invented in 1889 at the famous Antoine’s restaurant in the French Quarter, many have tried to duplicate this iconic dish. Named for the richness of the sauce, these tend to go fast when served at the table.
No matter how old you are, stepping up to this old-fashioned candy cart and getting your favorite flavor will always be a nostalgic treat. What’s your flavor: strawberry, chocolate, or vanilla?
This delicious dessert was actually invented right here in the Brennan’s kitchen in 1951 after Paul Brennan challenged his head chef to create a dish centered around bananas, which were readily available at the time. Watching your waiter make this flaming dish table side at Brennan’s should be on everyone bucket list.
When you need to feed a small army, jambalaya is your go-to dish. Not only is it filling and delicious, but it’s so versatile, you can constantly be tinkering with your recipe to fit anyone’s dietary restrictions.
A muffuletta from Central Grocery might just be one of the most iconic dishes in New Orleans, it’s certainly one of the biggest. Unless you’re really hungry, even half a sandwich is more than enough.
What’s your favorite iconic New Orleans dish? Do you have a restaurant you visit, or do you prefer to make it on your own? Let us know in the comments below!
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