Ep 20. Spicy Mud's New Orleans Favorites

Valerie's Home Cooking season 6 episode 20, titled "Spicy Mud's New Orleans Favorites," is a tantalizing trip into the flavors of the Big Easy. Host Valerie Bertinelli is joined by Mudonna "Spicy Mud" Reed, a New Orleans native and caterer who brings her signature style to the kitchen.

The episode kicks off with Mudonna teaching Valerie how to make one of New Orleans' most famous dishes, gumbo. They start by making a roux, a mixture of flour and oil that forms the base of the dish. Mudonna shares her tips for achieving the perfect roux, including how to control the heat and how to stir it constantly to prevent burning. Once the roux is ready, they add in vegetables, chicken, andouille sausage, and seafood to create a hearty and flavorful gumbo.

Next up, Mudonna shows Valerie how to make jambalaya, another beloved New Orleans dish. They start by sautéing onions, peppers, and celery, then add in chicken, shrimp, and sausage. A generous amount of spices and herbs give the dish its signature flavor, and long-grain rice soaks up all the delicious juices.

For dessert, Valerie and Mudonna make pralines, a candy made with sugar, cream, and pecans. Mudonna shares her family recipe, which has been passed down for generations. They carefully heat the sugar to the right temperature, then add in the cream and pecans to create a rich and sweet treat.

Throughout the episode, Mudonna shares stories of her life in New Orleans and the influence that her hometown has had on her cooking. She also teaches Valerie some local slang, such as "lagniappe," which means "a little something extra."

To accompany the meal, Valerie mixes up a classic New Orleans cocktail, the Sazerac. Made with rye whiskey, sugar, bitters, and absinthe, it's a strong and flavorful drink that pairs perfectly with the spicy dishes.

As always, Valerie brings her own personal touch to the recipes, adding in her own tips and tricks along the way. Her warmth and humor make the episode feel like a visit with old friends, and viewers will come away feeling inspired to try their hand at the delicious and vibrant flavors of New Orleans.

Overall, "Spicy Mud's New Orleans Favorites" is a delightful celebration of one of America's most beloved culinary traditions. From gumbo to jambalaya to pralines, Mudonna and Valerie bring the rich and complex flavors of New Orleans to life, while sharing stories and laughs along the way. It's a must-see for anyone who loves food, culture, and good company.