Cajun popcorn is an irresistible appetizer made with deep-fried crawfish. Paul Prudhomme, the chef and owner of K-Paul’s Restaurant in New Orleans, shared this recipe in 1983 with Craig Claiborne. It was featured in a menu for an economic summit held in Williamsburg, Va. Mr. Claiborne created three days of meal programming that he hoped would display the geographic and gastronomic diversity of the United States. If crawfish is not readily available where you live, look for frozen crawfish tails online.
In a large bowl, combine the corn flour and all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, garlic, onion, peppers, thyme and bay leaves. Blend well. Gradually add the milk mixture, stirring well with a whisk. Let stand one hour at room temperature.
04Heat one inch of oil in a black iron skillet or use a deep-fat fryer. It is important that the oil be heated to a temperature as close to 370 degrees as possible. Coat the seafood with batter and drop it a few pieces at a time in the hot fat. This will be done in several batches. Cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown all over, about two minutes total cooking time.
05As the food is cooked, drain well of paper towels. Serve with garlic mayonnaise on the side.