Pastalaya
The first time I heard the term pastalaya, I wasn’t quite sure what it entailed. Was it an island in the Mediterranean? An…
Red beans and boudin
A few years ago, some folks were discussing recipes they liked to prepare when it was cool outside. There were the usual mentions…
Boudin-stuffed jalapeno poppers
A friend was telling me about her family’s cook-out over the weekend. They had the traditional spread of grilled meats, beans, salads, and…
Country sausage ranchero tacos
The first time you order a country ranchero taco in San Antonio, if you’re from North Texas, you may be surprised to discover…
Spicy sweet potato sausage balls
From Thanksgiving to Christmas, it’s officially sausage ball season at my house. These savory snacks made from a blend of breakfast sausage, cheese,…
Boudin kolaches
When I recently went to go vote, there were boxes of kolaches at the polling station for people to snack on as they…
Black-eyed pea gumbo
Black-eyed peas have long been the dish of choice for Texans on New Year’s Day. While this humble field pea was once considered…
Corny dog tacos
When I walked into Resident Taqueria in the East Dallas neighborhood of Lake Highlands and saw that the day’s special day was a…
Pigs in jalapeño-cheddar pretzel blankets
Many years ago, a friend from Austin and I were taking the train from New York to Lancaster, Pennsylvania to see another friend…
Turkey and sausage jambalaya
Last weekend, I saw Willie Nelson for the first time. Considering his legendary status, it’s incredible to me I’d never been to one…