In this Thanksgiving special from November 16, 1989, Chef John Folse cooks a traditional Cajun and Creole Thanksgiving dinner with a Roast Suckling Pig, or Cochon de Lait, Pecan Rice Dressing, and Candied Yams. His father, Roy Folse, also prepares a Cochon de Lait in a traditional clay oven and Leah Chase of Dooky Chase’s Restaurant in New Orleans makes Stuffed Mirlitons.
Chef John Folse cooks a Cajun seafood gumbo, a Creole seafood etouffeé and butter beans with Andouille sausage. He also prepares shrimp remoulade with guest Leah Chase of Dooky Chase’s Restaurant in New Orleans.
Chef John Folse cooks Shrimp and Three Lettuce Soup, Jumbo Shrimp Viala, and Shrimp Stuffed Summer Squash. He also prepares Barbequed Shrimp with guest Loulan Pitre, a retired shrimper from Cut Off, Louisiana.
Chef John Folse cooks Garlic Roasted Chicken, Dirty Rice and Chicken Mamou with Crab Meat Stuffing. He also makes Fried Chicken Salad with guest Ron Zappe, the owner of Zapp’s Potato Chips in Gramercy, Louisiana.
John cooks Baked Mallards Cabanocy; Leg of Rabbit Bayou Lafourche; Pecan Rice; Okra Stuffed Tomatoes. John and Herman Perrodin (Didee's Restaurant in Baton Rouge, Louisian) make French Settlement Peach Pie.
Chef John Folse cooks Potato Stew with Shrimp and Andouille, Maque Choux Corn, and Smothered Cabbage. He also prepares Marinated Tomatoes and Bermuda Onion Salad with guest Dewey Balfa, a renowned Cajun fiddler.
Chef John Folse cooks Crawfish Creole, Boiled Crawfish, and Crawfish Salad. He also prepares Fried Softshell Crawfish with guest Paul Davidson of Red Claw Aquaculture in Baton Rouge.
Chef John Folse cooks Crabmeat Au Gratin and Stuffed Crab. He also prepares Marinated Crab Claws with guest Curtis Joubert, the mayor of Eunice, Louisiana.
Chef John Folse cooks Pork Medallions with Fig Glaze, Mardi Gras Pasta, and Cajun Candied Yams. He also prepares Fig and Pecan Pie with guest Ron Abidin of “Dah Big Cheese” Cheesecake Company.
Chef John Folse cooks Oyster and Artichoke Soup and Oyster Rockefeller. He also shucks oysters and prepares Oyster Po-boys with guest Gus Piazza, the proprietor of Phil’s Oyster Bar in Baton Rouge.
Chef John Folse cooks Turtle Sauce Piquante, Creole Bouillabaisse, and Squash Pecan Sauteé. He also prepares Bread Pudding with guest Frank Davis, cookbook author and host of a weekly cooking segment on WWL-TV in New Orleans.
Chef John Folse cooks Red Beans and Rice, Oven Barbecued Chicken, and Louisiana String Beans. He also prepares Crackling Cornbread with guest Bill Day, the Cultural Director of the Tunica-Biloxi Indians of Louisiana.
Chef John Folse cooks Georgian Chicken Stir-Fry and Seafood Paella. He also prepares Japanese Sautéed Bananas with guest Alec Gifford of WDSU-TV in New Orleans.
Chef John Folse cooks Chicken and Andouille Jambalaya, Pan-Sautéed Catfish with Shrimp and Chive Cream Sauce, and Pork Tenderloin Grillades and Grits. He also prepares Strawberries Ponchatoula with guest Leo Honeycutt of WBRZ-TV in Baton Rouge.
In this episode of “A Taste of Louisiana” from December 6, 1990, Chef John Folse cooks Cajun Glazed Ham, Christmas Roast Goose with Pecan Rice Dressing, Oyster Stew in Patty Shells, Cajun Sweet Potatoes and Poached Pears. He also reminiscences about Bayou Christmases of the past and prepares a dessert of Floating Islands with his father, Roy Folse. This episode also includes footage of the Christmas Eve Bonfires on the Levee in St. James Parish. Host: John Folse
Chef John Folse cooks Baked Striped Bass in a Provencal Sauce and Natchitoches Meat Pies. He also prepares Spiced Ruston Peaches with guest Joe Sampite, the mayor of Natchitoches, Louisiana.
Chef John Folse cooks River Road Crab Stew and Baked Pumpkin. He also prepares a Sweet Potato Pecan Pie with guest Valerian Smith, a musician and composer from Baton Rouge.
Chef John Folse cooks Pork Roast and Mustard Greens with Ham Hocks. He also prepares Fig Cornbread Muffins with guest Austin Leslie, the chef at Chez Helene in New Orleans.
Chef John Folse cooks Chicken and Dumplings. He also prepares Black-eyed Pea Salad with guest Martha White, a culinary historian and docent at Magnolia Mound Plantation in Baton Rouge.
Chef John Folse cooks Sherried Quail and Shrimp Bacchus. He also prepares a Muffuletta with guest Joe Cahn, a New Orleans chef and Headmaster of the New Orleans School of Cooking.
Chef John Folse cooks Brown Oyster Stew and Stuffed Flounder. He also prepares Seafood Slaw with guest Gabriel Chengery, the Captain of the Delta Queen.
Chef John Folse cooks Broccoli and Crab Cream Soup and Shrimp Creole Lite. He also discusses making healthy food choices with guest Barbara Dixon, a nutritionist.
Chef John Folse cooks Smothered Pork Chops and a Crawfish Omelet. He also shares coffee and mimosas and prepares Sautéed Yams with guest Brooks Read, an author and storyteller.
Chef John Folse cooks Eggs Dominique Youx and Fillet of Trout St. Charles. He also prepares Café Brûlot with guest Isaac Greggs, the band director at Southern University.
Chef John Folse cooks Creole Red Jambalaya and Chicken and Andouille Gumbo. He also prepares Cajun Potato Salad with guest Amanda LaFleur, a French teacher.
Chef John Folse cooks Hulhponi, a Choctaw dish, and Fish Boulettes. He also discusses art and Choctaw creation stories with guest Gary White Deer, a Choctaw artist.
Chef John Folse cooks Stuffed Pork Loin and Fabre Sandwiches, a traditional meat dressing sandwich. He also discusses Cajun weddings and prepares Pim Pom Punch with guest Barry Ancelet, a Cajun folklorist and French professor at the University of Southwestern Louisiana in Lafayette.
Chef John Folse cooks Turtle Soup and Venison Sausage. He also prepares Frog Legs Demi Bordelaise with guest Annie Miller, a swamp tour guide.
Chef John Folse cooks foods from Sabine Parish, including Spanish-style Baked Largemouth Bass and Lumberjack Stew. He also prepares Mustard-Fried White Crappie with Barney Miller, a historian from Toledo Bend.
Chef John Folse cooks Southern Fried Chicken and Pan-Sautéed Pork Chops Smothered with Peaches. He also prepares Hot Water Bread with artist Sarah Albritton from Sarah’s Kitchen in Ruston.
Chef John Folse cooks Venison and Squash Casserole and Pot-Roasted Squab with Kumquats and Plum Wine. He also prepares a Roasted Vegetable Casserole with Dennis Labat, a park ranger and the manager of the Poverty Point State Historic Site.
Chef John Folse cooks Roasted Mallard, Pan-Fried Striped Bass with Roasted Garlic Bordelaise Sauce, and Buttered Apples. He also prepares Pecan Spinach Rice with Emily Bruno, the owner of Grandmother Restaurant in St. Joseph.
Chef John Folse cooks Squash and Tasso Stuffed Rock Cornish Game Hen with a Mandarin and Muscadine Cane Syrup Glaze. He also prepares Biscuits with Cane Syrup Blueberry Cream with Madeline Turner, a cook from Grant.
Chef John Folse cooks Tunica Stuffed Peppers and Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato Sandwich Soup. He also prepares Mason-Dixon Pecan Pie with Ann Johnson, the manager of Lea’s Restaurant in Lecompte.
Chef John Folse cooks Redfish Courtbouillion and Deep Fried Hard Shell Crab. He also prepares Holly Beach Dump Cake with Captain Sammie Faulk, a Louisiana hunting and fishing guide.
Chef John Folse cooks Garfish Boulette Stew and Coushatta Roasted Leg of Venison. He also prepares Coushatta Sweet Potato Crunch with Bertney Langley, a member of the Coushatta Indian Tribe.
Chef John Folse cooks Prairie Crawfish Stew and Sausage Crawfish Rice. He also prepares Praline Fudge with Carol Ann Andrepont, the director of the Historic Commission in Opelousas.
Chef John Folse cooks Lac des Allemands Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce and Baked Garlic Crabs. He also prepares Old Maid’s Potato Salad with Mama Dusenberry, the owner of La Trouvaille Restaurant in Chauvin.
Chef John Folse cooks Chicken and Okra Stew and Drunken Shrimp. He also prepares a Pecan Praline Sauce with chef and author Marcelle Bienvenu.
Chef John Folse cooks Veal Shank and Audubon Spinach Madeline. He also prepares Sassafras Tea with author and historian Anne Butler, an expert on John James Audubon.
Chef John Folse cooks Strawberry Glazed Pork Loin and Coq au Vin with Strawberry Wine. He also prepares Strawberry 7-Up Pie with Dr. Charles Gideon, the former mayor of Ponchatoula and the founder of the Strawberry Festival.
Chef John Folse focuses on German cooking and prepares Sauerbraten and Sauerkraut. He also makes German Beer with Richard Carey, a home brewer.
Chef John Folse cooks Barbeque Short Ribs, Corn and Ham Pudding, and Sweet and Sour Coleslaw. He also prepares Plum Pie with Eddie Robinson, the football coach at Grambling State University.
There are no vampires in sight, just a lot of great food when Chef Folse visits Transylvania. Historian Betty Sullivan helps prepare Chef Folse's seven-bean and sausage soup, baked chicken and oyster casserole, and sweet potato and pumpkin bread.
Chef John Folse cooks Pecan Crusted Chicken Breast with a Pecan Praline Sauce and Twice-Baked Potatoes. He also prepares Ostrich Stir Fry with Penny Greggs, an ostrich farmer from Ferriday.
Chef John Folse cooks Shrimp and Broccoli Lasagna and Fried String Bean Bundles. He also prepares Crabmeat Stuffed Artichoke Bottoms with John Winn, a historian from Merryville.
Chef John Folse focuses on herbs and cooks Osso Buco Braised in Tomato & Fine Herbs and Shrimp Sautéed in Rosemary, Garlic and Olive Oil. He also prepares Garlic and Chive Spread and Orange and Mint Spread with Jean Owens, an herb farmer from Fishville.
Viewers get acquainted with a Louisiana staple: "boudin" (pronounced boo' dan). This indigenous sausage adds flavor to dishes such as boudin stuffed chicken, Cajun ratatouille and deep fried boudin balls. Joining Chef Folse is Ellis Cormier, the "Boudin King."
Chef John Folse cooks Boulettes in a Mushroom Sauce and Deep-Fried Frog Legs. He also prepares Cocktail and Tarter Sauces with Dave Petitjean, a Cajun humorist.
Chef John Folse cooks Cornbread and Shrimp Stuffed Pork Chops and Crawfish Pie. He also prepares Sad Cake with Hadley Castille, a Cajun fiddler.
Chef John Folse focuses on Italian cooking and prepares Bracioline and Oregano Chicken with Italian Sausage. He also cooks Pesto Pizza with Butch Ruggiero, a restaurateur.
Chef John Folse cooks Cane Syrup Glazed Crown Roast of Pork and Cajun Baked Beans. He also prepares Cane Syrup Vinaigrette with Charley Steen, the owner of Steen’s Syrup.
Chef John Folse cooks Scaloppini of Alligator and Seafood Quiche Parlange. He also prepares Hush Puppies and discusses the Portrait of Madame X by John Singer Sargent with Lucy Parlange, the owner of Parlange Plantation in New Roads.
Chef John Folse cooks Sweet Potato & Spinach Soup and Sautéed Liver & Onions. He also prepares Fig & Pecan Cake and discusses the history of the Washington Parish Free Fair with Bob Lamb, a resident of Washington Parish.
Chef John visits Oak Alley Plantation in Vacherie. In the kitchen, he cooks Skillet Fried Chicken and Carrot Salad Bon Sejourn. He also prepares Orange Flavored Iced Tea and discusses the history of Oak Alley with Sandra Schexnayder, the plantation director.
Chef John Folse visits Chretien Point Plantation in St. Landry Parish, where he talks to plantation guide Shirley Frey. In the kitchen, he cooks Daube Glace and Strawberry Muffins. He also prepares Planter’s Punch and discusses the history of Chretien Point with Jeanne Cornay.
Chef John Folse visits Magnolia Plantation in Natchitoches Parish. In the kitchen, he cooks Rolled Meat Loaf and Tomato Basil Seafood Pie. He also prepares Crawfish Cucumber Dip and discusses the impact of slavery with Dr. Huel Perkins, a history professor at LSU and Southern University.
Chef John Folse visits Madewood Plantation in Napoleonville, where he talks about the history of the plantation with its current owner, Mrs. Naomi Marshall. In the kitchen, he cooks Shrimp Etouffee Pie and Pumpkin LaFourche. He also prepares Millie’s Famous Salad Dressing with Thelma Parker.
Chef John Folse visits Boscobel Cottage in Bosco. In the kitchen, he cooks Turnip, Potato & Andouille Soup, Sweet Potato Pecan Balls, and Shoepeg Corn Salad. He also prepares Peach Soup with Kay LaFrance, the owner of Boscobel Cottage.
Chef John Folse visits Loyd Hall Plantation in Cheneyville. In the kitchen, he cooks Sweet Corn & Shrimp Soup, Breakfast Egg & Sausage Soufflé, and Plantation Candy. He also prepares No-Bake Praline Cheesecake and discusses the history of the plantation with its owner, Ann Fitzgerald.
Chef John Folse visits Blythewood Plantation in Amite. In the kitchen, he cooks Rosemary Stuffed Pork Roast and Okra & Black-eyed Pea Casserole. He also prepares Strawberry Shortcake and discusses the history of Blythewood Plantation with Allie Hyde, a long-time neighbor of the property.
Chef John Folse visits San Francisco Plantation in Garyville, where he meets with tour guide Patsy Torres. In the kitchen, he cooks Poached Seafood in Tomato Essence and Fried Quail on Toast. He also prepares Carrot Spice Cake and discusses the history of the plantation.
Chef John Folse visits Caspiana Plantation in Shreveport. In the kitchen, he cooks Vegetable Chili and Caspiana Fried Catfish. He also prepares Oven Fried Squash and discusses plantation textile production with Katherin Aulds, a docent with Caspiana Plantation.
Chef John Folse visits the Rene Beauregard House in Chalmette. In the kitchen, he cooks Poor Man’s Stew and Shrimp & Catfish Fricassee. He also discusses the Battle of New Orleans from the War of 1812 with Gary Hume, the director of Jean Lafitte Park.
Chef John Folse visits the Myrtles Plantation in St. Francisville, where he talks with the owner, Teeta Moss. In the kitchen, he cooks Oven Roasted Guinea Hen and Dirty Rice. He also prepares Sweet Potato Pie and discusses the sweet potato business and the ghost stories.
Chef John Folse visits Poplar Grove Plantation in Port Allen, where he talks with the owner, Ann Wilkinson. In the kitchen, he cooks Chicken & Oyster Fricassee and Italian Stuffed Artichokes. He also prepares Fig Ice Cream and discusses the history of Poplar Grove Plantation with Anne Timmons.
Chef John Folse visits Shadows-on-the-Teche Plantation in New Iberia. In the kitchen, he cooks Chicken, Crab & Artichoke Casserole and Orange Cane Syrup Pecan Pie. He also prepares Tomato & White Bean Salad and discusses traditional medicine with Rebecca Henry, an expert on folk medicine.
Chef John Folse visits Melrose Plantation in Natchitoches Parish. In the kitchen, he cooks Ratatouille Stuffed Chicken and Creole Tomato Soup with Shrimp. He also prepares Chicken Liver Pate and discusses Louisiana food traditions with Chef Leah Chase, the owner of Dooky Chase's Restaurant.
Chef John Folse visits Ardoyne Plantation in Terrebonne Parish. In the kitchen, he cooks Virginia Ham and Whipped Potatoes. He also prepares Blackberry Wine and discusses the African American influence on American music with Alvin Batiste, a jazz musician.
Chef John Folse visits Longue Vue House & Gardens in New Orleans. In the kitchen, he cooks Corned Beef & Cabbage and Shrimp, Crab & Okra Gumbo. He also discusses the variations of Louisiana cuisine and its influences with Chef Paul Prudhomme.
Chef John Folse visits Nottoway Plantation in White Castle, where he talks to Faye Russell, the marketing director for the plantation. In the kitchen, he cooks Venison Medallions with Blueberries and Pot Roasted Leg of Rabbit. He also prepares a Quail Egg Caviar appetizer.
Chef John Folse visits Catalpa Plantation in St. Francisville. In the kitchen, he cooks Creamy Potato, Green Onion & Sausage Soup and Corned Beef Hash. He also prepares Buttermilk Pie with Mamie Thompson, the owner of Catalpa, as they discuss her childhood at the plantation.
Chef John Folse visits Houmas House in Ascension Parish, where he talks with Gaynell Moore about its history. In the kitchen, he cooks Sautéed Breast of Duck in a Peach Brandy Sauce and Green Peas with Andouille Sausage. He also prepares Mint Juleps with Captain Joy Manthey.
Chef John Folse visits Magnolia Ridge Plantation in the town of Washington. In the kitchen, he cooks Chicken & Sausage Gumbo and Potato & Bacon Beignets. He also prepares Layered Fruit & Shrimp Salad with Ann Golias, the owner of Magnolia Ridge, as they discuss her purchase of the plantation.
Chef John Folse visits Kent House Plantation in Alexandria. During his visit, he talks to Robert “Bobby” DeBlieux, an authority on Creole culture, Creole plantations and Creole bereavement traditions. In the kitchen, he cooks Smothered Pork Sausage with Honeyed Apples and Creamed Radishes.
Chef John Folse visits Magnolia Mound Plantation in Baton Rouge, where he discusses early plantation life with Gwen Edwards, the plantation director. In the kitchen, he cooks Cedar-Planked Snapper and Beet Marmalade. He also prepares Louisiana Pumpkin Bread and discusses pottery with Kent Follet.
Chef John Folse visits Layton Castle in Monroe. In the kitchen, he cooks Tomato Braised Pork Cutlets and Brie Cheese, Crab & Bermuda Onion Soup. He also prepares Pecan Ambrosia with former Governor John McKeithen as they discuss his political career.
Chef John Folse visits Viala Plantation, also known as Lafitte’s Landing Restaurant, in Donaldsonville and talks about the famed pirate Jean Lafitte. In the kitchen, he cooks Crawfish Cream Velouté and Pepper-Seared Lamb Chops. He also prepares White and Red Bean Salad & discusses Cajun cooking.
Chef John Folse visits Rosedown Plantation in St. Francisville, where he talks about the history of the plantation’s furniture with Ann Hodge. In the kitchen, he cooks Leg of Spring Lamb and Spinach & Andouille Soufflé. He also discusses edible flowers and the gardens at Rosedown with Cordell Veal, the gardener and director of horticulture at the plantation.
Chef John Folse visits Ashland-Belle Helene Plantation in Geismar. In the kitchen, he cooks Braised Skirt Steak and Crab & Rice Casserole. He also prepares Wilted Spinach Salad and discusses the reasons for restoring plantations with Dr. Eugene Cizek, a restoration expert.
Chef John Folse visits the French Market Creole Tomato Festival in New Orleans. In the kitchen, he cooks Creole Tomato Bisque and Creole Marinara Sauce with Crawfish. He also prepares Panzanella and discusses the history of the French Market and its Italian influences with Sam Banandi.
It's a peach lovers delight as Chef Folse heads to Ruston, La. for the annual Peach Festival. He also steps into the kitchen to prepare Roasted Loin Chops in Peach/Persimmon Glaze, French Vanilla Peach Pie and Peach Trifle. Peach Farmer Joe Mitcham of Mitcham Farms in Ruston is today's guest.
Twin Crabmeat Etouffee and Crab Fingers Rockefeller are two of the mouthwatering dishes on the menu when Chef Folse travels to Bayou Lacombe for the Crab Festival. Softshell Crab specialist Cultus Pearson is John's guest.
Chef John Folse visits the Blueberry Festival in Mansfield. In the kitchen, he cooks Blueberry & Cornbread Stuffed Cornish Game Hen and Zucchini Blueberry Bread. He also prepares Blueberry Sauce and discusses the blueberry business with Tom Avant, a blueberry farmer.
Planet Hollywood Executive Chef Beany MacGregor steps into the kitchen with Chef Folse to prepare Country Catfish and Corn Chowder and a Spanish Town Catfish Omelet. Chef Folse also visits the Catfish Festival in Des Allemands, LA.
Louisiana is loaded with great wild game cooks and many of them are in action when Chef Folse visits the Duck Festival in Gueydan, La. John prepares Pot Roasted Mallards; Smoked Duck, Andouille and Oyster Gumbo; and Creole Dirty Rice. He also visits with Cajun photographer and naturalist Greg Guirard.
You will learn some great new ways to prepare shrimp when Chef Folse visits the Shrimp & Petroleum Festival in Morgan City, La. On the menu is Barbecued Shrimp, Cajun Shrimp Ratatouille, and Shrimp and Penne Pasta. John's guest is Chef Mark De Felice of Pascal's Manale Restaurant in New Orleans.
Everyone's favorite hopping amphibians become delicious entrees when Chef Folse travels to the Frog Festival in Rayne, La. He prepares Osso Bucco of Frog Legs, Crabmeat Stuffed Frog Legs and Cracklin' Biscuits and visits with Martha Royer, a tour guide and the owner of the Maison Daboval Bed & Breakfast in Rayne.
Get ready for some great wild game recipes when Chef Folse visits the Sunshine Festival in Donaldsonville, La. John heads to the kitchen to make Pot Roasted Teal Hopping John, Speckled Belly Mandarin Goose and Garlic Mashed Potatoes. He also visits with Rosemary Sims Birnbaum.
Cajun fiddler extraordinaire Michael Doucet of BeauSoleil is the guest as Chef Folse visits the Festivals Acadiens in Lafayette, La. Today's menu includes Allen Ellender's Spicy Oyster Jambalaya, Speckled Trout Cypremort, and Hot Crawfish Salad.
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth as Chef Folse heads to New Iberia, LA for the Sugar Cane Festival. The delicious and sugary menu features Barbecued Spareribs, Smothered Chicken Brulot and Pralines. John's guest is P. Buckley Kessler, a sugar cane plantation owner and the operator of the Cora Texas Sugar Mill.
The scenic Tchefuncte River is today's destination as Chef Folse visits the Wooden Boat Festival in Madisonville, LA. Today's unusual menu includes Lump Crabmeat Cheesecake, Pickled Quail Eggs and Pickled Vegetables, and "Blew Max" Punch, which is named after the boat of today's guest, artist Don Scafidi.
One of the staples of Cajun and Creole cooking is rice and there is plenty of it on the menu during this visit to the Rice Festival in Crowley, La. Chef Folse cooks Risotto; Red Beans, Rice and Sausage Gumbo; and Seafood Jambalaya Rice Salad. Rice farmer Wayne Garber discusses the aromatic rices now available from Louisiana rice producers such as his Creole Rose label.
In this special Christmas episode of “A Taste of Louisiana” from December 5, 1995, Chef John Folse cooks and shares Christmas memories with four special guests. He prepares: Crawfish Corn Pudding with Lieutenant Governor Melinda Schwegmann; Yam and Praline Pie with jazz clarinetist Pete Fountain; a Cajun Goose with Barbeque Sauce with Beany MacGregor, the executive chef at Planet Hollywood; and Sherry Quail with actress and singer Kathryn Crosby, the widow of Bing Crosby. During the show, Fountain also performs his favorite Christmas song, “Jingle Bells” and Folse and Crosby talk about the popularity of Bing Crosby’s song, “White Christmas.”
Chef Folse visits the Black Heritage Festival in Lake Charles and prepares smothered seven steaks and black eyed pea congre. Kathe Hambrick, the curator of the African-American History Museum at Tezcuco Plantation in Ascension Parish, is John's studio guest.
Chef Folse visits the Gumbo Festival in Bridge City and prepares chicken and andouille gumbo; shrimp, crab and okra gumbo; and potato salad and jalapeno corn bread. John's guest is the Reverend Monsignor J. Anthony Luminais, pastor of the Holy Guardian Angels Catholic Church, who helps the chef demonstrate the secret to preparing perfect rice.
Chef Folse travels to the Yambilee Festival in Opelousas and prepares Bayou Teche pork and yam sausage patties, and super moist and yummy yam cake. Cajun humorist Murray Conque joins to prepare a candied yam flan.
Chef Folse visits the Celtic Nations Heritage Festival. The menu includes baked corned beef, baked salmon with chive potato sauce and an Irish apple cake. The chef is immortalized in song when Celtic folkorist and musician Kaetiedawne Littlejohn plays "The John Folse Song."
Everything is hot and spicy when Chef Folse visits the Pepper Festival in St. Martinville. He prepares roasted red pepper and crab soup, and pepper-laced pork roast. Pepper grower, "Red" Ortego helps John prepare bacon/pepper finger sandwiches and they sample "armadillo eggs" -- stuffed jalapeno peppers.
Chef Folse visits the Los Isleños Festival in St. Bernard Parish, where he cooks caldo, a traditional soup, and Isleños paella. Isleños are the people who migrated from the Canary Islands. Isleño Deborah Carballo joins in the kitchen to prepare a mirliton pie and sample boiled pudding with creme Anglaise.
Chef Folse journeys to the Pecan Festival in Colfax and prepares trout Frangelico, meatloaf with pecan stuffing and fried chicken salad. His guest Patricia McDonald from Aunt Sally's Praline Company, helps John prepare carrot cake with a praline garnish.
Louisiana is one of the nation's largest producers of strawberries and loads of the luscious red fruit are consumed every year at the Strawberry Festival in Ponchatoula. Today's menu includes pepper-seared lamb chops with strawberries. Nature photographer Julia Sims joins John to taste biscuits with strawberry butter and whip up some strawberry daiquiris.
Miss USA 1996, Ali Landry of Breaux Bridge, is Chef Folse's special guest as he takes a trip to the Crawfish Festival in her hometown. Ali helps John boil crawfish. The chef prepares crawfish etouffee and fried softshell crawfish.
Chef Folse takes a trip to the Poke Salot Festival in Oak Grove. Forager and wild plant expert Jane Dunn helps Folse prepare a poke salad dip to eat with vegetables and breadsticks, and they sample a lazy day cobbler. John also cooks lasagna and cornbread.
The music and the food are both hot as Chef Folse visits the Festival International de Louisiane in Lafayette, a major showcase for international music acts. New Orleans singer Charmaine Neville helps John prepare stuffed hardshell crab. The menu includes smothered chicken in maque choux corn, and rabbit and oyster mushroom sauce piquante.
Chef Folse travels to Franklinton for the Washington Parish Free Fair. Cabbage patch soup and Mile Branch onion shortcake are the featured dishes. Judy Jenson, a volunteer at the Mile Branch Settlement, helps John prepare a scripture cake with ingredients from the various books of the Bible.
Roasted pig is the featured delicacy when Chef Folse journeys to the Cochon de Lait in Mansura. John also cooks a white bean and tasso soup. Hearthmaster and food historian Paul Kiene joins him to prepare hog's head cheese without the head.
Chef Folse visits the historic Lanaux Mansion in New Orleans French Quarter and prepares riz au lait with owner Ruth Bodenheimer. The menu also includes bisque of spinach and crab, sweetbreads in lemon caper, fricassee of chicken and sausage, and grillades and gravy.
Chef John Folse visits the McKendrick-Breaux House in the Garden District of New Orleans, Louisiana. In the studio kitchen, he prepares Crabmeat and Shrimp Stuffed Mirliton and Oysters Dunbar.
Seafood and wild game are on the menu today as Chef Folse visits the Salmen-Fritchie House in Slidell. With owner Sharon Fritchie, he prepares prudent mallard omelette. Other dishes on the menu include pot-roasted wood duck in fresh fig glaze, pain perdu Count Pontchartrain, shrimp and redfish court bouillon, and oysters casserole Fritchie. He also interviews owner Homer Fritchie.
Pecan-pesto chicken and front porch carrot bisque highlight today's menu at the Elliot House in Amite. Chef Folse and owner Flora Landwehr cook granola. Folse returns to the studio to make creme caramel custard, and spinach and rice casserole.
Chef Folse travels to St. Francisville to visit the Butler-Greenwood Plantation, where he prepares sweet potato pie with owner Anne Butler. Other items on the menu are sweet farre dressing, Port Hudson's southern-fried chicken, whipped potato clouds and spicy fried chicken gravy. Folse also visits with furniture makers Wayne Zuccarello and Gordon Graham.
The Bois Des Chenes B & B in Lafayette, Louisiana is the site for today’s show. John visits with owner Coerte Voohries and cooks Oyster and Artichoke Patties with Marjorie Voorhies. Today’s spicy menu also includes Maja’s Redfish Sauce Piquant, Braised Dove Evangeline, Wild Blackberry Crepes and Naval Orange Crisp.
Stuffed Oreille De Cochon and Shrimp & Okra Gumbo Bayou Teche headline today’s mouthwatering menu at the Maison Des Amis in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana. Chef Folse prepares Turtle Cheesecake Des Amis with owner Cynthia Breaux and also whips up some White Chocolate Bread Pudding.
Visiting Alice Plantation in Jeanerette, Chef Folse cooks frog in the hole, eggplant casserole, shrimp and lump crabmeat quiche, and hearts of artichoke frittata, and prepares French Market pizza with plantation owner Rachel Rodgers. Accordionist Greg Mouton is the guest.
Chef Folse visits Ramsay-Curtis Mansion in Lake Charles, where he cooks Michigan Man apple pancakes with owner Judy Curtis. Folse also prepares spicy cornbread skillet cake, lumberman's meatloaf and gravy, and Moms holiday bread. Adley Cormier of the Louisiana Preservation Society is the guest.
At the Judge Porter House in Natchitoches, Chef Folse cooks cheese andolive roulades with owner Tod Working and returns to the studio to prepare Judge Porter's Cane River fish soup and breast of quail La Colombe. Antiques dealer Robbie Lucky is the guest.
Chef Folse travels to the Levy-East House in historic Natchitoches to prepare luscious lemon soup with owner Judy East. Creole mustard-glazed Cornish hens, hot and spicy black eyed peas, herb roasted potatoes, and almond cream pie are also on the menu.
Chef Folse visits Matt's Cabin in Alexandria and prepares lump crabmeat Inglewood, fried parmesan eggplant strips, Matt's charbroiled leg of lamb, and portabello pizzas. He also talks with owner Caroline Winter.
Down-home country cooking is featured as Chef Folse travels to Melody Meadows in Ruston. Owner Gina Clark helps him prepare Paw Paws shrimp dip, and Folse bakes Maw Maws banana pound cake. The entrees include Gina's crawfish bisque and grilled spiced double thick pork chops. Pottery maker Ken Folette is the guest.
At the New Orleans home of famed impressionist artist Edgar Degas, Chef Folse interviews Degas House owner Mike Roussel and prepares queen soup and fricassees of veal and ham.
A visit to the House on Bayou Road in New Orleans includes an interview with owner Cynthia Reeves, who helps Chef Folse prepare spinach and strawberry salad.
Strawberry pancake en surprise and Stuffed Quail Bottolf headline the menu during a visit to Bottolf's Manor in Hammond. Chef Folse also prepares garlic and herb-studded tenderloin, barbecue shrimp, and the best darn pecan pie.
The menu includes jumbo shrimp in Creole mustard cream, scallops of veal with tasso and wild mushroom essence, and double praline parfait when Chef Folse visits the Barrow House in St. Francisville. Owner Shirley Dittloff is the guest.
Creole country corn meal pecan waffles with cranberry syrup and Ms. Linda's breakfast cheer are just two of the delicious breakfast recipes on the menu when Chef Folse visits the Creole Country Bed and Breakfast in Lafayette. Folse also prepares pot-roasted goose False River and fiesta maque choux salad and visits with owner Linda Lawrence.
With a name like TFrere, this bed and breakfast can be located only in the Cajun country of Louisiana. Chef Folse travels to Lafayette to prepare crabmeat vermillion and interview TFrere owner Maugie Pastor. Today's menu also includes Bananas Foster, sweet and spicy chicken etouffee, T'Frere turtle soup, and eggs ` la creme.
Chef Folse travels to Carencro, where he visits La Maison de Champagne Bed and Breakfast. Recipes include upside-down orange biscuits, French-fried asparagus spears, and venison tenderloin Carencro.
Chef Folse travels to Darrow to visit Tezcuco Plantation. On the menu is Creole chicken and biscuits, Creole tomato and basil omelette, and Madame Tureaud crawfish and shrimp dip. He interviews Bill Bringier, and together they prepare Bringier's nine-bean soup.
Chef John Folse visits the Reid-Toerner Bed and Breakfast in Lake Charles, Louisiana. He visits with owner Toby Carnell as he cooks a Pheasant Gumbo. In the studio kitchen, Chef Folse prepares Smoked Wood Duck, Oyster, & Andouille Gumbo and Silver Queen Corn and Tarragon Eggrolls.
Chef John Folse visits the Fleur-de-Lis Bed and Breakfast in Natchitoches, Louisiana. In the studio kitchen, he prepares Seafood Pastalaya and a Spinach & Shrimp Mold. Back in Natchitoches, he visits with Chef Kent Gresham at his restaurant, The Landing.
Chef John Folse visits Ju Ju’s Bed and Breakfast on Toledo Bend Lake in Many, Louisiana. In the studio kitchen, he prepares a Cantino Toledo Omelet and a Roasted Pork Loin.
Chef John Folse visits Fairfield Place in Shreveport, Louisiana. In the studio kitchen, he prepares Corned Beef Brisket and Broccoli Salad with a Spicy Ginger Orange Dressing. Back at Fairfield Place, Chef Folse and owner Janie Linscomb make Poached Pears. Linscomb also discusses the gardens at Fairfield Place and the time commitment required to run a bed and breakfast.
Chef John Folse visits the Victoria Inn and Gardens in Lafitte, Louisiana. In the studio kitchen, he prepares Bisque of Three Shellfish with Shoepeg Corn and Black Eyed Pea Battered Shrimp. Back at Victoria Inn, Chef Folse makes a Hollandaise Sauce for the Eggs Victoria with owner Roy Ross.
Guest is Carol Leblanc, who brings her grandmother's recipe for Chicken & Sausage Gumbo. We also visit her home and see her collection of antique furniture. Musical guests are Anne Savoy and the Magnolia Sisters, including Christine Balfa. They play songs from their cd, "Evangeline Made", recently featured in the film, "The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood".
Chef John Folse visits Doug Guerin at his home in Morgan City, Louisiana. He shares his recipe for Seafood Stuffed Mirliton. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares a healthier version of the Seafood Stuffed Mirliton and Oyster Pies.
Guest Carol Benoit brings her mother's recipe for Shrimp Spaghetti. Unusual ingredient is pancake mix instead of flour for the roux. We also tour her home, where she shows Chef Folse her collection of coffee pots and cook books, numbering over four thousand! Chef John Folse prepares the recipe using fresh shrimp, fat free and low sodium ingredients.
Guest Marjorie Domangue brings a recipe for Vegetable Beef Soup, passed down from her family in Bayou Black, Louisiana. John makes the dish with fat free margarine, fresh vegetables and low-fat cuts of meat. Musical guest is Black Guidry, who sings his Cajun original tune, "Cajun man".
Guest Bobbie Lee Belanger, from Houma, Louisiana, with an old family recipe for Shrimp Sauce Cauliflower. She takes John on a tour of her home, showing family heirlooms such as her father's oyster shucking knife and photos from her family album dating back more than fifty years.
Guest is Diana Politz. We travel to Napoleonville to visit her home and prepare Stuffed Eggplant in Italian Gravy. She and John visit on the front lawn and discuss the many contributions of the Italian community to Louisiana culture. Her thick gravy simmers for thirteen hours before its finally ready to eat!
Guest is Cherie Zeringue, with a recipe for Oeufs Aux Lait (Egg Custard). John visits her home in Thibodaux, Louisiana, where they discuss this old family recipe. John prepares the dish with low-fat ingredients, without losing any of the flavor of the original. Chef Folse and Cherie discuss their common family heritage, growing up in South Louisiana.
Guest is Darlene Foret, who prepares a Sweet Potato Cake in her home in Raceland, Louisiana. John visits with her large, Cajun family and gets a tour of the farm, where Darlene's daughters show off their prize cattle and pigs. John makes the dish with low-fat sugar substitute ingredients and fresh sweet potatoes.
Chef John Folse visits the Academy of the Sacred Heart, an all-girls Catholic school in Grand Coteau, Louisiana, that dates back to 1821. He meets with Marie Orgeron, an alumna and the former development director, who shares a special school recipe for Pecan Pie.
Guest is Brenda Martin, who brings us an old recipe for Cous Cous, a kind of cereal pudding made from fried corn meal. We also tour her home in Lafayette, Louisiana, where a new development has created a close-knit community where you can walk to the corner market! Brenda also shows us her collection of antique flatware and porcelain Easter Eggs.
Chef John Folse stops in at Meche’s Meat Market in Opelousas. He then visits Don Duplechian at his home in Oberlin, Louisiana, where he shares his family recipe for Sauce Piquante Oberlin. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares a healthier version of the Sauce Piquante, as well.
Chef John Folse tours the Fresina Pasta Company in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with owners Phyllis Fresina and Buster Fresina. Phyllis also shares her family recipe for Lasagna. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares a healthier version of the Lasagna, as well as Eggplant Caponata.
Chef John Folse interviews Dr. Jacinda Bonvillain, a nutritionist at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, Louisiana. In his kitchen, he prepares Veal Osso Bucco and a Creole Tomato, Pork Chop & Rice Casserole.
Guest Melba Matherne brings a recipe for Sunday Morning Chicken Fricassee from her home in Houma, Louisiana. She and her sister prepare the dish at home for John, as we visit with her family. John makes the dish in the studio using heart-healthy ingredients. Melba and John swap stories about how the chickens got from the yard to the pot!
Chef John Folse visits Frank Russo at his home in Berwick, Louisiana. Frank shares a recipe created by his father-in-law, Luke Lupari’s Shrimp Salad. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares a healthier version of the Shrimp Salad, as well as Gumbo Z’Herbes.
Chef John Folse visits Dr. Craig Walker, a cardiologist, at his home in Houma, Louisiana. They prepare Chef Folse’s recipe for a Grilled Fish Salad Mold. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares a healthier version of the Grilled Fish Salad Mold, as well as Eggplant Beignets.
Chef John Folse visits Florence Gravois and Tony Gravois at their home in Vacherie, Louisiana. Florence shares her recipe for Petit Gateaux, or Christmas Tea Cookies. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares a healthier version of the Petit Gateaux, as well as Crab Meat Au Gratin.
Chef Folse goes duck hunting with Captain Sammie Faulk and visits Grosse Savanne Lodge in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Johnnie Faulk, Sammie’s father, shares his recipe for Baked Goose. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares a healthier version of the Baked Goose, as well as Fried Oyster Dressing. The Hackberry Ramblers, a well-known Cajun band, also performs in the kitchen.
Chef Folse visits Glenda Daigle at her home in Paincourtville, Louisiana. She shares her recipe for Roasted Duck. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares a healthier version of the Roasted Duck, as well as Tarte a la Bouille.
Chef John Folse visits June Breaux Greene at her home in Houma, Louisiana. She shares her grandmother’s recipe for Succotash Soup. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares a healthier version of the Succotash Soup, as well as Stuffed Flounder.
Chef John Folse visits Judy Guidry at her home in Houma, Louisiana. She shares her recipe for Broccoli Salad with a Dijon Vinaigrette. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares a healthier version of the Broccoli Salad with the Dijon Vinaigrette, as well as Redfish Courtbouillon.
Chef John Folse visits Martha Butler at her home in Houma, Louisiana. She shares her recipe for Chicken and Eggplant Casserole. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares a healthier version of the Chicken and Eggplant Casserole, as well as Spinach Marguerite, his light version of Spinach Madeline.
Chef John Folse visits Martha Longman on her brother’s shrimp boat in Dulac, Louisiana. She shares her mother-in-law’s recipe for Barbecued Shrimp Longman. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares a healthier version of the Barbecued Shrimp, as well as Beef Bourguignon.
Chef John Folse interviews Andrew Capone, who discusses the ongoing restoration efforts on the replica of Iberville’s sailing ship, Le Pelican, in Donaldsonville, Louisiana. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares healthier versions of Agnes Wyatt’s Potato & Ham Soup and Doc’s Primo Chili.
Chef John Folse and his friend Sharon Jesowshek visit Porche’s Sausage in French Settlement, Louisiana, where butcher Donald Porche shows them the proper way to butcher a pig. At Sharon’s home in French Settlement, she shares her recipe for Hog’s Head Cheese. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares a healthier version of the Hog’s Head Cheese, as well as a Bread Pudding Cake.
Chef John Folse visits Chef Nora Dejoie at her home in New Orleans. She shares her recipe for Vegetable Jambalaya. In his kitchen, Chef Folse prepares a healthier version of the Vegetable Jambalaya and Boiled Crawfish. Jazz singer Lillian Boutte also performs in the kitchen.
In this special Christmas episode from the “Louisiana Cooking with a Change of Heart” series of “A Taste of Louisiana” from December 14, 2002, Chef John Folse returns to his home parish of St. James, where he visits the St. James Catholic Church and the home of his sister, Ruth Folse Hirsh. He also reminisces about past Christmas celebrations with his father, Roy Folse. In the kitchen, Chef Folse prepares: a Game Pie with duck, rabbit, and venison; Chicken, Oyster, and Andouille Gumbo; Sweet Farre Dressing; and Greens. He also enjoys a performance of Christmas carols by the St. James Catholic Church Choir.
At the time Ramses II was ruling Egypt, Moses was leading the Israelites from bondage and the Phoenicians were trading along the Mediterranean, Native Americans were thriving at Poverty Point in northeastern Louisiana. Jon Gibson, an expert on the Poverty Point settlement, introduces us to this unique civilization. David Griffing of Poverty Point explains how these early Americans were ingenious in their "hot rock" cooking and demonstrates how to prepare steamed fish. Donna Pierite performs Native American songs during the show.
Before agriculture, hunting and fishing were the primary food sources for the Native American tribes of Louisiana. While they hunted deer, game birds and small animals, they also enjoyed a bountiful harvest of fish and shellfish. David Griffing, a Louisiana park ranger and Native American expert, gives us insight on our first Americans. Bertney Langley and his mother, Loris, of the Coushatta tribe, demonstrate how to make fry bread, a traditional Native American food. Hazel Dardar performs Native American songs during the show.
The Lower Mississippi Valley provided over 250 natural herbs for the Native Americans. Kim Hollier and Dr. Charles M. Allen of the Louisiana State Arboretum in Ville Platte give us a firsthand look at these wild edibles. Dr. Alma Blanchard, a "traiteur," explains the art of this alternative medicine practice and even treats Chef Folse for an old injury. Hazel Dardar performs Native American songs during the show.
The 17th century ushered in history's Era of Colonization. New places grew across the landscape: New Spain, New France, New England and New Scotland. But, exploration was tough business. Whoever controlled the new land also controlled the riches within it. Chef Folse introduces us to some of Louisiana's most famous, and infamous, pioneers. The boucherie, or hog killing, is one of the most celebrated events in Louisiana. Chef Folse visits with his brother Jerry, Buddy Bailey and Lucien "Troop" Perkins as they demonstrate how to make red boudin. Neil and Donna Wilkinson perform traditional music from the French colonial period.
Early settlers faced many hardships in taming Louisiana's wilderness. There were no formal communities or laws, food was scarce and there were very few women. Chef Folse visits with Rick Seale at Fort St. Jean Baptiste in Natchitoches about life on the Louisiana frontier. Then, Darren Vermillion demonstrates how to make corn and venison stew. Neil and Donna Wilkinson perform traditional music from the French colonial period.
Chef Folse explores the contributions of Louisiana's unlikely pioneers: the missionaries, priests and nuns. Sister Joan Marie Aycock introduces us to a bit of Louisiana's early "morality" and the contributions of the Ursuline nuns. Chef Folse visits with Tommy Adkins as he demonstrates French bread making on the Louisiana frontier. Celeste Veillon and musicians from the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra perform religious pieces appropriate to Louisiana's French colonial period.
Dr. Carl Brasseaux and Mary Anne Pecot de Boisblanc tell the tragic tale of Louisiana's Acadians or "Cajuns." Following intense hardship, expulsion from Nova Scotia, murder, and exploitation, the Acadians were welcomed to Louisiana's shores. Chef Folse joins Buddy Bailey and Lucien "Troop" Perkins at the annual Boucherie as they create andouille sausage, a Cajun delicacy. The Larry Miller band performs Cajun favorites.
Join Dr. Carl Brasseaux, Brenda Trahan and Jane Bulliard as they explore the arrival of the first Acadians on Louisiana soil. Cracklins, a common Cajun snack, are made by Prince Davis, who also introduces us to the "Cadillac of cracklins." Johnette Downing entertains with fun Cajun songs, especially for kids.
Spain was one of the first countries to explore the New World and was responsible for Louisiana's system of laws, the architecture of the "French" quarter and the food markets of New Orleans. Dr. Paul E. Hoffman introduces us to early Spanish Louisiana. Chef Folse along with Tee Wayne Abshire and Ricky Breaux demonstrate how to make jambalaya, one of Louisiana's most common dishes, which was inspired by Spanish paella. Neil and Donna Wilkinson perform traditional music from the Spanish colonial period.
In the 1700s, the Spanish border was just six miles from the French fort at Natchitoches. Fort Los Adaes became a Spanish stronghold, greatly influencing the culture and cuisine of northwest Louisiana. Ray Berthelot and Corneil Cox explore this intriguing Spanish story. Chef Folse visits Marie Roque, a Creole from Cane River, for a lesson in traditional meat pie making. Neil and Donna Wilkinson perform traditional music from the Spanish colonial period.
Hurricane Katrina focused attention on Louisiana's St. Bernard Parish, home of the resilient, proud and hopeful Islenos descendants. Dorothy Benge introduces us to these wonderful people and the unique heritage of these Canary Islanders. Chef Folse visits Rhonda Gautier in Natchitoches, La. as she prepares the tamale, a great food contribution of the Spanish. Neil and Donna Wilkinson perform traditional music from the Spanish colonial period.
While the Africans contributed to the agriculture of the state, they certainly left their mark on the cuisine of Louisiana as well. Dr. Gwendolyn Midlo Hall, an authority on the African-American experience, introduces us to these ingenious culinarians by tracing their heritage from Africa to the cane fields, cotton patches and kitchens of South Louisiana. Chef Folse joins Chef Don Mastroni and Pearlie Jefferson at the Old Coffee Pot in New Orleans to make rice, or "calla" cakes, a favorite snack of New Orleanians. Judy Whitney Davis performs fabulous "spirituals" or "corn ditties."
Foods such as yams, red beans, rice, melons, okra and eggplant are indigenous to West Africa, the ancestral homeland of most of Louisiana's African-Americans. Dr. Gwendolyn Midlo Hall and Professor Eileen Julian give audiences an insight on the roots of much of Louisiana's African-American cuisine. Chef Leah Chase gives Chef Folse a lesson on making Gumbo Des Herbes, a traditional Holy Thursday dish. Judy Whitney Davis entertains the audience with "songs from the big house and songs from the field."
Louisiana is home to many famous African-Americans. Tiwanna Simpson introduces us to "King" Oliver, Mahalia Jackson, Fats Domino and Louis Armstrong. In West Africa, chicken was a festive dish served to honored guests. Ann Green and Chef Folse make Guinea Hen Gumbo, a prized entree for the Sunday dinner table in Louisiana. Eric Baskin performs pieces immortalized by famous African-Americans.
John Law, a Scottish financier, lured Germans to Louisiana with a propaganda campaign entitled "The Magnificent Country of Louisiana." When the Germans finally arrived after suffering grueling circumstances, they became fabulous farmers and saved the city of New Orleans from famine... twice. Glenn Falgoust enlightens us with the story of Louisiana's German ancestors. Chef Folse visits Henryk Orlik, a German beer maker, at his Heiner Brau brewery in Covington, La. for a quick lesson in beer making. Julie Council and band members perform traditional German music.
The first Germans to arrive in Louisiana settled in the River Parishes on the outskirts of New Orleans. Glenn Falgoust shares the story of what has come to be known in Louisiana as the German Coast. Like many other cultures, the Germans celebrated the boucherie, or hog butchering. Chef Folse joins his brothers and a few good friends to celebrate this tradition. Bob Cheney, a one-man-show, plays traditional German songs on his accordion.
Germans immigrated to Louisiana in three waves, settling in various areas of the state. Frieda Arwe, Susie Lester and Josie Thevis guide us through their respective German communities in New Orleans, Minden and Robert's Cove. Sauerkraut making, shredding and salting cabbages in large barrels, was common among German Coast descendents. Chef Folse joins Frieda Arwe to make a batch of this traditional dish. Bob Cheney, a one-man-show, plays traditional German songs on his accordion.
Though France and Spain are known for their Louisiana colonization efforts, the English had a significant impact as well, especially in the Florida parishes. Libby Dart, a historian from St. Francisville, shares the story of Louisiana's English heritage. Jane Dunn, a forager, gives Chef Folse a lesson on wild edibles and cooks up a delicious omelet. Dudley Smith and Smithfield Fair perform delightful pieces representative of the British influence in Louisiana.
One of the most extravagant houses in the Old South was Rosedown Plantation in West Feliciana Parish. Mary Thompson, the great-, great-granddaughter of the builders of this home, gives us a glimpse of a lifestyle that is now "gone with the wind." The English are notorious for mixing their liquor with sweets. Anne Butler, a seventh generation owner of Butler-Greenwood Plantation, and her cousin Bob, indulge Chef Folse's taste buds with Whiskey Cake. Dudley Smith and Smithfield Fair perform delightful pieces representative of the British influence in Louisiana.
Although the American colonies declared themselves independent of Great Britain in 1776, true liberty was not achieved until 1783. But war raged again and Great Britain hoped to capture the mouth of the Mississippi River. Aly Baltrus visits with us about the Battle of New Orleans, and the victory that changed the course of American history. Chef Folse joins John Seago of Pontchartrain Vineyards in Covington, La. as they poach pears in his famous "Port of New Orleans." Rosemary John entertains with the bagpipe, an instrument played by the British during the Battle of New Orleans.
Oppression, religious freedom, heavy taxes and deplorable working conditions brought many immigrants to the New World. The Italians were no different. Disappointed and betrayed by their government, many Sicilians emigrated from the harbor of Palermo to the port of New Orleans. Joe Maselli enlightens audiences with the story of Louisiana's Italian immigrants and their culinary contributions. One of the great food contributions of the Italians was the muffaletto. Chef Folse visits with Norma Jean Webb, of Nor-Joe Import Co. in New Orleans, as they prepare this world-famous sandwich. Bobby Lonero and the New Orleans Express entertain the audience with traditional Italian favorites.
The Italians came to America with very few possessions, but it was not long before they were "making good" in Louisiana. Joe Maselli introduces us to these Italian truck farmers, citrus importers, grocers, restaurateurs and ultimately, entrepreneurs of Louisiana's food industry. Chef Folse joins Phyllis Fresina, of Fresina's Pasta Company, as she demonstrates how to make a simple, authentic Italian dish. Bobby Lonero and the New Orleans Express entertain the audience with traditional Italian favorites.
Not only did the Italians bring a tremendous work ethic to Louisiana, they came with a love of family and an incredible faith. The St. Joseph Day altars are a true testament to their strong beliefs. Margo Battaglia Clement and Margaret Teeter introduce audiences to this continuing Sicilian and South Louisiana tradition. Chef Folse visits with Sandra Scalise Juneau as she prepares a fresh batch of her fabulous cuccidatta, or fig-filled cookies. Bobby Lonero and the New Orleans Express entertain the audience with traditional Italian favorites.
"Creole" is a word in evolution. Chef Folse considers all of our native people Creole, a mixture of the fabulous cultures that make up the Bayou State. The New Orleans Creoles were the aristocracy, the society folks of the early city. Jan Bradford of the Hermann-Grima House introduces us to these fascinating people. Because Louisianians are known both for their love of food and love of drinking, it is fitting that Kerri McCaffety, author of The Obituary Cocktail, helps Chef Folse make a batch of ratifia. Members of the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra play pieces representing the Creole period of early Louisiana.
Once a forgotten people, the Creoles of Cane River have preserved their culture through faith, tradition and an incredible family unit. The family unit is as strong today as it was when their ancestors, Marie Therese Coincoin and Claude Thomas Metoyer, were alive. Terrell Delphin and his daughter Daphne enlighten us with the story of their unique heritage just outside of Natchitoches, La. Chef Folse joins Lillie Delphin as she prepares baked cushaw, a favorite Creole dish. Willis Prudhomme entertains the Creoles of Cane River with traditional Zydeco music.
In this special episode from the “Our Food Heritage” series of “A Taste of Louisiana” from December 10, 2006, Chef John Folse celebrates a traditional German Christmas. He visits with Frieda Arwe of the German-American Cultural Center in Gretna, Suzie Lester at the Germantown Colony Museum in Minden, and Josie Thevis of the German community of Robert’s Cove to learn about the German contributions to the cultural fabric of Louisiana. Arwe also teaches Chef Folse to make a traditional German drink, Gluehwein. In the kitchen, Chef Folse cooks Red Cabbage and German Roasted Goose and talks to Hope Hoffpauir of Robert’s Cove and Sevilla Finley of Gretna about the German Christmas traditions in their communities. To close the show, Julie Council and her band members perform traditional German Christmas music.
Chef Folse highlights Teal and Wood Duck, two of the most highly prized game ducks for cooking in Louisiana. He prepares a mouthwatering favorite, Smoked Teal and Andouille Gumbo, then travels to Grand View Lodge where he delights viewers with Creole-Braised Wood Duck.
Chef Folse entices viewers with a variety of tasty dishes made from the Alligator that includes a sizzling hot Alligator Sauce Piquante, and a platter of golden brown perfection, Cajun-Fried Alligator. The Alligator was close to extinction in 1967, but by 1987, conservation efforts had them thriving.
Chef Folse prepares a delectable Roasted Quail smothered in a succulent Fig & Garlic Sauce. He also prepares an appetizing Pan Fried Quail with a savory Cream Sauce, and Quail Stuffed with Oysters and Andouille. A visit to Covey Rise Hunting & Lodging enlightens viewers on how managed game preserves can benefit the birds, the hunters, and the table.
One of the most interesting techniques used by hunters in the pursuit of wild game is the art of calling. Chef Folse explores the history of bird calls as he prepares Duck & Turnip Stew - a rich dark roux base, chopped onions, garlic, and a generous amount of turnips, cooked down until tender and delicious. Then viewers are taken to Canard Sauvage Hunting Lodge.
Chef Folse creates delectably tender Sausage-stuffed Venison Hearts braised with garlic, onion, and celery. Then viewers are taken to Giles Island, a private reserve near Natchez, where Medallions of Venison is prepared in Kumquat Glaze - sautéed with shallots, herbs, a splash of red wine, and kumquat jam.
Chef Folse prepares Braised Duck in Thai Red Curry, then travels to Buckley’s Camp near White Castle to create a luscious stuffed teal simmered in red wine and duck stock. He concludes with a tasty camp stew of ducks cooked with canned soups and veggies found in any camp pantry.
Chef Folse explains the influence of hunting on the arts of the renaissance and baroque periods. The recipes include game not indigenous to Louisiana, but raised here domestically to provide a ready supply of these delicious birds. Chef Folse prepares a savory dish of Chucker, a small member of the Partridge family, simmered in red wine with rosemary, carrots, mushrooms, onions, and much more.
Chef Folse provides viewers with a look at the art of Falconry. This intriguing method of hunting small game is regulated by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, which provides licensing and permits for some 100 falconers in the state.
Chef Folse is cooking what he considers the most flavorful wild game available in LouisianaÂ…turkey. First prepared at the Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans, Chef Folse re-creates Turkey & Oyster Poulette. Peppers, onions, celery, and garlic are sautéed in butter, and then mushrooms, dried thyme and bay leaves are added.
From the ancient Aztecs to as far as Eastern Europe, frog legs have been eaten for centuries. Though no longer farmed for consumption, Rayne, Louisiana, the Frog Capital of the World, once supplied the tables of some of the finest restaurants in New York. Today's supply comes from the swamp where hunting is legal ten months of the year, and a regular fishing license is all that is required.
A gun dog is a hunter’s best friend. It is believed that tamed wolves were the first animals to aid man in the hunt, and the hunting dogs of today have been developed into a truly diverse group. The retriever (a type of gun dog) is especially conditioned for goose hunting and a welcomed companion and game fetcher.
This week Chef Folse prepares Snapping Turtle - a rare delicacy that boasts seven different flavors of meat. The first recipe, Turtle Sauce Patot (with potatoes) begins with a dark roux, and then the meat is added. Onions, celery, peppers, garlic and potatoes are incorporated along with turtle stock. Finally, fresh eggs are broken directly into the stew and served over French bread.
Chef Folse cooks some of the exotic game that Louis & Clark first encountered during their Corps of Discovery journey. He begins with a Black Bear Pot Roast topped with caramelized honey and wild blueberry sauce. The roast is first marinated for two days with garlic, carrots, celery, onions and lemon juice. Garlic, bay leaves, pepper corn, juniper berries, thyme and basil are also added.
Chef Folse prepares Dove. After rubbing salt and pepper into the dove breasts, they’re browned (for that caramelized flavor) in butter-flavored oil. They’re then placed in a crock pot with potatoes, carrots, onions, celery, garlic, game stock and canned cream of celery soup – and cooked for nine hours. It’s ladled over grits just before serving.
Chef Folse begins with spice-rubbed tenderloin of boar that’s basted with fresh peach BBQ sauce, then grilled to perfection. Next, he travels to White Oak Plantation for a demonstration of the "Cajun Microwave." The wooden box is heated with charcoal. Then the meat is injected and rubbed with spices, placed on a bed of root vegetables, and lowered into the box where it roasts.
Chef Folse prepares Speckled Belly Geese. The first recipe is Asian Barbecued Goose Kebabs - a tribute to the Asian culture in Louisiana. A combination of hoisin, plum and black bean sauces, minced garlic and ginger is painted on the kebabs with a brush made of lemon grass then grilled for 7-8 minutes.
This week’s episode begins with Raccoon Sauce Piquante. The meat is boiled until tender, deboned, then added to a rich dark roux filled with onions, celery, peppers and garlic. Beef stock is incorporated and the dish is simmered for 30 minutes. Chef Folse then travels to Wildwood Resort on Toledo Bend Lake to sample Fried Rattlesnake.
Goose is the main ingredient as Chef Folse prepares Baked Goose Holly Beach, Goose Jerky and Goose Bratwurst with Beer & Mustard. He also visits Keith Felder and Jules Lambert of Denham Springs, Louisiana who show how to build Cajun boats known as pirogues.
Chef Folse prepares squirrel Jambalaya and Goose Jerky and visits the Boat Museum in Lockport, Louisiana.
Chef Folse prepares Deer Bombs, Venison Rolled Roast and Venison Liver with Onions and visits with gun experts Richard Lipsey and Richard Waguespack.
Chef Folse visits hunting camps in Gueydan, Morgan City, White Castle and Creole, Louisiana. The menu includes Venison Wiener Schnitzel, Venison Sauce Piquante and Oven-barbecued Venison Ribs.
The duck decoy champions of the Brunet family are the special guests. Chef Folse also prepares Smoked Duck Ham and Old Woman Down the Bayou Poule Cassoulet.
Chef Folse travels to the Grand Slam Hunting Camp and visits with Perry Segura. .He prepares Fried Woodcock with Gravy. Woodcock & Snipe Pate and Uncle Paul’s Braised Woodcock.
Chef John Folse visits with antique knife collector Michael Worley and knife maker Nathan Logsdon, who discuss the history of knives. In the studio kitchen, he cooks Braised Venison Shank and talks to knife maker Michael Sanders. Next, Chef Folse visits Poverty Point State Park in West Carroll Parish, LA.
Chef John Folse visits Bowie Outfitters in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and meets with David Reynerson and Jim Brown, who discuss the history of hunting clothes and camouflage from the Middle Ages to the present day. In the studio kitchen, he prepares Pheasant & Wild Rice Soup and more.
Chef John Folse visits the Eunice Superette, a slaughterhouse and butcher shop in Eunice, Louisiana. He meets with Andy Thibodaux, a butcher, and Chris Hughes, the owner of Broken Arrow Ranch in Texas, who discuss the regulations concerning the sale of wild game.
John visits St. Mary’s Seafood & Marina. He makes Fried Soft-Shelled Crab Po Boys with Frank Randol of Lafayette, owner of Randol’s Restaurant. John and Chris Lusk, Executive Chef from Café Revolution in New Orleans, make Ultimate Crab Cakes and French Fried Frog Legs. Plus John mixes a drink called the Havana Cooler.
John Folse travels to Scott, in south central Louisiana, and learns about all natural aqua farming of Tilapia. Brian Gotreaux and his family raise tilapia without the aid of any chemicals which they say gives their product a fresh, natural taste. Utilizing the farm-raised tilapia, John cooks with BR Diocese Bishop Robert Muench.
John explains the different varieties of tasty gulf fish species we have off our coast. John introduces to local seafood experts from Tommy Vidrine, champion gulf fisherman, who specializes in catching Speckle Trout to Leah Chase, famous Creole Chef from New Orleans, who describes how Creoles used Red Snapper to adorn their holiday table.
John travels to Lake Des Allemand, east of New Orleans where we learn the methods of catching catfish from German descendants. John’s nephew Jay and his daughter Allie, teach John the hoop net method of catching fish and then have a good old fashion catfish fry. Back on the White Oaks Dock, John’s guest is Don Dubuc, famous local outdoorsman and host of a TV and radio show.
John takes to world famous Toledo Bend Reservoir to tangle with hard-fighting large mouth bass and the delicious white perch, locally called crappie. Local chef and restaurant owner, Randy Ziegler whips up a mouth-watering Herb-Baked Bass on the pier. John meets local bass legend Harold Allen who talks about his time as a fishing rodeo champion. John cooks Pancake Battered Bass.
John visits the famous Tony’s Seafood Market in Baton Rouge and learns the secrets behind their success. John picks up a beautiful Gaspergou and travels to New Orleans with his friend Leah Chase and creates a gorgeous Backed Gasperou like Leah’s mother used to make on special occasions. Then Leah teaches John how to make her famous Turtle Stew.
John encounters the endless varieties of fish offered up in the Gulf of Mexico… from fishing along the coast for speckled trout, mango and redfish to fishing the deep water for red snapper, amberjack and tuna… the Gulf of Mexico has it all. John hooks up with champion fisherman Tommy Vidrine for some expert advice.
John gets a first-hand look at the size and scope of Louisiana’s coastal erosion problem. Louisiana has 40% of our nation’s wetlands and each year experiences the loss of land equal to the size of Rhode Island. John celebrates the coastal bounty by making Sauteed Speckled Trout with a spicy Garlic & Orange Vinaigrette with saltwater fishing champion, Tommy Vidrine.
John joins the fun at the Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo. Saltwater fishing tournaments are a summer tradition, and the Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo is the oldest fishing championship in the country. John interviews Ricky Templet with the rodeo and then the pair prepare a Pan-roasted Grouper with Caribbean Sofrito. Afterwards, Captain Theo Bourgeois drops by to visit John.
John travel to south Louisiana and visits the Houma Native American Nation, and learns about the Houma’s fishing culture and techniques for making Alligator Gar Tasso. John is then joined by Rick Tramanto from Café Revolution and cooks Coushatta Garfish Stew. John Burke from Cajun Caviar tells John how caviar is farmed using local fish.
John travels to Lake Verret, LA to hunt for the feisty alligator snapping turtle. John joins two LA Dept. Of Wildlife and Fisheries biologists to trap and catalogue these protected treasures. Then Wildlife and Fisheries Secretary, Robert Barham and John cook a Turtle Sauce Picante. Later, the two state biologists Amity Bass and Kerry Landry cook with John and make a Turtle Stroganoff.
John travels the mouth of the Mississippi River and meets the Lepetich family. Mato Lepetich came to Louisiana in the early 20th century and started farming oysters, and his son Matt teaches John all about the oyster industry and how Czechoslovakians came to settle in Louisiana and dominated the industry. Matt then helps John make Oyster Rockefeller Soup. John then meets Curtis Hendon.
John meets Bobby Collins and learns how to dry shrimp. John remembers how dried shrimp was like candy when he was growing up. Later John makes a Shrimp File Gumbo with Native American Zoe Verret. Then James Carville drops by John’s deck and they make Mirliton and Shrimp Casserole to go along with everyone’s favorite Barbeque Shrimp.