Boudin, the traditional Cajun sausage made from pork and rice, is a delicious and unique food. It’s flavorful, easy to prepare, and a real crowd-pleaser!
If you’ve never heard of boudin before, it’s a type of sausage that is famous in Louisiana.
It has a unique flavor that can be enjoyed on its own, but why not take it up a notch and serve it alongside some delicious sides!
So, what to serve with boudin? Here are some great side dish ideas that will perfectly complement your boudin recipes.
Some of them are my personal favorite, and I am sure you will also enjoy these sides along with boudin.
What is boudin? What does boudin taste like?
Boudin is a type of sausage which is popular in Louisiana, especially among the Cajun population. It’s made with pork, rice and seasoning like onion, bell peppers and garlic.
The finished product has a soft texture due to the rice that’s used as a binder. Boudin is often served as an appetizer or entree but can also be enjoyed on its own.
Boudin has a slightly smoky flavor from the combination of pork and spices. It’s usually mild in terms of spiciness but can sometimes have notes of heat depending on how much cayenne pepper or other spices are used.
The texture is somewhere between firm and moist; it’s definitely not dry. The rice gives it a slightly sweet taste, while the pork gives it a savory flavor and a hint of smokiness.
Overall, boudin has an interesting mix of flavors that combine to make an enjoyable snack or meal. It can be enjoyed on its own or with side dishes like hot sauce or coleslaw.
You can also use boudin as an ingredient in other dishes, such as jambalaya or gumbo.
21 Best sides to serve with Boudin
1. Potato Salad
Potato salad is always a favorite side dish for any type of sausage. But when it comes to boudin, we recommend taking it one step further with this savory potato salad recipe.
To make this spud-tacular side dish, start by boiling the potatoes in salt water until they are tender but still firm.
Once they are cooled, cut them into cubes and combine them with diced bell peppers, celery, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper.
Finally, add mayonnaise and serve chilled or at room temperature.
2. Cheesy Baked Rice
A Cheesy baked rice recipe is an ideal complement to boudin dishes because it offers a creamy texture that pairs well with the spicy notes of the sausage.
Start by cooking long-grain white rice according to package instructions. Then mix in shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese until melted.
Spread this mixture into an oven-safe baking dish and top with more cheese before baking at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes or until golden brown on top. (Recipe)
3. Crispy Fried Okra
Fried okra is another classic pairing for boudin dishes that won’t disappoint! The trick here is to get the okra nice and crispy without burning it—but don’t worry; this recipe makes it easy!
Start by slicing fresh okra into 1/4-inch-thick slices before coating them in cornmeal mixed with salt and pepper (or whatever other seasonings you prefer).
Then fry them in hot oil until they are golden brown on both sides—about 3 minutes per side—and transfer them onto paper towels to drain off any excess oil before serving.
4. Vegetable Skewers
A medley of colorful vegetables is perfect for pairing with boudin. Roast some cherry tomatoes, yellow squash, zucchini, bell peppers and red onions on skewers to make a savory side dish that will bring out the flavors of the sausage.
Drizzle your vegetable skewers with olive oil and season them with herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic southern side dish that pairs perfectly with boudin.
You can make traditional cornbread from scratch or purchase pre-made mix from your local grocery store if you’re short on time.
Either way, the sweetness of the cornbread helps balance out the spices in the sausage.
To make your cornbread even more delicious, add ingredients like jalapenos and cheddar cheese for an extra kick!
6. Coleslaw
Pairing coleslaw with boudin is sure to bring out all its spicy flavors! Make your own coleslaw using cabbage, carrots and mayonnaise or pick up a pre-made package at your local grocery store if you don’t have much time to spare.
To give your coleslaw an extra kick, add jalapenos or diced onion to the mix. The coolness of the coleslaw pairs nicely with the heat of the sausage.
7. Fried Rice
Fried rice is a classic partner for boudin and can be spiced up in myriad ways. It’s also an easy way to feed a crowd since it can be made in large batches and reheated quickly.
For a more flavorful version, mix soy sauce and garlic into your fried rice recipe before adding the cooked boudin for a savory combination.
8. Red Beans and Rice
Red Beans and Rice is a Cajun staple and makes an excellent side dish to accompany boudin.
The spicy sausage is complemented by the creamy texture of red beans cooked with onion, celery, bell pepper, garlic powder, and other seasonings like bay leaves or thyme.
Add some diced boudin to the pot while the red beans are cooking for a satisfying meal that will stick to your ribs.
9. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob pairs perfectly with boudin thanks to its smoky flavor and summery sweetness.
Brush fresh ears of corn with melted butter or olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then grill until lightly charred for a simple side dish that can’t be beaten.
Discover More: Best Side Dishes to Serve with Corn on the Cob
10. Gumbo
Gumbo is a beloved Louisiana dish that pairs wonderfully with boudin due to its richness and depth of flavor from ingredients like okra, tomatoes, onions, garlic, bell peppers, celery, Worcestershire sauce, and Creole seasoning.
Serve up steaming bowls of gumbo alongside crispy fried boudin balls for maximum deliciousness! (Recipe)
11. Baked Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes are an excellent choice when looking for something to serve with boudin as they contrast nicely with its robust flavors while providing plenty of sweetness themselves.
For an extra special treat, try topping them off with marshmallows or brown sugar before baking in the oven until fork-tender perfection is achieved!
12. Sautéed Greens
A colorful medley of sautéed greens such as kale or collards tastes amazing alongside creamy slices of boudin as their bold flavor helps keep all the elements in balance while adding crunchy texture throughout the meal.
Try tossing some freshly sliced garlic into the same pan while sautéing your greens for even more complexity!
13. Macaroni & Cheese
Creamy macaroni & cheese always goes well together with almost any type of sausage, including boudin!
It’s always best when homemade, but store-bought instant varieties work just as well when you’re in need of comfort food fast!
Top it off with some grated parmesan cheese before popping it into the oven until bubbling perfection is achieved!
14. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are another classic accompaniment to nearly any type of sausage, including Boudin. If desired, additionally needed creaminess.
Their fluffy texture contrasts nicely against the spice found within the sausage itself, making the dish much more enjoyable than it had been served solo!
Additionally, mashed potatoes also act as great vessel absorbent condiments such as gravy and flavorful punch every now and again, especially during holidays and family gatherings alike,
So feel free to experiment with different recipes from time to time to bring balance across plates!
15. Fritters
Fritters provide a crunchy exterior accompanying soft chewiness inside, allowing mixing only a few ingredients yet still achieving mouthwatering results every time a bite is taken thanks deep frying process involved in making the ideal snack light dinner accompaniment.
Also, great way uses leftover ingredients pantry make something new and delicious
16. Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is a savory and hearty side dish that pairs well with boudin. It is made from white or brown rice that has been cooked in seasoned broth and mixed with vegetables, herbs, and spices for flavor.
The result is a delicious dish that can be served as a main course or side dish. In addition to being an ideal accompaniment for boudin, it also makes a great base for other dishes and can be topped with seasoned meats or fish for a full meal.
Rice pilaf is an easy-to-make side dish that is sure to please any crowd!
17. Collard Greens
Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine and pair perfectly with boudin.
This cruciferous vegetable is cooked down until it’s tender and mixed with flavorful ingredients such as bacon, onions, garlic, red pepper flakes, cider vinegar and a bit of sugar.
The result is a nutritious side dish that’s packed with flavor and will make you want to keep coming back for more. Enjoy this classic Southern dish alongside your favorite type of boudin for the perfect comfort food meal!
18. Baked Beans
Baked beans are a great side dish to pair with boudin. This classic dish is made from navy beans that are cooked in a sauce until they become tender and creamy.
The sauce is typically made up of ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, and seasonings such as Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, and chili powder.
The result is a flavorful dish that can be served either hot or cold. Enjoy this delicious side along with your favorite type of boudin for the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors!
Explore More: Side Dishes to serve with Potato Salad and Baked Beans
19. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries make a great side dish to accompany boudin. This delicious snack is made by slicing sweet potatoes into wedges and then frying them in hot oil until they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Enjoy this savory side dish with your favorite type of boudin for a unique combination of flavors that will leave you wanting more!
20. Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is another classic Southern-style dish that pairs perfectly with boudin.
This creamy comfort food is typically made from macaroni noodles mixed with a rich cheese sauce. It’s easy to make and can be customized by adding additional ingredients such as bacon or vegetables.
Enjoy macaroni and cheese with your favorite type of boudin for a delicious meal that is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters!
21. Baked Apples
Baked apples make a great sweet side dish to pair with boudin. This easy-to-make dessert consists of cored and sliced apples that are mixed with cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, and butter before being baked in an oven.
The result is a tender dessert that’s packed full of flavor.
Serve baked apples alongside your favorite type of boudin for the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors!
What sauce goes with boudin?
1. Creole Sauce
Creole Sauce is a spicy sauce made with tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers that pairs perfectly with boudin.
The combination of sweet and spicy flavors brings out the natural flavor of the boudin while also providing a flavorful kick.
2. Barbecue Sauce
Using a thick, smoky barbecue sauce to top off your boudin not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also helps keep the sausage moist as it cooks.
3. Mustard Sauce
Nothing quite says Southern cooking like a classic mustard sauce! Its tangy flavor complements the richness of the sausage for a well-rounded side dish or main course.
4. Honey Mustard Glaze
For those looking for something sweeter to pair with their boudin, honey mustard glaze is just the thing!
This mixture of honey, mustard, butter and garlic creates a smooth and delicious topping that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
5. Remoulade Sauce
Remoulade Sauce is a creamy mayonnaise-based sauce that is perfect for giving your boudin that added a bit of creaminess without overpowering its natural flavors.
Its delicate blend of herbs and spices adds just enough zest to make this pairing an unforgettable experience!
Find Out More: What to Serve with Sausage Stuffed Zucchini
What are the best flavors to go with Boudin?
The best flavors to pair with Boudin depend largely on personal preference. Some popular flavor combinations include:
– Cajun spices such as garlic, cayenne, paprika and oregano for a spicy kick
– Onion and parsley for a more subtle flavor
– Dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for a sweet contrast
– Apples and mustard for an autumnal feel
– Andouille sausage and bell peppers for an extra smoky taste.
No matter which flavors you choose to pair with your Boudin, the combination of ingredients is sure to be delicious! Enjoy!
How do you jazz up Boudin?
There are plenty of creative ways to jazz up Boudin. One way is by adding various seasonings and herbs, such as garlic powder, onion powder, sage, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
You can also try adding flavorful vegetables like bell peppers or onions to your Boudin mixture.
Another great way to add flavor is by sautéing the Boudin in some butter or olive oil before serving.
You can also make a delicious dip for your Boudin by mixing mayonnaise with creole mustard and chopped parsley.
Lastly, you can serve your Boudin with a variety of sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes or french fries for extra flavor and texture.
How do you display boudin on a platter?
When displaying boudin on a platter, it is important to consider both aesthetics and ease of serving.
Begin by arranging the links in an attractive pattern, such as in a circle or spiral design. You can add colorful garnishes like parsley or slices of bell pepper for added color and flavor.
Place toothpicks in each link so that guests can easily grab a piece with their own utensils.
Finally, serve the boudin with your favorite dipping sauces and accompaniments, such as crackers, sliced baguette, and pickles. Enjoy!
Wrap Up on What to Serve with Boudin
Boudin is a flavorful type of sausage that can be enjoyed by itself or paired with sides like vegetable skewers, cornbread and coleslaw to really bring out its flavors.
Whether you opt for savory potato salad, cheesy baked rice or crispy fried okra, you can rest assured knowing that these sides will take your meal up a notch on flavor, texture and presentation, ready to wow your guests!
So, go ahead; give these recipes a try and see just how amazing they can be when served alongside boudin!
FAQs
How much boudin per person?
This depends on the size of your party, as well as how much boudin each person plans to eat.
Generally speaking, one link of boudin per person should be enough for a small gathering, but if you have a larger group, you may want to consider purchasing two links per person.
Additionally, keep in mind that some people may not be familiar with boudin and will likely only eat a small portion.
If this is the case at your gathering, it is better to err on the side of caution and purchase slightly more than what you initially anticipated.
Ultimately, when it comes to determining how much boudin per person you need for a gathering, it’s best to know your audience and their eating habits before making any decisions. Happy eating!
What do Cajuns eat with boudin?
Cajuns often eat boudin with a variety of sides, including French fries, hushpuppies, grits, and coleslaw.
Some other popular dishes to accompany boudin include jambalaya, gumbo, red beans and rice, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes.
Boudin is also frequently served as part of a po’boy sandwich on French bread. Other items, such as fruits or vegetables, can be served alongside the dish to make it even more delicious.
Are you supposed to eat the skin on Boudin?
The answer to this question depends on personal preference. Some people enjoy eating the skin on Boudin, while others find it too chewy or not appealing.
Ultimately, it’s up to you! If you’re unsure whether or not you want to eat the skin, try taking a small bite of one piece before committing to eating the whole thing with the skin. This way, you can decide if it appeals to your taste buds or not. Enjoy!
What to serve with boudin balls?
Boudin balls are a delicious and unique snack that can be served alongside a variety of other dishes.
Some popular sides to serve with boudin balls include French fries, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, potato salad, and hush puppies.
Boudin balls can also be served as part of an appetizer platter with a selection of other finger foods such as chicken wings, jalapeno poppers, and vegetable spring rolls.
For an easy boudin ball meal idea, serve it with a side of fresh green salads or roasted vegetables for a light-balanced meal.
What to serve with boudin blanc?
One of the best accompaniments for boudin blanc is a side dish of roasted vegetables.
Roasted potatoes, carrots, and onions are great options that will add flavor and texture to the mild sausage.
Another popular option is applesauce or tangy cranberry relish. Both offer sweet flavors that will contrast nicely with the savory boudin blanc.
For even more flavor, serve your boudin blanc alongside some French bread or crusty baguette slices. The bread can be used to sop up any extra juices from the sausage or vegetables, making every bite delicious!
What do you eat with boudin noir?
Boudin noir is a type of blood sausage that is typically served as part of a French meal.
Traditionally, boudin noir is served with either mashed potatoes or boiled potatoes, lightly-cooked vegetables such as carrots and green beans, and warm crusty bread.
Some other traditional accompaniments for boudin noir include sauerkraut, apple compote, and white wine.
You can also serve boudin noir with pickles, mustard, or cranberry sauce to give it an extra flavor boost.
Additionally, the flavorful boudin noir pairs nicely with nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for added texture and taste.
