Cover Image Credit: Photo: Victor Protasio; Food Styling: Rishon Hanners; Prop Styling: Audrey Davis @southernliving
Mardi Gras, or "Fat Tuesday," is more than just a colorful parade—it’s a centuries-old tradition deeply rooted in history and food. Celebrated with grandeur in New Orleans, this iconic festival traces its origins back to medieval Europe, where it marked the last day of indulgence before the fasting season of Lent. French settlers brought the custom to Louisiana in the 18th century, and over time, it blossomed into a unique, vibrant celebration of culture, creativity, and of course, food.
Mardi Gras is a joyous expression of community and revelry. The name "Fat Tuesday" refers to the practice of using indulgent foods like butter, eggs, and sugar before the Lenten season of restraint begins. It’s no surprise that food plays such an integral part in the festivities, with local specialties taking center stage.
We turned to southern cooking authority Southern Living Magazine for recipes to celebrate Mardi Gras (if you're not on Bourbon Street). Here are just a few. If they make your mouth water, be sure to click the link for many more!
Food and Festivities:
Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
The culinary delights of Mardi Gras offer a feast for the senses, with rich, hearty dishes dominating the scene. One of the most iconic foods associated with Mardi Gras is the King Cake. This colorful, circular cake is decorated with purple, green, and gold sugars, symbolizing justice, faith, and power. Hidden inside is a tiny plastic baby, and the person who finds it is expected to host next year’s party or provide the next cake.
Photo: Dotdash Meredith
Another beloved dish is gumbo, a rich, flavorful stew made with a variety of meats or seafood, often served with rice. Jambalaya, a spiced rice dish with a combination of meats like chicken, sausage, and shrimp, is another staple. These dishes reflect the blending of French, African, and Spanish culinary traditions that make New Orleans cuisine so distinctive.
Legendary NOLA chef Leah Chase is famous for her distinctive version: Gumbo Z'Herbes.
Her pot is loaded with greens and she says: "You will acquire a new friend for every kind of green in the pot—and we hope one of them is rich!"
Photo: Robbie Caponetto
Fried foods are also a significant part of the Mardi Gras tradition. Beignets, French-style doughnuts dusted with powdered sugar, are a sweet treat often enjoyed during Mardi Gras. The crunch of the beignet perfectly complements the warmth and cheer of the festival.
Photo: Micah A. Leal
The Spirit of Mardi Gras:
Mardi Gras is a time for people to come together, share food, and celebrate before the reflective period of Lent. The history, food, and festivities of this day remind us to savor life and its pleasures, whether through food, family, or festivities. Mardi Gras, rich in tradition, continues to be a living, breathing celebration of culture and flavor.
