Today I sit and write this between the two weekends of New Orleans’ Jazz and Heritage Festival.

Some go for the big name rock acts – like last year – a record was set because of those who came to see Elton John. Some – like me – go and mostly hang out in the Jazz Tent all weekend. If you’re a jazz fan you can’t beat this. I’ve seen some of the biggest names in jazz in this fairly intimate setting.

I’ve heard some say they go just for the food. The entry fee is a little steep for that, IMO, but there is a vast array of food vendors selling all sorts of tasty treats. Last year, I sampled the Crawfish Enchiladas (a new favorite which I’ll have to try my hand at one of these days) – twice in one weekend. Yes, they were that good. And in previous years I’ve checked out the plate with Catfish Meuniere, Eggplant and Crabmeat Dressing and a Crab Cake several times. Many people say their favorite dish is the Crawfish Monica (a recipe their creators guard very closely), a creamy pasta and crawfish dish that made its name at Jazz Fest, and has become iconic in New Orleans. It’s a little on the mundane side to me (apologies to all of you fans out there), so I’ve created my own similar dish with the addition of shiitake mushrooms and a touch of tomato paste.

While you’re cooking, please enjoy the video clip below of  a bit of Dianne Reeves, one of my very all-time favorite singers (who, btw, I’ve seen a few times at Jazz Fest) offer her rendition of Bob Marley’s I Don’t Want to Wait in Vain. She’s accompanied by Christian McBride’s Jazz Orchestra. It was Mr. McBride’s set,  and he had a number of special friends, besides Ms. Reeves, drop in to perform with him.

Crawfish Enchiladas

Crawfish Enchiladas

Crawfish Monica

[amd-yrecipe-recipe:5]

Yield:2-3 servings