The Column of Life

Maque Choux with Fried Green Tomatoes Donald Link Real Cajun (Clarkson Potter, 2009) Great vegetarian recipe continuing in preparation for this evening's repast Maque Choux 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 small onion, minced 1 poblano chile, seeded and minced 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon paprika 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped 4 bay leaves 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves 1 1/2 cups water Kernels from 6 ears of corn (3-4 cups) 7 basil leaves, torn Fried Green Tomatoes 1 or 2 hard green tomatoes Salt and pepper 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup buttermilk 2 cups bread crumbs Vegetable oil, for frying Method: To make maque choux , melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. When the butter begins to sizzle, add the onion, poblano, jalapeno, salt, pepper, and paprika. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring, until the vegetables are softened. Add the tomatoes, garlic, bay leaves, t...