I grew up in the Deep South on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.  Food is a huge part of the area's culture.  Friendships may even be at risk over whether "my mama's gumbo is better than yours".  Traditions and food are deep-rooted in French, Spanish, African, and Native American cultures. Within Southern Cooking, there are so many varieties:  Creole, Soul Food, Cajun, Gulf Coast, Tex-Mex, Low Country, and more.  One ingredient they all have in common is family and love!