Jessie James Decker credits jambalaya for winning Eric Decker in one weekend

Jessie James Decker says a single dish of jambalaya secured her marriage to Eric Decker after just one weekend together. The country singer disclosed the detail in an interview with Fox News Digital, explaining that the meal was the key to winning over the former NFL wide receiver.

Decker, who is co-authoring her fourth cookbook, "The Secret Sauce," with her mother Karen Parker and sister Sydney Rae Bass, described food as a central element of their relationship. She noted that Eric, whom she characterized as a Midwesterner unfamiliar with Southern Cajun cuisine, has become one of her most devoted taste testers. Decker emphasized that she could not have married someone who viewed meals merely as fuel, stating that in their household, eating is an event and a celebration.

The new cookbook features a chapter titled "Cajun Queen," which Decker says is one of Eric's favorites. She attributes this preference to her upbringing, noting that her mother fed the family primarily Cajun food, which she describes as having significant flavor. Despite his enthusiasm, Decker explained that Eric tends to be tactful when a dish does not meet his expectations. Instead of offering direct criticism, he typically responds with general praise or asks a careful question to gauge her thoughts on the meal.

Eric has also promoted the book through social media, continuing a family tradition of playful marketing. In a video posted to Decker's Instagram account, he appeared in nude-colored underwear to make puns about the cookbook's title. He asked viewers if they needed "something hot and ready" while standing before a pizza oven and if they wanted "morning buns" while showing his backside. Decker noted that this type of promotion is a recurring practice for the couple, as Eric has previously stripped down to advertise her other cookbooks.

Beyond cooking, the family prioritizes shared meals as a nonnegotiable routine. With four children, Vivianne, Eric Jr., Forrest and Denver, and busy schedules filled with sports and school activities, Decker said protecting family time requires effort. The family ritual includes eating dinner together at the table, with bread and oil placed in the center. Decker recalled Denver's frequent requests for more butter as a cherished part of these moments, stating that they always find their way back to the dinner table regardless of life's challenges.

Sydney Rae Bass added that she and Jessie do not strictly follow recipes, often adding their own flair to dishes. Bass also acknowledged that Jessie makes the biggest mess in the kitchen. Karen Parker told Fox News Digital that the family once treated their recipes as closely guarded secrets before deciding to share them. Parker expressed hope that readers will use the recipes to create their own traditions, noting that while the recipes originated in the family's Southern, Sicilian and Cajun roots, they now belong to anyone who cooks them.

"The Secret Sauce" is available now.