Many of his dishes are complete meals, perfect to serve for that special someone or for a dinner party.

Most of his recipes have a cajun flare, perfect for Mardi Gras in Martin this upcoming week. Bon Appetite!

Mardi Gras Jambalaya
•2 tablespoons vegetable oil •1 domestic duck (about 5 pounds) cut into eight pieces •Essence, recipe follows •2 cups chopped onions •1 cup chopped bell pepper •1/2 cup chopped celery •1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch slices •4 bay leaves •2 cups chopped tomatoes, peeled and seeded •1 tablespoon chopped garlic •2 cups white rice •8 cups chicken stock •1 pound rock shrimp •1 cup chopped green onions •Salt and cayenne

In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil. Season the duck with Essence.

When the oil is hot, add the duck, skin side down, and sear for six minutes and then turn the duck over and continue to sear for four minutes. Remove the duck from the pan and set aside. Add the onions, peppers and celery to the pan. Season with salt and cayenne.

Saute the vegetables for about five minutes, or until the vegetables are wilted.

Add the sausage and saute for two minutes. Add the bay leaves, tomatoes and garlic. Saute for two minutes. Stir in the rice and saute for two minutes. Add the stock. Season with salt and cayenne. Add the reserved duck. Bring the liquid up to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cook the jambalaya for 30 minutes, covered, stirring occasionally. Season the rock shrimp. Add the shrimp to the pan and continue to cook for 30 minutes. Stir in the green onions and reseason if necessary.

Emeril’s ESSENCE Creole Seasoning (also referred to as Bayou Blast) •2 1/2 tablespoons paprika •2 tablespoons salt •2 tablespoons garlic powder •1 tablespoon black pepper •1 tablespoon onion powder •1 tablespoon cayenne pepper •1 tablespoon dried oregano •1 tablespoon dried thyme

Combine all ingredients thoroughly. Yield: 2/3 cup.

The dish yields six servings. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare before putting in the oven. After that, it takes about an hour and a half to cook.

For more of Emeril’s recipes, visit the Food Network Web site at www.foodnetwork.come or visit his site for exclusive recipes at www.Emerils.com.