Viet Cajun Seafood Stew Recipe
Vietnamese Cajun Seafood Stew
During (and after) the Fall of Saigon in 1975, large waves of Vietnamese refugees immigrated to southeast Texas and the Mississippi River delta in Louisiana; a regions that resembles the Mekong Delta. Naturally, they brought (and infused) their lineage and cultural practices into work industries that highlighted their craft, fishing, and cooking. And in their genuine effort to be resourceful, also encompassing influences of their community, it gave birth to Vietnamese-Cajun Seafood.
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Hi there!
I’m Tu David Phu—a chef, storyteller, and proud Oakland native with a deep love for the flavors and traditions of Vietnamese cuisine. This space reflects everything I hold close: the roots that shaped me, the flavors that define me, and the stories I’m passionate about sharing.
From my mom’s apartment garden in Oakland to collaborating with kitchens, farmers, craftsmen, producers, scientists, and thought leaders around the world, everything here is a celebration of connection. As a Vietnamese-American shaped by Third Culture, my work honors tradition while embracing the influences of the communities that surround and inspire us.
These experiences, flavors, and relationships are simple, soulful, and deeply personal. My hope is that they inspire you to cook with heart, explore with curiosity, and celebrate the vibrant intersections of culture and cuisine.
Explore My Work
Curious about what I’ve been up to? Dive into the stories, flavors, and passions that shape my journey:
GiGi's – My Vietnamese-inspired wine bar in San Francisco, where tradition meets innovation.
Bloodline – An Emmy-nominated PBS documentary sharing the rich cultural history and personal journey behind my food.
The Memory of Taste – My cookbook, co-authored with Soleil Ho, celebrates Vietnamese heritage and food's power to tell stories.
Food Journeys – From TEDx talks to culinary panels, I share stories that explore culture, community, and the connections we create through cuisine.