The important role of crawfish in Cajun cuisine is due to the delicious bite-sized protein that pairs perfectly with Cajun seasonings and spices, creating dishes that warm the soul and satisfy the tastebuds. Whether you call them crawdads, crayfish, mudbugs or crawfish doesn’t matter as they are the same thing and are a favorite option for Houstonians when they are in season.
The Allure of Crawfish in Cajun Cuisine
Cajun cuisine’s roots can be traced to the French and Canadians who relocated to the southern U.S. This type of food was often put together by fisherman and farmers who gathered meal ingredients, including crawfish. Cooking was fairly simplified with everything often being made all in one pot, including the roux, holy trinity (peppers, onions, and celery), and plenty of spices to bring the heat.
Many Cajun dishes begin with a base known as roux, which is a delicious mix of seasoned flour and fat that is slowly combined and stirred until it reaches a rich brown color and the perfect thickness. This base is used in various stews and sauces, many of which include crawfish, such as such gumbo, etouffee and jambalaya.
Popular Cajun Dishes Featuring Crawfish
Crawfish is a key ingredient in Cajun dishes because it pairs so well with the other ingredients while still packing a punch in terms of protein. Here are some of the most popular crawfish-based dishes served in our Houston restaurants:
- Boiled Crawfish Combo. Two pounds of delicious, boiled crawfish are served with a side of corn on the cob and red skinned potatoes. Guests get to choose the exact flavor and heat level they prefer.
- Crawfish Tails Combo. This combo is a savory favorite that features four ounces of crawfish tails that have been battered, seasoned and deep fried. It comes with a side of your choice and a piece of garlic toast. For those with a heartier appetite, the large Crawfish Tails Combo comes with six meaty ounces of crawfish.
- Crawfish Etouffee. Delight in a delectable smothering sauce served up with four ounces of crawfish tails, white rice, and a piece of garlic toast.
- Crawfish Tail Po’Boy. If you want something you can eat with your hands, consider ordering this fantastic po’boy with Cajun flair that also comes with a side.
- This Cajun favorite starts with a delicious homemade dark roux and features the holy trinity and two proteins of your choice (including crawfish when in season) served with a side of crackers.
- Cajun Fried Rice. This savory dish is similar to what you’d expect, but it features a flavor profile that you won’t taste anywhere else, and the addition of one or two types of protein can make this dish a meal in itself.
Pro tip for crawfish fans, turn up the heat and taste of your food for some extra fire and don’t forget to pair with one of our savory dips and any of our mouthwatering sides.
What are the Health Benefits of Crawfish?
Not only are crawfish one of the most celebrated types of seafood for gatherings, but they also come with an impressive nutritional profile. Crawfish are:
- a good source of protein (just three ounces generally yields 14 grams)
- low in fat and saturated fat
- low in calories
- an excellent source of vitamins and minerals (including Iron, Calcium, Selenium, Potassium, Zinc, and Vitamins A, B and E)
- packed with Omega-3 fatty acids that are good for the heart and brain
With this type of nutritional value, paired with a delicious flavor, it is easy to see why crawfish is a favorite ingredient in many Cajun dishes.
When crawfish season arrives, it’s time to visit one of 7Spice Cajun Seafood’s Houston locations to feed the craving. Try one or more of our most frequently ordered Cajun crawfish dishes for dine-in or takeout.
Just as crawfish has an important role in Cajun cuisine, our delicious menu items can play an important role in your next celebration or holiday get together. Give us a call today to learn how we can make your next gathering one to remember, whether you choose to serve crab legs, gumbo or crawfish etouffee.