New Orleans is a city known for its vibrant culture, lively music scene, and of course, its delicious food. And if there’s one iconic dish that you simply cannot miss when visiting the Big Easy, it’s the eating beignets. These deep-fried pastries covered in powdered sugar are a staple of New Orleans cuisine and have been delighting locals and tourists alike for generations. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the history of eating beignets, where to find the best ones in New Orleans, and why they are an absolute must-try when visiting this incredible city. So grab a cup of coffee, get ready to indulge your sweet tooth, and let’s explore the world of New Orleans’ must-eating beignets!
Everyone told us that we had to go to Cafe Du Monde for beignets. My first thought was, wait a minute, we have these in Canada – they’re called fry bread or funnel cakes or elephant ears…. Either way, they’re deep fried dough covered in icing sugar so naturally, I was intrigued.
Eating Beignets
Mike and I hit up the cafe our first day in NOLA and again once we met up with my brother, Steven and his girlfriend, Brittany. Lunch day 1 and lunch day 2 (I love traveling). I was told it was a bit touristy, but sooo worth it. Even in the chilly weather it was plum full, but the crowds moved quickly and we dived into these beauties right away.
Delicious, warm, sugary goodness.
And because it was chilly and we were looking for an “excuse” to get out of the cold, we hit up Cafe Beignet for comparison sake.
Equally doughy, equally sugary, equally delicious. Can you really screw up deep fried dough covered in sugar? The answer is no. No, you cannot.
Eating Beignets are a must-try treat when visiting New Orleans. These delicious deep-fried pastries, covered in powdered sugar, are a true culinary delight. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee for breakfast or as a sweet afternoon snack, beignets are sure to satisfy your cravings. So, the next time you find yourself in New Orleans, make sure to indulge in this local delicacy. And if you’ve already had the pleasure of trying beignets, let us know in the comments about your favorite place to enjoy them!
Frequently Asked Questions
How did beignets get their name?
The word “beignet,” which is taken from French and literally means “bump,” refers to the way the dough puffs up when it is fried in hot oil. A puffed fritter created from frying pâte à choux, a hot water pastry made from flour, butter, and eggs, is what the term “beignet” most frequently refers to in modern France.
What do beignets taste like?
Beignets are a delicious treat that originated in New Orleans, Louisiana. They are deep-fried doughnuts that are light and fluffy on the inside with a crispy exterior. The dough is typically flavored with vanilla and sometimes has a hint of nutmeg. Beignets are generously dusted with powdered sugar, giving them a sweet and slightly messy coating. When you take a bite, you’ll experience a warm, pillowy texture and a subtly sweet flavor that is incredibly satisfying. They are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. If you haven’t tried beignets yet, I highly recommend indulging in this delightful treat!
Why are beignets popular?
It’s said that beignets first appeared in France, where they were called “fritters.” They were first introduced to New Orleans by French immigrants in the 18th century, and ever since then, they have been a mainstay of the local cuisine. Beignets are one of the city’s most recognizable meals today, loved by both residents and tourists.