10 Things To Include In A ‘Louisiana Care Package’

Do you have loved ones in the military, working, or going to school out of state? There's nothing like someone from Louisiana, getting a 'Louisiana Care Package.' Especially if they are feeling a little homesick.

It's tough being away from home no matter where you're from. However, Louisianians are accustomed to certain foods and seasonings. So, anytime you can give them a taste from home, it's a good thing. Speaking of which, here are a few things to help make your 'Louisiana Care Package' the ultimate gift from home.

1.) Zapps Voodoo Chips

These chips are so good, it's impossible to each just one. You have to eat the entire bag! They are so crunchy and bursting with flavor that it's unbelievable. They come in a variety of flavors, but they are far better than any chip you've had in your life.

2.) Chicory Coffee From Cafe' Du Monde

Chicory was first used in New Orleans during the Civil War because the fighting shut down the Port of New Orleans. This blocked coffee shipments from the Caribbean and South America. Though coffee was very much in high demand the local supply was starting to run out.

They took chicory root and ground it up to stretch the coffee. It worked so well, that they still make and sell the chicory blended coffee at Cafe' du Monde. Chicory gives bold, black NOLA coffee a nutty, chocolate flavor and most folks from that neck of the woods don't drink any other coffee. So, if you have a loved one from Nawlins, and they're a little homesick a can of chicory coffee is sure to brighten their day.

3.) Steen's Syrup

If you want to experience Louisiana sweetness, grab some Steen's pure cane syrup. Whether you use it on pancakes, biscuits, sausage, or a delicious popcorn ball, Steen's just makes things taste better. This syrup has been made in Louisiana since 1910!

4.) A T-Shirt From Parish Ink

If you want a cool Louisiana-inspired tee, you've got to get one from this Lafayette t-shirt shop. These guys make the cutest shirts ever! No matter the occasion or funny Louisiana slogan or sayin', you're bound to find it here. If someone is missin' home, send them one of these babies.

5.) Slap Ya Mama / Tony's Chachere's Seasoning

Tony's Chachere's is a Louisiana staple that's been sprucing up Creole and Cajun dishes since 1972. It's the salt with that extra, extra. Delicious! Slap Ya Mama, is another go-to, for any amazing dish created in a Louisiana kitchen. It's less salty than Tony's, but just as good. I use them both a lot of the time.

6.) Praline Candy Laura's Candies or Southern Candy Makers (Best Praline) 

Praline candy is as timeless as the state of Louisiana. Two of the absolute best places to get this delectable candy treat are in NOLA, of course. If you haven't had the pleasure, try these two legendary candy-making shops! You order online too.

7.) Tabasco

It ain't good if it ain't gotta dash or two of some good Louisiana Tabasco Cher! It adds that extra oomph to every dish! My favorite dishes for a few dashes of Tabasco are rice & gravy, and gumbo. Yum!

8.) Community Coffee

Hands down, this is my favorite coffee. I can't go one morning without at least one cup. If you want to send a loved one a little something from home, this is it! Since 1919, this Community Coffee has been a Louisiana tradition.

9.) Zatarains Fish Fry or Crab Boil

If you don't fry it or boil it in Zatarain's, it ain't worth eatin'! There is just something about this Louisiana seasoning that makes fish, shrimp, and crabs taste amazing.

10.) Boudin

It is a Louisiana delicacy in various flavors: smoked or regular, hot, spicy, or mild. It's easy to cook, easy to freeze, and easy to mail. Most of all, it's delicious to eat!