Spice Up Spring
It's Mardi Gras Every Day with Timoti's Cajun Blackening Blend
Celebrate Mardi Gras every day with a delicious Cajun Blackening Seasoning that is as versatile as it is tasty. Whether you want to use it to create a legit cajun shrimp dish or add it to your popcorn, Timoti’s blend is tried and tested by our amazing customers throughout out Northeast Florida locations, and has been given two thumbs up. Inspired by the streets of the southern cities, today we explore the roots of Mardi Gras and how you can make any meal a party.
The History of Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras holds its roots in a tradition that dates back thousands of years. Originally rising from pagan celebrations of spring and fertility, religious leaders in Rome began incorporating popular traditions into the Christianity. The debauchery of this now famous celebration became a prelude to Lent, the 40 days of fasting and penance between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday.
The Meaning of “Mardi Gras”
In French, Mardi is the word for Tuesday, and gras meaning “fat.” Many celebrations are held in France, the day before Ash Wednesday, in which many people consider this the last day to eat fatty foods before Lent. This came to be known as Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday.”
Traditionally, different types of fasting occur during the time of Lent, therefore in the days leading beforehand, many people enjoy eating the fatty foods in their house before switching to fish and other foods that follow their fasting diet.
The First Mardi Gras
French explores Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville and Sieur de Bienville landed in what is now New Orleans, Louisiana and hosted a small celebration on March 3, 1699. It wasn’t until 1827, however, that students in New Orleans donned costumes and began dancing through the streets, following traditions they experienced in Paris. In 1837, the first recorded Mardi Gras took place, and now has become the largest event of the year in New Orleans, and is celebrated throughout the southeast.
Did You Know? 3 Fun Facts About Mardi Gras:
Louisiana is the only state in which Mardi Gras is a legal holiday.
The first North American Mardi Gras was celebrated in Alabama—not Louisiana.
It is illegal to wear masks in New Orleans except on Mardi Gras.
Ready to Experience the Taste of Mardi Gras?
Enjoy Timoti’s very own special blend of seasonings ready to go on your favorite seafood, chicken or even snacks like popcorn or cajun seasoned fries. (Read more great recipe ideas here!)