One of the biggest political issues sweeping the nation these days is the legalization or decriminalization of marijuana. It began in 1996 when California voters passed Proposition 215, which allowed for the medical use of marijuana. Today, 23 states, the District of Columbia and Guam all have enacted legislation that […]
Without ’em, we’re gone pecan!
Properly pronounced “puh-kahn,” this spectacularly delectable nut has long been a staple of Southern cuisine. Just one of these enduring trees from the hickory family can produce “fruit” for over 300 years and while Louisiana may not produce the most pecans in the country (though we’re in the top three), […]
A leaf of a (slightly) different color
In New Orleans, the month of March is full of special events and holidays. After weeks filled with carnival parades, the city is still raring to go with things like Super Sunday, the Tennessee Williams Literary Festival, Hogs for the Cause, the Buku Music + Art Project, St. Joseph’s Day […]
Shout out for Sandwiches
Whether it be a sloppy, 10-napkin-needing roast beef or an overstuffed, fully dressed fried shrimp, New Orleans has a well-deserved reputation for offering outstanding po-boys. Practically synonymous with the Crescent City, po-boys were born here and there’s nowhere in the world that can make French bread (mandatory for the perfect […]
Finding cash for doberge
Whether you pronounce it “doe-berj” or “dough-bash,” doberge cake is likely one of the most appreciated and desired, locally-invented dessert that’s perfect for almost any special occasion. A lot of outsiders, no matter how many times they’ve visited New Orleans, don’t even know about this many-layered, custard-filled wonder … and […]
A bone to pick
Easily one of the best television shows of all time, AMC’s The Walking Dead recently aired the first episode of what is likely to be a stellar fifth season. It seems folks can’t get enough of this gritty, well-written and well-produced show with an excellent cast and gruesome special effects. […]
Magical, marvelous muffins
“Be a muffin in a world of cupcakes.” -Unknown A friend of mine has a t-shirt that reads “Muffins are just ugly cupcakes.” Beneath the text is a prissy, pink cupcake sporting swirled icing and bright sprinkles sneering at a forlorn, brown muffin. While I found the quip (and the […]
Breakfast!
“One should not attend even the end of the world without a good breakfast.” -Robert A. Heinlein When I consider how breakfast has changed over the years, I’m reminded of a scene from the movie “Pleasantville.” For those unfamiliar with the film, the story is about a brother and sister […]
Where to dip your chip
Due to its overwhelming presence at football games, guacamole has become one of the most popular dips with Americans consuming millions of pounds of avocados during every season. I can’t help wondering if the ancient Aztecs, who first created guacamole sometime in the 16th century, carried around bowls of the […]
Summer Crab
Let’s be honest, summertime in New Orleans leaves a lot to be desired. Sweltering heat and humidity keep tourists away and drive locals indoors where they can crank up the air conditioning and sip iced drinks. Summer also means constant downpours that flood the city, electrifying (and sometimes terrifying) thunderstorms, […]
Eat the bunny
Last year, Mattel, Inc. had a huge promotional campaign to “Save the Bunny.” Not only was Mattel furthering its own agenda by increasing toy sales, but they used childhood obesity as an excuse for parents to forgo the tradition of chocolate Easter bunnies. Because folks like to “jump on the […]
Cinco ceviches por favor
When the weather heats up and the days get longer, all I can think about is relaxing outside with a pitcher of sangria, crisp tortilla chips and a heap of heavenly ceviche. Ceviche, in all of its forms, seems somehow representative of tropical vacations and warm ocean breezes with its […]