Biography

Leigh Ann Chatagnier was born in Tennessee, but after marrying her Cajun-born husband, fell in love with the people and culture of Louisiana. She launched her lifestyle and food blog, My Diary of Us, in 2013 and hasn’t looked back. Cooking has always been a part of her life and has evolved throughout the years, and while she may only be Cajun by marriage, the food will forever be a part of her life, kitchen, and family.  Leigh Ann now resides in Houston, Texas, with her husband and baby boy.

Schedule

12:15 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Cooking Demonstration Tent
Demonstration
The Unexpected Cajun Kitchen

1:15 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Barnes & Noble Bookselling Tent
Book Signing

The Unexpected Cajun Kitchen: Classic Cuisine with a Twist of Farm-to-Table Freshness

Bring the Big Easy home with these seventy original recipes!

You don’t have to live in Cajun country to enjoy some of your favorite foods from Louisiana! The Unexpected Cajun Kitchen is a cookbook that draws inspiration from classic recipes down in the bayou and transforms them into modern-day dishes for all to enjoy. These recipes have a touch of nostalgia while using fresh, locally grown ingredients native to Louisiana—but can be found anywhere, if you know where to look. The dishes are interesting and easy enough for anyone to make at home. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen, or an old pro, you will love whipping up new takes on the Cajun tradition. Divided into fun, modern chapters such as Small Bites, Date Night, and Happy Hour, recipes include:

Cheddar scallion tasso biscuit sandwiches
Spiced pork burgers with remoulade mayonnaise
Muffuletta sliders
Pecan praline cinnamon rolls
Mango bourbon smash

A fusion of deconstructed Cajun delicacies and traditional flavors, The Unexpected Cajun Kitchen is a necessity for any season. Gather everyone around the table and celebrate food, life, and love with a fresh and unexpected home-cooked meal.