re: What are some items/ingredients common in Louisiana kitchens but rare in others?

Yeah, I just don't think food regions are as nearly distinct as they once were. I don't live in Louisiana and only lived there briefly when I was very young, but most of the stuff mentioned so far is in our kitchen. We've got Tony's, Slap Yo Mama, file, pepper vinegar (who doesn't?), various hot sauces, Steen's cane syrup (would like to have the vinegar, but can't find it), and so on. We also have stuff that reflects other parts of the country like Old Bay, maple syrup, hot honey, and so on.