Author: Emily Gautreaux

Rich and Flavorful Oven-Braised Short Rib Pasta

Comfort food meets culinary finesse in this decadent Oven-Braised Short Rib Ragu with Rigatoni. This dish is a symphony of tender, melt-in-your-mouth short ribs, richly flavored vegetables, and a velvety sauce that clings to hearty rigatoni. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting a dinner party, this recipe from Food 52 will undoubtedly become a cherished favorite. It’s not just a dish—it’s an experience, blending simple techniques with bold, satisfying flavors.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its reliance on time-honored techniques rather than complex measurements. By searing the short ribs to perfection, crafting a flavorful sofrito, and allowing the sauce to simmer low and slow, you’ll coax out every ounce of flavor. Plus, it’s adaptable: while paccheri or rigatoni are ideal, any pasta shape that holds sauce well will work. Pair it with a crisp, citrusy arugula salad to balance the richness, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Ingredients for Short Rib Pasta:

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (148°C). Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs in batches until deeply browned on all sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
  2. Using the same pot, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery over low heat, stirring occasionally, until softened (about 10–15 minutes). Add the tomato paste and cook until it deepens in color, approximately 2 minutes. Deglaze the pan with red wine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom, and simmer until the wine is slightly reduced (3 minutes).
  3. Stir in the beef broth, Parmesan rind, and fresh herbs. Return the short ribs to the pot, ensuring they’re mostly submerged. Cover and transfer the pot to the oven. Braise for 3 hours, checking after 2 hours to ensure the liquid hasn’t evaporated. If needed, add ½–1 cup of broth.
  4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the rigatoni 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. Reserve ⅔ cup of the pasta water before draining.
  5. Remove the pot from the oven and discard the herbs. Transfer the short ribs to a plate and shred the meat, discarding bones and excess fat. Return the meat to the pot, stir in the cooked pasta, and add half the reserved pasta water. Mix well and adjust consistency with more pasta water if needed.
  6. Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Pair with an arugula salad dressed simply with lemon juice and olive oil for a refreshing contrast.

Perfect Pairings with the Short Rib Pasta:

To round out your meal, consider serving:

  • Arugula Salad: Toss fresh arugula with a squeeze of lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
  • Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is the perfect companion to soak up every bit of ragu.

This Oven-Braised Short Rib Ragu with Rigatoni isn’t just a recipe; it’s a celebration of slow cooking and bold flavors. With a few simple techniques and high-quality ingredients, you’ll create a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whether for a cozy weeknight or a special gathering, this ragu is guaranteed to impress.

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Exploring Huntsville: A Vibrant Blend of Space, Culture, and Nature

Known affectionately as Rocket City, Huntsville, Alabama, offers a fascinating blend of innovation, history, and vibrant culture. This Northern Alabama gem is most famous for its ties to NASA and space exploration but is also a city on the rise in countless other ways, as per this travel blog article from Southern Living. From exquisite dining experiences to serene natural escapes, Huntsville is a destination that combines modern attractions with Southern charm.

No visit to Huntsville would be complete without exploring its most iconic landmark, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. As the visitor center for NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, it showcases a rich history of space exploration, from the rockets that launched the first U.S. satellite to the propulsion systems that sent astronauts to the moon. Interactive exhibits, simulators, and virtual reality experiences bring space travel to life, making this museum a can’t-miss destination for anyone curious about the cosmos.

Huntsville’s dining options cater to every palate, making it a foodie’s paradise. Start your day with a visit to Honest Coffee Roasters, where you can enjoy specialty coffee, acai bowls, and breakfast sandwiches. For those looking to discover local flavors without the hassle of planning, Scene That Tours offers guided food tours that highlight Huntsville’s hidden culinary gems.

Downtown Huntsville boasts an impressive array of eateries. Indulge in upscale dining at Nick’s Ristorante or savor innovative dishes at The Bottle. For a casual yet flavorful experience, try the popular Commerce Kitchen, where Southern favorites like fried catfish and buttermilk chicken are served with a contemporary twist.

Art and creativity thrive in Huntsville, particularly at Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment. Housed in a renovated textile mill, this arts hub features galleries, artist studios, and live music venues. Visitors can browse works in various mediums, from ceramics to photography, and even watch artisans at work. Culinary options at Lowe Mill include unique treats like small-batch chocolates from Pizzelle’s Confections and Mediterranean-inspired fare at Poftà Bunà International.

For live performances, Huntsville offers venues that suit every taste. The Orion Amphitheater hosts major concerts and outdoor movie screenings, while the Von Braun Center features everything from Broadway productions to sporting events. Smaller venues like Mars Music Hall and The Electric Belle provide intimate settings to enjoy local and touring acts.

Huntsville’s scenic offerings are just as diverse as its cultural attractions. Big Spring International Park is a downtown oasis, perfect for a leisurely walk along shaded paths lined with blooming cherry trees. The park also hosts annual events like the Panoply Arts Festival and Concerts in the Park.

A trip to Monte Sano State Park is another way to connect with nature. This sprawling park encompasses over 2,000 acres, offering hiking trails, campgrounds, and breathtaking overlooks. Whether you visit in spring to admire vibrant blooms or in fall to enjoy the changing leaves, Monte Sano provides a tranquil retreat from city life.

Huntsville is home to several museums that showcase its rich history and creative spirit. The Huntsville Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of 19th and 20th-century American art, with rotating exhibits that highlight contemporary works in glass, clay, and other mediums.

For a botanical escape, the Huntsville Botanical Garden offers 118 acres of landscaped gardens, including a butterfly house and an aquatic garden. Seasonal events and educational programs make it a delightful destination year-round.

Lastly, step back in time at Burritt on the Mountain, a historic home and museum perched atop Round Top Mountain. With its panoramic views and tranquil trails, it’s a perfect spot for quiet reflection and a deeper appreciation of Huntsville’s past.

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Millennials on the Move: Lafayette and its Growing Popularity

For years, millennials seeking dynamic, urban lifestyles gravitated toward cities like Seattle, Denver, and Austin. However, the tides of popularity are shifting as these traditional hubs begin to lose their appeal. Rising from the shadows of these millennial magnets, Lafayette, Louisiana, has emerged as one of the most sought-after destinations for young professionals in 2024, as per this article from Houma Today.

According to a recent report by relocation company MoveBuddha, Lafayette ranks as the third most popular city for millennials to move to in 2024. The study, titled “2024’s Move-to Hotspots with the Most Millennials,” analyzed over 200,000 relocation-related searches, uncovering 67 cities with in-to-out move ratios above 1.25 and millennial populations higher than the national average. Lafayette stood out as the only Louisiana city to make the list, claiming a prestigious spot in the top three.

Lafayette’s inclusion in the top 10 list, alongside cities like Charleston, Savannah, and Bend, highlights the growing trend of millennials migrating to mid-sized cities that offer affordability and community-oriented lifestyles.

One of Lafayette’s biggest draws for millennials is its affordability. The city’s average home price is just $213,000, making it the most affordable location among the top 10 destinations on MoveBuddha’s list. This figure stands in stark contrast to Bend, Oregon, the most expensive city in the top 10, where the average home price soars to $736,000. The staggering $522,000 price difference underscores why Lafayette is increasingly attractive to millennials who prioritize financial stability and homeownership.

For young professionals seeking a high quality of life without breaking the bank, Lafayette provides the perfect balance. Its vibrant culture, rich history, and tight-knit community contribute to its charm, offering a sense of connection often lost in larger metropolitan areas.

While cities like Lafayette and Asheville are gaining popularity, former millennial strongholds such as Austin, Denver, and Seattle are experiencing a slowdown in growth. These cities, once celebrated for their bustling job markets and cultural amenities, now see nearly as many people moving out as moving in.

Though the millennial population in these cities remains high — Austin leads with 27%, while Denver and Seattle each boast 25% — their in-to-out move ratios tell a different story. Austin’s ratio is just 1.03, while Denver and Seattle sit at 1.05 and 1.12, respectively. These numbers indicate that the cost of living, housing affordability, and urban congestion are driving millennials to seek alternative destinations.

Lafayette’s rise as a millennial hotspot speaks to a broader trend of young people prioritizing affordability, cultural vibrancy, and a slower pace of life. The city offers a rich cultural tapestry, deeply rooted in Cajun and Creole traditions, which is evident in its cuisine, music, and community festivals. Millennials relocating to Lafayette can enjoy a unique blend of modern amenities and Southern charm, making it a compelling choice for those looking to escape the high costs and fast pace of larger cities.

Moreover, Lafayette’s economic accessibility allows millennials to invest in homeownership and build a stable foundation for their futures. With its growing population of young professionals, the city is poised to continue its upward trajectory, carving out a reputation as a millennial-friendly destination.

The migration of millennials to cities like Lafayette reflects changing priorities among this demographic. As affordability, work-life balance, and community take precedence over urban sprawl and sky-high living expenses, mid-sized cities are gaining the edge over traditional millennial hubs. This shift signals not only a change in where millennials are moving but also a transformation in the type of lifestyle they value most.

Lafayette’s emergence as a top destination for millennials in 2024 is no surprise given its affordability, cultural richness, and welcoming community. As young professionals continue to leave behind the challenges of living in larger cities, Lafayette stands ready to welcome them with open arms. The city’s unique blend of accessibility and vibrancy positions it as a beacon for the millennial generation seeking a fresh start.

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From Landfills to New Products: LSU’s Plastic Recycling Revolution

Researchers at Louisiana State University (LSU) have developed an innovative, low-cost method to plastic recycling waste, offering a promising solution to one of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. As per this article from LSU, this breakthrough technology could not only save billions of dollars annually but also significantly reduce the billions of tons of plastic pollution currently burdening the planet.

James Dorman, a program manager with the U.S. Department of Energy and former LSU Chemical Engineering professor, emphasized the importance of this advancement. He noted that recycling plastic involves more than just delivering it to a recycling plant; it also requires finding ways to reuse the waste effectively. According to Dorman, approximately 95% of plastic in the U.S. ends up in landfills or incinerators. The new method developed at LSU addresses this issue by breaking down common commercial plastics like polystyrene and high- and low-density polyethylene, allowing the recycled materials to be seamlessly reused in the production of new products.

The groundbreaking plastic recycling process, devised by Dorman and LSU Chemical Engineering Professor Kerry Dooley, employs electromagnetic induction heating in combination with specialized magnetic materials and catalysts. Unlike traditional recycling methods that rely on pyrolysis—a high-temperature process that produces significant greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen—this method melts plastics from the inside out using electromagnetic waves. This approach requires far less energy and produces only minimal amounts of methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

One of the unique advantages of this plastic recycling method is its adaptability. By operating at lower temperatures and allowing for precise control over the breakdown process, the technique can handle contaminants like food residues, which are often a barrier in traditional recycling systems. For instance, yogurt containers often end up in landfills because food residue contaminates the recycled material. The LSU method, however, can manage such contaminants, making it far more effective than conventional systems.

The journey of plastics typically begins with fossil fuels. Oil and natural gas are heated to create smaller molecules like ethylene and propylene, which are the foundational building blocks of plastics. These monomers are linked to form long-chain molecules known as polymers, which make up various types of plastic. Dorman explained that their method retains the essential monomers during the recycling process, enabling them to be reintegrated into the production of new plastics. For example, ethylene extracted from polyethylene during recycling can be reused to manufacture fresh polyethylene.

The economic implications of this method are significant. Ethylene, a highly valuable chemical, commands a global market worth approximately $150 billion. By recycling chemicals like ethylene and propylene, the LSU researchers aim to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Dooley highlighted that this extraction process not only cleans up the environment but also transforms what was once considered waste into a lucrative resource.

LSU Vice President of Research and Economic Development Robert Twilley lauded the innovation as a pivotal step toward building a research platform focused on energy resilience. He noted that by enhancing the recycling of carbon-based materials and reducing carbon emissions, LSU is addressing critical environmental challenges and paving the way for a sustainable energy future.

This innovation is part of LSU Innovation’s broader efforts to maximize the university’s impact on Louisiana’s intellectual, economic, and social development. LSU Innovation oversees a 200-acre business incubator known as LSU Innovation Park, which supports early-stage tech companies. It also manages the Louisiana Small Business Development Center (SBDC) network, providing free consulting services to small businesses statewide. Through initiatives like the National Science Foundation’s Innovation Corps (I-Corps) program, LSU Innovation educates faculty, students, and the community on entrepreneurial principles, helping innovators identify market opportunities for scientific advancements.

The development of this low-cost, energy-efficient recycling process exemplifies LSU’s commitment to addressing global challenges through research and innovation. By creating a practical and scalable solution to plastic waste, LSU is not only reducing environmental harm but also fostering economic growth through technological advancements.

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Louisiana Innovation: How Tulane Is Changing Cancer Treatment

In the heart of Tulane University’s School of Science and Engineering, groundbreaking research was taking place, albeit with some unconventional challenges. On a recent weekday, the lab endured an unavoidable stench—a decomposing cow’s digestive tract. The organ, collected from the Northshore and stored over the weekend, had spoiled, rendering the fridge unsalvageable. For Dr. J. Quincy Brown, a biomedical engineering professor, mishaps like these were just part of the demanding process, as per this article from The Advocate. His team was racing against time to develop a revolutionary cancer surgery device, and they had only five years to achieve their ambitious goals. Brown described the team’s approach as “scrappy.” They sourced animal parts, such as organs from slaughterhouses and butchers, at no cost. These tissues served as stand-ins for human anatomy, allowing the team to refine their imaging techniques before human trials began. The project aimed to address a critical issue in cancer treatment: ensuring no cancer cells were left behind during surgery.

The team’s innovative device would allow surgeons to detect cancer cells in real-time during operations. Currently, removed cancerous tissue is sent for pathology, a process that can take days or weeks to confirm whether the margins are free of cancer. Brown’s team hoped to condense this timeline to just 10 minutes, enabling surgeons to act before the patient left the operating table. This breakthrough could dramatically reduce the need for additional surgeries and improve outcomes for patients.

The work was propelled by a $23 million contract from President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot program, part of a national effort to reduce cancer deaths by 4 million over the next 25 years. Brown clarified that the funding was not a grant; it came with strict expectations, including the delivery of a functional prototype within two years and readiness for hospital use by 2029.

Brown’s co-lead, computer scientist Dr. Brian Summa, illustrated the current challenges in pathology. He likened a tumor to a loaf of bread, explaining that traditional pathology examines just a few slices of tissue, leaving much of the tumor unanalyzed. The new device aims to photograph and analyze an entire tumor at a cellular level, generating up to four terabytes of data in just ten minutes. For context, a single terabyte can store 250 full-length movies. This massive data processing feat involves artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cutting-edge engineering.

While the device’s potential was vast, the road to success was fraught with technical challenges. During a prototype demonstration for President Biden, the laser failed twice due to the cold temperature in the room, forcing the team to scramble for fixes. Recently, a blurry image led them to discover that vibrations from an air conditioner were affecting the device. Such real-world hurdles were helping the team refine the technology to withstand hospital conditions.

The Moonshot project had also attracted top talent, many of whom were eager to return to Louisiana. Among the recruits were a Jesuit High School graduate from Alabama, a University of New Orleans alumnus from Sicily, and the daughter of a New Orleans musician relocating from Michigan. The team hoped to keep the technology rooted in Louisiana, with plans to deploy the device in two hospitals and two rural facilities by the end of the project’s five-year timeline.

The Tulane team’s efforts in cancer treatment and research represent a beacon of hope in cancer treatment. While the challenges are immense, the potential rewards—a significant reduction in cancer recurrence, fewer surgeries, and improved patient outcomes—are worth the struggle. The device promises to not only revolutionize surgery but also strengthen Louisiana’s role in cutting-edge medical research.

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Mardi Gras Baking Made Easy: Cinnamon-Cream Cheese King Cake

Nothing encapsulates the spirit of Mardi Gras better than the iconic King Cake, and this Cinnamon-Cream Cheese King Cake recipe from Louisiana Cookin takes the celebration to the next level. With its tender, buttery dough, a rich cream cheese filling, and a decadent frosting topped with vibrant sanding sugars, this recipe is a showstopper for any gathering. Whether you’re in Louisiana or just want to bring the carnival spirit to your kitchen, this King Cake recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

Directions:

Prepare the Filling:

  1. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese at medium speed until smooth. Add confectioners’ sugar, egg yolk, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt, mixing at low speed until thoroughly combined. Set aside.

Prepare the Dough:

  1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine 2 cups flour, sugar, yeast, and salt using the paddle attachment.
  2. In a medium saucepan, heat water, butter, and vanilla over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture reaches 120°-130°F. Add this warm mixture to the flour and yeast, beating at medium speed until combined. Allow to cool slightly for about 2 minutes.
  3. Add eggs and egg yolk, mixing at medium speed until incorporated. Gradually add the remaining flour, beating on low speed until a cohesive dough forms.
  4. Switch to the dough hook and knead on low speed for about 8 minutes until the dough is soft and slightly sticky.
  5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and shape it into a smooth round. Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough inside, and turn to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free place (about 75°F) until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.

Assemble the King Cake:

  1. Lightly punch down the risen dough and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Divide the dough into two equal portions.
  2. Roll one portion into a 24×6-inch rectangle. Spread half of the cream cheese filling over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border on one long side. Brush this border with egg wash (1 egg whisked with 1 tablespoon water). Roll the dough jelly roll-style, pinching the seam to seal. Repeat with the second portion of dough.
  3. Gently twist the two filled dough logs together, shaping them into a circle. Pinch the ends to seal, using additional egg wash if necessary. Transfer the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free spot until puffed, about 30-45 minutes.

Bake the King Cake:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush the risen dough with the remaining egg wash.
  2. Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the cake is lightly golden and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 190°F. If browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil halfway through baking.
  3. Allow the cake to cool on the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frost and Garnish:

  1. Prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese, milk, and vanilla at medium speed until smooth. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, mixing on low speed until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
  2. Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and decorate with colored sanding sugar in the traditional Mardi Gras colors—purple, green, and gold.

This Cinnamon-Cream Cheese King Cake is a perfect centerpiece for Mardi Gras celebrations or any occasion that calls for a touch of festivity. The process might seem involved, but the results are well worth the effort, bringing the flavors of New Orleans into your home. With its vibrant colors and luscious layers, this cake is a delicious way to share joy and tradition with loved ones.

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