Ep 10. Cajun Cookouts

Man, Fire, Food season 2 episode 10 named Cajun Cookouts ventures into the heart of Louisiana, where the Cajun cuisine is a unique blend of French, African, and Native American influence. Host Roger Mooking travels to different family-owned farms, ranches, and restaurants that are famous for their traditional Cajun cookouts.

In the first segment, Mooking heads to Mowata, where he meets the Brasseaux family, who have been farming crawfish for over 80 years. Roger learns about the traditional crawfish boil, where the crawfish are boiled in a large pot with vegetables and Cajun spices, giving it a smoky and spicy flavor. Roger helps the family with their crawfish boil, which includes not only crawfish but also corn, potatoes, and sausage, creating a hearty and flavorful dish.

Next, Roger travels to the Chauvin area, where he visits the market, which is the heart of the Cajun community, where people gather to share food, drinks, and stories. He meets chef Cody Carroll, who shows him how to make his signature dish, Cochon de Lait, a smoked pork dish that is slow-cooked in a pit until it is tender and juicy. Cody cooks the pork using a variety of flavored woods, such as pecan and oak, giving it a smoky flavor. The Cochon de Lait is served with potatoes, corn, and a side of homemade apricot sauce, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

In the final segment, Roger heads to Breaux Bridge, where he meets the Meche family, who own a ranch and cook up a storm during their weekend cookouts. The Meche family show Roger how to make their famous Boudin, a sausage made with pork, liver, and rice, flavored with Cajun spices and cooked over a wood fire until it is crispy outside and juicy inside. Roger also learns how to make grilled alligator, a staple in Cajun cuisine, which is marinated in Cajun spices and cooked on an open flame, giving it a smoky and peppery flavor.

Throughout the episode, Roger explores the traditional Cajun cuisine and the importance of fire in creating bold and flavorful dishes. The Cajun Cookouts episode is a tribute to the Cajun community and their beloved dishes that are packed with rich history and flavors that have been passed down from generation to generation.