Chicago Mom's: Mardi Gras & Lent

This is my favorite time of year. Yes, I am no fan of the cold weather that we have here in Chicago, but my youngest was born in February. February is a short month and is right before Spring. February is Black History Month. February is MARDI GRAS!

I love Mardi Gras for so many reasons. My maternal grandmother was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. She was a Creole. So many times I am asked ‘WHAT ARE YOU?’ so, if you know anything about Creoles, that is what I am.

There is an entire lifestyle based around the aquatic influence in Louisiana. Most of the food prepared has shrimp or crawfish or crab. Oysters are a huge hit in Louisiana. They fry them, sauté them, grill them, or put them in drinks! Living in Chicago used to be very tough on Creoles because most of the ingredients we use in cooking were simply unavailable. Sadly Hurricane Katrina misplaced thousands and many of us migrated back up here to Chicago, like our ancestors before them. Many have still not returned to the ravaged areas they fled in Louisiana. So, it seems, retailers have shown mercy and are now stocking the things that we love.

One such store is Meijer. Meijer’s has prices to love, and seafood items to enjoy! With Mardi Gras and Lent approaching, having Matlaw’s, the #1 creator of the Seafood appetizer is super nice. On sale February 22-March 4 ( from $2.99 to $4.99 ) you can eat Matlaw’s New England Stuffed Clams and Stuffed Scallops. Just heat and serve.

My preference was the scallops which were of a nice size, big portion, and very well seasoned.

Get on down to your local Meijer. They are throughout Chicago-land. Click here for a store locator!