Whatcha Cookin’? New Iberia Native Stirs Up Local Flavor

Published 6:25 am Tuesday, December 3, 2024

For Gabby Comeaux Wilson, a New Iberia native, the kitchen has always been a place of creativity and connection. That passion has now taken shape in Whatcha Cookin’ Cajun Seasoning, a locally produced, low-sodium spice blend that brings together all the classic Louisiana flavors—garlic, onion, celery, bell pepper, and just a hint of spice. Wilson is also the founder of the popular Facebook community Whatcha’ Got Cookin’, Good Lookin’?, which boasts over 80,000 members. The page serves as a hub where food lovers come together to share recipes, showcase dishes, and celebrate their passion for cooking.

“My cooking page was the inspiration for my seasoning,” she explained. “I wanted to incorporate the name, and something everyone could enjoy. So keeping the sodium low while having flavor was important to accommodate everyone.” Crafted with health and versatility in mind, the seasoning reflects years of experimentation and dedication. “Everyone has to add these ingredients to their dishes, and it’s all packed in one can for you while keeping sodium extremely low,” she added.

A Flavorful Journey

Wilson’s dream of creating her own seasoning began in 2015. After years of planning, she officially launched her product in 2024, choosing to keep every aspect of production and packaging local. “It’s packaged right here in New Iberia through Louisiana House of Spice, as well as sold in local grocery stores,” she said, listing Bi-Lo, Mill Side, and La Salle Gas as current retailers. Supporting local businesses and communities has been a driving force. “I kept everything local to support the community,” she said. “My heart is happy to have families trust my product.”

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Her customers have made the effort worthwhile. “My favorite compliment has been, ‘This is my only seasoning I use now!’” she said. “It’s just an affirmation for me.”

Even the name holds sentimental value. It’s a nod to the classic Hank Williams song “Hey, Good Lookin’,” which Wilson’s mother often sang in the kitchen. “When my husband tried the blend for the first time, he said, ‘This is the one!’ So I knew this was it,” she said.

A Big Event for Small Businesses

Her commitment to supporting her community extends beyond her seasoning blend. On Jan. 11, she will host Shop Small Saturday, a vendor event in New Iberia celebrating local small businesses. The event will feature vendor booths, free food, artwork, appearances by social media influencers, and of course,  Whatcha Cookin’ Cajun Seasoning. “This is a huge event to help support small businesses,” Wilson added. Additional details about the event will be shared on Facebook in the coming weeks.

Whatcha Cookin’

With its vibrant flavor, health-conscious design, and deep ties to the local community, Whatcha Cookin’ Cajun Seasoning represents more than a product—it’s a testament to her love for her roots and her belief in the power of food to bring people together.

As she often asks, “So as always, whatcha cookin’?”

Follow along with Gabby here:

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