Pappadeaux is a restaurant chain in Texas that serves cajun & creole food. For a chain place, I have really enjoyed eating there. They tend to even have creative specials too. When I get to suggest business lunches, I always go for Pappadeaux. It doesn't hurt that it's close to the office either. Anyway, here it is!

1. Boil crawfish in a large pot of water. Drain & cool until crawfish can be handled easily, remove tail & save shells. Refriderate tail meat.

2. Heat oil in large sauce pan or Dutch oven. Add crawfish shells, paprika & cayenne. Saute 5 minutes. Add water & bring to boil. Reduce heat & simmer 30 minutes.

3. Strain liquid into another pan. Crush shells to remove remaining liquid & add that liquid. Discard shells.

4. Return to heat and add onion, bell pepper, tomato paste, cream & tomato. Simmer 1 hour, stirring frequently. Add brandy and crawfish tail meat. Simmer 10 minutes. Serve hot.

Jan 14, 9