Classic Louisiana Maque Choux Recipe

Ingredients

4 large ears fresh corn, husks and silk removed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 large green bell pepper, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 large tomato, chopped
1 jalapeño pepper, seeds and ribs removed, minced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream

Steps and instructions

Cut the kernels off the corn cobs and set aside. Then scrape the cobs with the back of a knife to extract the milky liquid and set it aside separately.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent, about 10 minutes.
Add the corn kernels, tomato, jalapeño, garlic, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for another 10 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream and the milky liquid from the corn cobs. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 more minutes, until the mixture thickens.
Adjust the seasoning if necessary, then remove the skillet from the heat. Let the maque choux rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tools for making

Cutting Board - A sturdy surface for cutting the corn kernels and other vegetables.
Knife - Used for cutting the corn kernels off the cobs and chopping the onion, bell pepper, celery, tomato, jalapeño, and garlic.
Skillet - A large skillet or frying pan is needed for cooking the maque choux.
Spatula - A utensil for stirring and flipping the ingredients in the skillet.
Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure the salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
Measuring Cup - Needed to measure the heavy cream.

Recipe variations

Add cooked and diced bacon or smoked sausage for a flavorful meaty variation.
Include other vegetables such as diced carrots, zucchini, or okra for added texture and flavor.
Add a splash of hot sauce or cajun seasoning for some extra heat.
Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or green onions on top for a burst of freshness.
Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative to make it dairy-free.
For a gluten-free version, ensure all ingredients, including seasonings and any added meats, are gluten-free and use a gluten-free thickening agent like cornstarch instead of flour.
Experiment with different types of peppers like poblano or serrano for a unique twist.
Add cooked shrimp or crawfish tails to make it a seafood maque choux.
Serve the maque choux over rice or with crusty bread to make it a heartier meal.

Recipe overview

Ready to embark on a culinary journey to Louisiana? Get your taste buds ready for Maque Choux, a traditional southern Louisiana dish that bursts with flavors. Made from fresh corn, bell peppers, onion, and a dash of cream, this recipe is both colorful and delicious. This dish provides a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and sweet, while the cream adds a touch of richness that elevates the entire dish. With just a couple of steps, you'll find this recipe incredibly easy to whip up, making it the perfect addition to your weekday menu or a special Cajun-themed dinner party. Enjoy the process, the cooking will be as enjoyable as tasting the final product. Happy cooking!

Common questions

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn? Yes, you can use frozen corn as a substitute for fresh corn in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw the frozen corn before using it.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian? To make this recipe vegetarian, you can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream or milk alternative, such as coconut cream or almond milk.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply refrigerate it in an airtight container and reheat it gently on the stovetop when ready to serve.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish? Certainly! You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as diced carrots, zucchini, or green beans. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is maque choux spicy? The level of spiciness in maque choux can vary depending on the jalapeño pepper used. If you prefer a milder version, you can omit or reduce the amount of jalapeño pepper in the recipe.

Serving dishes and utensils

Skillet - A large skillet is essential for cooking the maque choux.
Knife - A sharp knife is needed to cut the corn kernels off the cobs and to scrape the milky liquid from the cobs.
Cutting board - A sturdy cutting board provides a stable surface for cutting the vegetables and corn.
Spatula - A spatula or a wooden spoon is useful for stirring and scraping the ingredients while cooking.
Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are needed to accurately measure the salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
Ladle - A ladle can be used to serve the maque choux into individual bowls or plates.
Bowls or plates - Bowls or plates are necessary for serving the finished maque choux.

Origin stories

Maque Choux, a classic dish of southern Louisiana, is thought to have originated from the intermingling of French and Native American cultures in this region. The name itself is a mix of French and Native American words, and the dish embodies the fusion of these two culinary traditions. While the French contributed techniques like the holy trinity of onion, bell pepper, and celery, it was the Native Americans who introduced corn to the cuisine. Over time, Maque Choux evolved into a colorful medley of corn, peppers, and tomatoes, simmered until they meld into a rich, creamy dish. A touch of spice gives it a kick, reflecting the lively spirit of Louisiana.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.