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Justin Wilson, the beloved Cajun chef and humorist, left a lasting legacy through his series of cookbooks that celebrated the flavors and culture of Louisiana.
Each of these Justin Wilson cookbooks reflects his passion for Cajun cuisine, storytelling prowess, and infectious humor, making them cherished resources for both seasoned cooks and newcomers alike.
1. Homegrown Louisiana Cookin’
Justin Wilson’s “Homegrown Louisiana Cookin'” is a delightful invitation to experience the rich culinary tapestry of Louisiana. Published in 1990, this cookbook by Justin Wilson and Jeannine Meeds Wilson complements Wilson’s PBS television series by offering over 300 traditional recipes.
From zesty gumbos and savory seafood dishes to comforting desserts like pralines, each recipe reflects the warmth of Louisiana’s hospitality.
Wilson’s charismatic style shines through as he shares not just recipes, but also techniques and stories that capture the essence of Southern cooking. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef, Wilson’s cookbook promises a taste of Louisiana’s vibrant food culture.
- Publisher : John Wiley & Sons Inc; Fifth or Later Edition (June 28, 1990)
- Hardcover : 288 pages
- Dimensions : 7.75 x 1 x 9.75 inches
2. Gourmet and Gourmand Cookbook
Justin Wilson’s “The Justin Wilson Gourmet and Gourmand Cookbook,” published in 1984, brings the flavors and humor of Louisiana to kitchens nationwide.
As an extension of his PBS show, the cookbook offers a plethora of recipes, from Cajunized Mexican Corn Bread to Alligator Sauce Piquant. Wilson’s charismatic presence is captured in fifty color photographs, showcasing his culinary skills and lively personality.
Special chapters on techniques like cooking in a bag and using a water-smoker cooker ensure success in recreating Cajun and Creole dishes. This cookbook promises to awaken taste buds with its diverse range of appetizers, salads, breads, gumbos, casseroles, and more.
- Publisher : Pelican Publishing (July 30, 1984)
- Hardcover : 128 pages
- Dimensions : 8 x 10 inches
3. Justin Wilson Looking Back
“Justin Wilson Looking Back: A Cajun Cookbook,” published in 1997, serves as a retrospective of Wilson’s culinary journey and Cajun cuisine evolution.
Featuring favorite recipes from his earlier works, Wilson adds modern updates alongside Cajun history and his trademark humor. The cookbook offers a glimpse into Wilson’s personal cooking style developed over three decades, enriched with anecdotes and vibrant photographs.
It’s a nostalgic celebration of Louisiana’s flavors and Wilson’s legacy as a culinary pioneer and humorist. “Justin Wilson Looking Back” promises both a culinary adventure and a delightful journey through Cajun culture.
- Publisher : Pelican Publishing (September 30, 1997)
- Hardcover : 256 pages
- Dimensions : 7.5 x 1 x 10.5 inches
4. The Justin Wilson: Cookin’ Cajun
The Justin Wilson #2 Cookbook: Cookin’ Cajun is a vibrant collection of authentic Cajun recipes, infused with the charm and humor of Justin Wilson.
Building on his successful first cookbook, this volume offers a variety of zesty dishes, including Wild Ducks and Turnips, Cajunized Oriental Pork Chops, Stuffed Cucumbers, and Leftover Spaghetti Casserole.
It also features a unique “Cooking in a Bag” section, revealing Wilson’s secrets for quicker, more tender meats. This cookbook, inspired by Wilson’s TV show, is a treasure trove for anyone interested in Cajun cuisine.
- Publisher : Pelican; First Edition (July 5, 2000)
- Plastic Comb : 112 pages
- Dimensions : 7.25 x 0.5 x 9.25 inches
5. Justin Wilson’s Easy Cookin’
Justin Wilson’s Easy Cookin’: 150 Rib-Tickling Recipes for Good Eating offers over 165 simple, flavorful recipes embodying Louisiana’s laid-back cooking style.
Emphasizing easy preparation, Wilson’s collection includes diverse dishes like Crawfish Mashed Potato Casserole, Turtle Stew, and Peanut Butter-Blueberry Cobbler.
Perfect for gatherings, recipes yield 8-20 servings, ensuring enough for friends and neighbors. Wilson also shares outdoor cooking techniques, using a Cajun smoker and microwave.
With hearty soups, stews, and balanced desserts, this cookbook blends Cajun wit with practical, delicious meals for easy, enjoyable dining with family and friends.
- Publisher : Pelican Publishing (January 21, 2010)
- Hardcover : 224 pages
- Dimensions : 8.07 x 0.82 x 9.66 inches
6. The Justin Wilson Cookbook
The Justin Wilson Cookbook, published on November 2017, is a delightful collection of Cajun recipes infused with Justin Wilson’s signature humor.
This paperback offers a range of dishes, from the perfect roux to Eggplant Appetizer a la Justin, ensuring that both novice and experienced cooks can enjoy authentic Cajun cuisine.
Wilson’s engaging style and practical instructions make it easy to recreate these flavorful recipes at home, providing a taste of Louisiana’s rich culinary tradition while adding a touch of fun to your kitchen adventures.
- Publisher : Pelican; Reprint edition (November 2, 2017)
- Paperback : 96 pages
- Dimensions : 6.9 x 0.3 x 8.8 inches
7. Outdoor Cooking with Inside Help
Justin Wilson’s Outdoor Cooking with Inside Help, published on September 30, 1986, showcases a collection of enticing recipes from everyone’s favorite Cajun chef.
Many recipes featured have been demonstrated on Justin’s popular PBS show, bringing his unique charm and culinary expertise to life.
The hardcover includes photographs that illustrate the dishes in various stages of preparation, making it easier for home cooks to follow along.
This book combines Wilson’s outdoor cooking techniques with practical indoor methods, offering a comprehensive guide to creating delicious Cajun meals with ease.
- Publisher : Pelican Publishing; New edition (September 30, 1986)
- Hardcover : 160 pages
- Dimensions : 8.5 x 0.75 x 10.25 inches
8. The Justin Wilson Cook Book
The Justin Wilson Cook Book, first published on January 31, 1975, is a unique blend of Cajun recipes and humor that embodies Wilson’s legacy as a beloved ambassador of Cajun culture.
Originally a safety engineer, Wilson’s use of Cajun humor transformed his presentations and eventually led him to share Cajun cuisine with the world.
This plastic comb-bound cookbook includes a range of authentic recipes such as Red Bean Soup, French Fried Shrimp, Okra Gumbo, Venison Roast, and Dirty Rice.
Wilson’s storytelling charm and practical cooking tips ensure that each dish not only satisfies but also leaves a lasting impression on anyone’s culinary experience.
- Publisher : Pelican Publishing (January 31, 1975)
- Plastic Comb : 96 pages
- Dimensions : 7.5 x 0.5 x 9.25 inches
Justin Wilson’s top eight cookbooks stand as culinary guides and cultural treasures, preserving Cajun traditions and Wilson’s unique charm.
Through these volumes, he continues to captivate cooks with his hearty recipes and infectious humor, ensuring that his legacy as a master of Cajun cuisine endures for generations to come.
