Edu-Cajun Series: Lesson 1

There’s no denying Louisianans have a way with words. Although we speak English, folks may have a hard time understanding the language that reflects our Cajun culture down here in the South. Our Edu-Cajun series will dive into some of the sayins’ one might hear when visiting Bayou Country.

LESSON 1:

Boudin (BOO-dan): Simply put, boudin is a traditional sausage of Cajun Country, made with pork and rice in a natural casing.
“When visiting Bayou Country, be sure to grab you some boudin from Bourgeois’ Meat Market.”

Boude (BOO-day): Not to be confused with boudin, a boude simply means to pout or be angry.
“Tommy’s momma told him to wipe that boude off his face.”

Roux (ROO): A classic Cajun concoction made by blending oil and flour and cooking them together. Commonly used as a base in gumbos, etouffees, stews and other Cajun dishes – also inspired the name of our e-newsletter!
“Don’t burn your roux trying to read our latest edition of The ROUX.”

Coullion (COO-yawh): Probably the most-used term in my household; a coullion best put means foolish or silly in a lighthearted fashion.
“You coullion! You’re supposed to take the baby out before you eat the King Cake!”

Envie (Ãn-vee): Some words just do not translate well and, to me, envie is one of those words. It’s defined as a longing or hunger to do or eat something. Other Southerners might use the word “hankering,” where a Cajun would use ‘envie.’
“That crawfish pasta was delicious, but now I have an envie for something sweet.”

Stay tuned for more lessons in our Edu-Cajun series!