Louisiana cookbooks are a sure thing

• By ERIN O. HERNANDEZ
• Special to The Advocate
• Published: May 2, 2009

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There’s no denying that one of the best things about this state is the food. So, perhaps sharing some of this area’s tried-and-true recipes with a loved one this Mother’s Day, Father’s Day or graduation day might be the perfect gift.

Of course, famous chefs Emeril Lagasse and Paul Prudhomme have produced their share of great cookbooks. Here are, however, a few other surefire Louisiana hits:

“Taste & See, Food for the Body and Soul”

This cookbook, written by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, features recipes from local cooks and a special section with recipes from Chef John Folse. It begins each chapter with short stories about St. Vincent de Paul’s special works programs. Proceeds from the sale of “Taste & See” are used to provide services — food, clothing, shelter and healthcare — for the disadvantaged and homeless in the Baton Rouge community.

Cost:  $21.95

Where to purchase: Call (225) 383-7837 Ext. 0 or visit one of the St. Vincent de Paul thrift stores. Visit http://www.svdpbr.com.

“Butterflies for Life”

This cookbook is produced by The Pink Team of Assumption, which benefits St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. It has more than recipes – it has a lot of heart. What began as a bike-a-thon team of 12 in the small village of Paincourtville is now more than 100 members strong. The cookbook has earned well over $100,000 for the cause. It recently received a great rating from The Advocate’s food section.

Cost: $22.95

Where to purchase: Visit http://www.butterfliesforlife.org or write to Butterflies for Life, The Pink Team of Assumption, P.O. Drawer D, Paincourtville, LA 70391.

“River Road Recipes”

This old standby was originally created by the Junior League of Baton Rouge in 1959. More than 1.9 million books are in print, making it the all-time, No. 1 best-selling community cookbook series in the nation, the Junior League says. Several of the books are in circulation, including the latest, “River Road Recipes IV, Warm Welcomes,” which was a finalist in the USA Book News Best Books 2005’s cookbook category.

Cost: up to $30