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Home • Food & Drinks

Roots and Recipes: Toya and Reginae Cook Up New Orleans Classics

Toya and Reginae celebrate Black History Month with authentic New Orleans recipes passed down through their family.
By Essence · Updated February 17, 2026
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Toya and Reginae are bringing real New Orleans flavor to the kitchen with recipes passed down through their family for generations. Rooted in tradition and culture, every dish carries a story. And cooking them together during Black History Month just feels right.

Stuffed Bell Peppers / Main Dish

Roots and Recipes: Toya and Reginae Cook Up New Orleans Classics

From Mama’s cookbook to the family table, this New Orleans classic is all about authenticity. No shortcuts, no “inspired by”—just the real deal made with love. When the recipe comes from Grandma, you already know it’s certified.

Roots and Recipes: Toya and Reginae Cook Up New Orleans Classics

Red Beans w/ Pickled Meat & Smoked Sausage

Roots and Recipes: Toya and Reginae Cook Up New Orleans Classics

This red beans recipe is the real New Orleans deal, made with pickled meat, smoked sausage, and layers of seasoning that build flavor slowly and intentionally. Serve it over white rice and let the tradition speak for itself.

Roots and Recipes: Toya and Reginae Cook Up New Orleans Classics

Heritage Honey Peach Fizz

The Heritage Honey Peach Fizz blends fresh lemon juice, peach nectar, honey syrup, bourbon, and Coca-Cola for a sweet Southern touch. It’s smooth, bright, and layered with flavor.

  • 2 oz. bourbon
  • ¼ cup Coca-Cola® Classic (chilled) 
  • 2 oz. peach nectar
  • ½ oz honey syrup (mix equal parts honey and warm water)
  • ½ oz fresh lemon juice
  • 2-3 fresh peach slices
  • Ice cubes
Roots and Recipes: Toya and Reginae Cook Up New Orleans Classics

Bayou Road

The Bayou Rd. keeps things crisp with fresh lime juice, minced ginger, and Coca-Cola over ice. It’s refreshing with just the right kick of spice. Simple, clean, and made to raise a glass to good company.

  • 1 cup Coca-Cola® Classic (chilled)      
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tsp of fresh mint leaves
  • ½ tsp of grated ginger
  • mint sprig and lime wedge for garnish
  • Ice cubes
TOPICS:  Coca-Cola ReginaeCarter Roots&Recipes ToyaJohnsonRushing