If you are not from Louisiana, there is a good chance you’ve confused the terms “Cajun” and “Creole” more than once. Don’t worry, you are not the only one with that problem. It’s an easy thing to mix up! In reality, Creole and Cajun are two different cultures that originated about 70 miles apart from each other. There are even more differences between the two styles of Louisiana cuisine, and you can find out more below.

Cajun Cuisine and Acadian Influence

More than just crawfish, Cajun food is distinct. The Acadians are a group of people that originated in France and settled in the Acadia region of Canada. When the British acquired Acadia in the early 1700s, the residents had nowhere to go and choose to flee to Louisiana. They settled in different parts of the state and ultimately influenced the cuisine. This is where some common Cajun foods come into existence, at the crossroads of France and the Southern United States.

How did they influence the food, you ask? Well, the Acadians were very resourceful and used all parts of a slaughtered animal. This is a common practice — even today — and has lead to such things as boudin and andouille, two types of common Cajun dishes. Cajuns are also responsible for the famous pastime of crawfish boils. Nothing beats a weekend crawfish boil in the South!

Creole Cuisine and Blended Flavors

The Creole people were born to Louisiana settlers of French and Spanish colonial descent. Considered “city food,” creole food is influenced by slaves who cooked elaborate meals that took time and lots of spices. Because they had easy access to exotic spices, their recipes had dozens of ingredients, something you likely won’t find in a Cajun kitchen. Creole food is influenced by foods from places like African countries, the Americas, the Caribbean islands, Germany, Portugal, and Spain, among others.

A common rule of thumb is that Creole cuisine contains tomatoes and most Cajun foods will not. Cajun food is also considered “country food” while Creole is considered “city food.”

Kemah Boardwalk Restaurants

The Kemah boardwalk is a great place to get your fill of crawfish and other spicy Cajun and Creole foods. Whether it’s a seafood gumbo or a crawfish etouffee, Kemah boardwalk restaurants offer a wide variety of Creole and Cajun foods. Find your new favorite dish at a local seafood restaurant in this hub of delicious cuisine.