From rich, comforting gumbo to generations-old family recipes, Louisiana is a destination where food is so much more than what’s on the plate.
We caught up with husband-and-wife duo Sam and Cody Carroll, better known as the Cajun Aces, to discover what makes Louisiana’s food culture so special. After bringing a taste of the American South to the Sydney Good Food & Wine Show with their classic chicken and sausage gumbo, the pair shared their favourite food traditions, must-visit destinations, and why there’s nothing quite like a homemade gumbo.
For Australians who may not know much about Louisiana, how would you describe the state’s food culture?
Sam: Louisiana is unlike anywhere else in America. Our food is shaped by Cajun, Creole, French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences, and those traditions have blended together over centuries to create something completely unique.
Cody: Food really is at the centre of everything we do. It’s how we celebrate, how we gather, and how we connect with each other. If you really want to understand Louisiana, you have to experience the food.
You travelled all the way from Louisiana to share gumbo with Australia. Why is this dish so special to you?
Sam: Gumbo is Louisiana in a bowl. Every family has their own version, every region puts its own spin on it, and every recipe tells a story. It’s one of those dishes that brings people together. Growing up, gumbo was always at family gatherings, holidays, and community events.
Cody: It’s a dish that reflects so much of Louisiana’s history too. You can see the different cultural influences that have shaped our state all coming together in one recipe. That’s what makes it so special.
New Orleans might be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of Louisiana, but where else should food lovers explore?
Cody: New Orleans is incredible, but there’s so much more to discover. We always encourage friends visiting to spend time in Lafayette and throughout Acadiana. That’s where you’ll find the heart of Cajun Country and some of the most authentic food experiences in the state.
Sam: Baton Rouge has an amazing food scene too, and the communities along the bayous and Gulf Coast are incredible if you love seafood. One of the best things about travelling through Louisiana is that every region has its own traditions and signature dishes.
What’s your number one piece of advice for someone planning their first trip to Louisiana?
Cody: Come hungry.
Sam: Definitely come hungry! But also, don’t be afraid to wander. Explore beyond the major attractions, talk to locals, and try dishes you’ve never heard of before. Some of the best meals you’ll have won’t necessarily be in the places you expect.
What’s something that often surprises visitors about Louisiana’s food culture?
Sam: I think people are often surprised by just how much food is woven into everyday life in Louisiana. Food is really at the centre of how we connect with each other. It’s not just about restaurants; it’s also the festivals, music events, celebrations, neighbourhood cookouts, and family gatherings.
Cody: And they’re usually surprised by the diversity of it, too. Every region has its own specialities and stories, so there’s always something new to discover. That’s what makes Louisiana such a great experience for food lovers.
What makes dining in Louisiana unlike anywhere else?
Cody: There’s a real sense of culture around it. You might be listening to live music while you’re eating, or stumble across a festival dedicated to a local dish. People genuinely enjoy sharing those experiences with visitors. I think that’s what I love most.
Sam: That’s what stands out for me too. Everything is connected, but in a way I haven’t experienced outside Louisiana. I’ve travelled a lot, but there’s a spirit around Louisiana’s food culture that’s difficult to describe until you’ve experienced it for yourself. Even people who don’t consider themselves foodies get caught up in the energy.
Finally, what did you hope visitors would take away from your Cooking School masterclass at the Good Food & Wine Show?
Cody: We were excited to share one of our favourite dishes and show people that gumbo is something they can easily make at home.
Sam: We also wanted to share the culture behind it. Gumbo isn’t just a recipe; it’s part of Louisiana’s story. I grew up in Gonzales, between Baton Rouge and New Orleans in South Louisiana, and I remember waking up on weekend mornings to the distinct smell of roux being prepared in the kitchen for gumbo. There truly is no better smell. If people left feeling inspired to cook, eat, and maybe even plan a trip to Louisiana, we’d be happy.
From the comforting flavours of homemade gumbo to the vibrant traditions that bring communities together, Louisiana is a destination where every dish has a story to tell. It was a pleasure welcoming Sam and Cody to the Sydney Good Food & Wine Show, where they shared their passion for Cajun cuisine and gave visitors a delicious taste of Louisiana’s incredible food culture.
Feeling inspired to explore more? Discover the flavours, experiences, and destinations that make Louisiana so special by following Explore Louisiana on Instagram. Who knows, your next foodie adventure might just take you to the American South!