Mardi Gras Recipes



Since moving into our house (almost a year ago!), the hubby and I have been wanting to host more dinner parties.  (Actually, I have been wanting to host more dinner parties, and Jaycob tolerates the idea because it means a good meal and some booze without having to leave the comfort of his own sofa.)  This week we spontaneously hosted a Mardi Gras party.  It was a fun night all around, complete with beads, King Cake, a big band jazz Pandora station, cocktails, and good company.
Let the Good Times Roll!

Festive Center Pieces

Cheers!
Here is a list of the recipes I used for this year's Mardi Gras feast:
Jambalaya with Shrimp and Ham
Cajun Red Beans and Rice
Cajun Corn Maque Choux (I made mine vegetarian)
Cream Cheese King Cake
Bourbon Bread Pudding
I made an extra King Cake to bring to work and I was surprised to learn that many people have never heard of this delectable tradition.  So what is a King Cake, you ask?  While they vary greatly in flavor and appearance depending on regional traditions, King Cakes are usually circular-shaped pastries that come in a variety of flavors (such as cinnamon or coconut) and may have some type of filling (cream cheese, fruit, or praline, for example).  There are various cultural traditions around the world that revolve around a King Cake.  In New Orleans, King Cakes are a big deal between Epiphany and Fat Tuesday and are decorated with sprinkles in the colors of Mardi Gras (purple, green and gold).

 Cheers!



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