Author: Emily Gautreaux

Creamy Browned Butter Sweet Potatoes with Toasted Pecans

With the holidays around the corner, this Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes recipe from Louisiana Cookin offers a rich, flavorful side dish that promises to add warmth and comfort to your dining table. Imagine creamy, golden-brown mashed sweet potatoes infused with the nuttiness of browned butter, complemented by the rich sweetness of brown sugar and a subtle kick of fresh thyme. It’s a cozy, yet elevated twist on traditional mashed sweet potatoes that pairs beautifully with classic holiday dishes and serves as an irresistible addition to any fall or winter feast.

Sweet potatoes themselves bring a natural sweetness, and their smooth, creamy texture makes them an ideal ingredient for mashing. When paired with browned butter, which has a uniquely nutty and deep flavor, they create a wonderfully harmonious dish that’s as impressive in taste as it is easy to make. In this recipe, toasted pecans and fresh thyme add texture and an earthy finish, making these mashed sweet potatoes a complete crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

  • 4 pounds sweet potatoes (about 4 large potatoes), peeled and cubed
  • ¼ cup chopped toasted pecans for garnish
  • ½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons firmly packed light brown sugar
  • ¼ cup heavy whipping cream for added richness
  • 2 cups chicken broth to infuse the potatoes with savory flavor
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter for browning
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper for a subtle spice
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt for seasoning

Directions:

  1. Start by melting the butter in a medium stock pot or a Dutch oven over medium heat. Stir continuously with a whisk for about 7 to 10 minutes until the butter turns a deep golden brown and releases a rich, nutty aroma. Once the butter has browned to perfection, transfer it carefully to a heatproof bowl. This browned butter will be divided—some will be stirred into the mashed sweet potatoes, and the rest will be used as a decadent topping.
  2. In the same pot, add the cubed sweet potatoes, chicken broth, and kosher salt. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat, cover, and cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The potatoes should become very tender and easily mashed, with the broth enhancing their natural sweetness and deepening the overall flavor profile.
  3. Once the sweet potatoes are soft and fully cooked, add the heavy whipping cream to the pot. Begin mashing the potatoes directly in the pot until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency. If you prefer a rustic texture, leave a few chunks for a bit of bite. Stir in half of the browned butter, letting it melt and infuse the sweet potatoes with that nutty warmth.
  4. Transfer the mashed sweet potatoes to a serving bowl, then drizzle the remaining browned butter over the top. Sprinkle with the toasted pecans, which add a delightful crunch, the light brown sugar for an extra touch of sweetness, the freshly ground black pepper, and the fresh thyme leaves. The result is an eye-catching dish with layers of flavors that are bound to impress.

These Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes deliver comfort and decadence in every bite, making them perfect for holiday feasts, family gatherings, or even a cozy weeknight meal. The process is straightforward, and the final dish is loaded with warmth and texture that’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. The browned butter imparts a nutty, deep flavor that elevates the sweet potatoes, while the pecans and thyme give the dish an added crunch and burst of freshness. Serve it alongside your favorite roast or enjoy it as a stand-alone dish—either way, these mashed sweet potatoes will likely become a new family favorite!

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Engineering Program Expands with UNO Partnership

Nicholls State University recently took a transformative step toward advancing its local engineering program by establishing the Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering. This initiative, made possible by a generous $1 million donation from the family of Clifford Smith, honors the deep-rooted legacy of Clifford Smith, a respected civil engineer and land surveyor. In partnership with the University of New Orleans (UNO), this new school will enable students to obtain a comprehensive engineering degree, combining advanced academic instruction and hands-on industry experience, right in the Bayou Region, as per this news article from The Nicholls Worth.

The development of the Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering aligns with Nicholls’ commitment to providing relevant, career-oriented education to its students and further enhances the region’s educational landscape. Through their partnership with UNO, Nicholls can offer students a streamlined pathway to earn an engineering degree without needing to relocate to other regions, addressing a longstanding challenge for aspiring engineers in the area.

At the core of Nicholls’ vision for the Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering is its partnership with the University of New Orleans. This collaboration allows students at Nicholls to pursue an engineering degree through the established program offered by UNO. By bridging academic offerings between the two institutions, students in the Bayou Regiongain access to specialized engineering education that aligns with the current demands of the industry. This partnership empowers students to stay rooted in their community while achieving their professional goals, making it an appealing option for many who may have otherwise faced challenges in obtaining a comprehensive engineering education locally.

Alongside the academic benefits, the new school of engineering at Nicholls also opens doors for meaningful industry experience. Students pursuing an engineering degree will have access to internships with a leading regional engineering firm, allowing them to gain valuable, hands-on knowledge. The internships provide students with the skills and experience essential to their careers and offer local businesses the opportunity to contribute to the next generation of engineers who may eventually strengthen the regional workforce.

Clifford Smith’s family played a pivotal role in the development of the new school, motivated by their desire to honor his contributions to the field and to the Bayou community. Clifford’s son, Kenneth Smith, recounted the profound impact his father had on both the engineering industry and the local community, noting that his father’s career began through his work alongside his own father, T. Baker Smith, at their family business. T. Baker Smith founded the self-named firm in 1913, and following his passing in 1962, the company leadership was entrusted to Clifford. Under Clifford’s guidance, the firm became a mainstay in the Bayou Region’s engineering landscape, gaining a reputation for excellence and integrity.

According to Kenneth, Clifford’s legacy as a civil engineer and land surveyor “left an indelible mark on our profession and community.” Over the years, the T. Baker Smith firm has hired numerous Nicholls graduates, creating a strong bond between the institution and the firm. Kenneth highlighted this connection, expressing that the quality of Nicholls graduates has always been a testament to the value of Nicholls’ educational impact and alignment with industry standards.

Nicholls State University President Jay Clune expressed deep gratitude for the support of the Smith family, noting that this “generous gift” is a tribute not only to Clifford Smith but also to the Bayou Region as a whole. Clune emphasized that Clifford Smith’s name symbolizes “high-quality engineering and land surveying” and his contributions have extended beyond Nicholls to positively influence the entire region.

As the program evolves, Nicholls anticipates that the Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering will become a cornerstone of regional engineering excellence. By fostering local talent and maintaining strong connections with regional firms, the school will contribute meaningfully to the Bayou Region’s industry and economy, offering both an academic and economic boost to the local community.

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Uncover Winchester, Virginia’s Cultural and Outdoor Wonders

Winchester, Virginia, located in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley near the Virginia-West Virginia border, offers a rich blend of history, nature, and small-town charm. Whether you’re drawn to its bustling downtown scene, cultural landmarks, or nearby natural attractions, Winchester makes for a memorable travel destination. Its proximity to the Appalachian Trail and the Shenandoah River adds an outdoorsy element to this quaint town, making it a fantastic stop for adventurers. Here’s some must-visit landmarks, activities, and nature spots while exploring Winchester, Virginia, thanks to this travel guide from Southern Living.

For country music enthusiasts, a tour of the Patsy Cline House and Museum is an unforgettable experience. This modest house, where Cline lived during her formative years, tells the story of her rise to fame through recordings and memorabilia. The museum also provides a glimpse into mid-20th-century life, with decor reminiscent of the time period in which Cline would have lived there.

If you’re a fan of the performing arts, don’t miss a show at the Winchester Little Theatre. Housed in a former Pennsylvania Railroad freight station built in 1895, this community theater puts on a variety of performances throughout the year, ranging from comedies to dramas. The theater’s intimate setting makes for an engaging experience that allows visitors to enjoy local talent.

When in Winchester, enjoying the local food scene is a must. One of the standout eateries is Oak Stone Pizza, known for its wood-fired pizzas that strike the perfect balance between classic and creative. The Smithfield Luau pizza, for example, blends Hawaiian flavors with Virginia ham, offering a delightful fusion of sweet and savory. This makes it an ideal stop for a casual lunch, especially after a morning of sightseeing downtown. For breakfast, Bonnie’s Southern Market and Bakery is a local gem. Offering comforting Southern breakfast dishes, this spot is perfect for fueling up before a day of exploration. A popular choice is the brisket and eggs, which combines smoky barbecue flavors with traditional breakfast fare.

If you’re in need of a caffeine boost, stop by Hopscotch Coffee and Records. This unique spot serves up locally roasted Lone Oak Coffee in a cozy setting filled with vinyl records, adding a cool, laid-back vibe to your coffee break. Whether you’re looking for a morning cup of coffee or an afternoon pick-me-up, Hopscotch is the perfect spot to relax.

For those looking to venture further, Sky Meadows State Park offers more extensive hiking trails, rolling hills, and open fields perfect for a day of exploring. In the warmer months, kayaking on the lower Shenandoah River is another fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors, offering both adventure and a peaceful connection to nature.

Winchester is also home to several rural farm markets where visitors can pick up fresh produce, local jams, and baked goods. A visit to one of Frederick County’s farm stands is a great way to bring a piece of the Shenandoah Valley home with you. Many markets offer a Farm Explorer Passport, allowing you to collect stamps from each stand you visit.

When it comes to accommodations, the George Washington Hotel offers a charming and historic stay in the heart of downtown Winchester. This hotel is within walking distance of Loudoun Street, a pedestrian mall known for its restaurants and boutique shopping. Its convenient location makes it a perfect home base for exploring all that Winchester has to offer.

Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor adventurer, or just looking to enjoy some small-town charm, Winchester, Virginia, is a destination worth exploring. Its rich cultural landmarks, local cuisine, and natural beauty make it a standout in the Shenandoah Valley region.

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Creamy Chili Crisp Pasta: A Quick and Flavorful Weeknight Dinner

There are few things more satisfying than a pasta dish that comes together in under 30 minutes and delivers a perfect balance of creamy richness and spicy heat. Enter this Creamy Chili Crisp Pasta recipe from Epicurious, a simple yet vibrant meal that’s sure to make its way into your weekly dinner rotation. With tangy Greek yogurt forming the base of a luscious sauce and chili crisp providing an addictive, tongue-tingling kick, this dish is a true weeknight wonder. It’s not only easy to whip up but also flexible enough to cater to different taste preferences.

The use of Greek yogurt as the primary sauce base brings a tangy, creamy element that keeps the dish light yet indulgent. Mixing it with starchy pasta water helps achieve a glossy texture, similar to Alfredo sauce, but with a refreshing tang. The chili crisp, a popular condiment known for its flavorful combination of chili oil, fried garlic, and fermented soybeans, takes things up a notch. One bite and you’ll understand why this pasta is a hit. With minimal effort and ingredients, you get a restaurant-quality meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this fantastic dish.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Make sure to generously salt the water, as this is your only chance to properly season the pasta. Once the water is boiling, add 1 pound of spaghetti (or any pasta of your choosing) and cook until al dente, about 1 minute less than the package directions. You want the pasta to be slightly undercooked since it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
  2. Before draining the pasta, reserve about 2 cups of the starchy pasta cooking liquid. This water will be used to create the creamy sauce, so don’t forget this step! Drain the pasta and return it to the warm pot.
  3. In the same pot with the pasta, add 1¼ cups of plain whole-milk Greek yogurt. Toss the pasta with tongs to thoroughly coat it in the yogurt. At this stage, it might look thick, but don’t worry. Gradually add about ½ cup of the reserved pasta water, tossing as you go. You want to add just enough water to form a smooth, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta, resembling a light Alfredo sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, continue adding splashes of pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  4. Once the sauce has come together, taste the pasta. If needed, add a pinch of kosher salt to enhance the flavors. Keep in mind that the chili crisp will add some saltiness, so be cautious not to overdo it.
  5. Divide the pasta among shallow bowls or plates, and top each portion with as much chili crisp as your heart desires. If the chili crisp looks a little dry, you can thin it out with a bit of grapeseed or any neutral oil before spooning it over the pasta. The key is to let the chili oil coat the pasta for an extra layer of heat and flavor.

The beauty of this Creamy Chili Crisp Pasta lies in its simplicity. It’s an effortless dish that feels far more luxurious than the time and ingredients required. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with roommates, this pasta is a surefire hit. The combination of Greek yogurt and chili crisp creates an irresistible balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors, while the starchy pasta water ensures the sauce clings to every noodle. Plus, it’s highly customizable—whether you like more or less heat, or prefer a different type of pasta, this dish adapts to your needs.

With minimal prep, easy cleanup, and an unforgettable flavor profile, this pasta dish is bound to become a favorite. And don’t be surprised if you find yourself reaching for that family-size jar of chili crisp sooner rather than later!

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HERO Program Secures $249 Million for Energy Projects in Louisiana

In a significant move to bolster Louisiana’s energy infrastructure, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) granted $249 million to the state for various energy-related projects, as per this article from Houma Today. This funding, provided through the Federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, aimed to address the state’s vulnerabilities to hurricanes and other severe weather conditions. Known for its frequent storms, Louisiana has long sought ways to make its energy grid more resilient, and this federal support came as a crucial step in ensuring reliable power access, especially during emergencies.

The funds were specifically earmarked for Louisiana’s Hubs for Energy Resilient Operations (HERO) program, a comprehensive initiative designed to strengthen the state’s power grid. The HERO program, which aligned with national goals for energy resilience, focused on creating a robust and dependable energy system capable of withstanding the frequent hurricanes that impact the Gulf Coast. These hubs played a key role during disasters, often serving as critical locations for shelter and recovery efforts when other parts of the power grid failed.

The HERO program took an innovative approach by investing in the transmission, distribution, and storage of energy, with a strong emphasis on regional energy resilience. With total investments amounting to $5 billion across various projects, the program sought to reimagine how energy could be managed and distributed during crises. The overarching goal was to ensure that essential services remained operational and that residents had access to reliable power even when the broader grid was compromised.

Several pilot projects received funding as part of the HERO initiative, signaling a targeted effort to fortify energy resilience in key areas. For instance, New Orleans’ Sewage and Water Board West Power Complex was allocated $20.5 million for critical upgrades, reflecting the city’s unique vulnerabilities due to its low elevation and reliance on pumping systems to prevent flooding. In New Iberia, $7 million was designated for a Bio Safety Facility, further diversifying the state’s energy resilience capabilities by investing in facilities that could operate independently during crises. Meanwhile, the Terrebonne Parish Civic Center in Houma secured $3.6 million to enhance its ability to serve as an emergency hub.

Other notable projects included the installation of deployable battery hubs, which provided portable energy solutions in areas where power could be knocked out for extended periods. Kenner received $2 million for one such hub, while Bossier City was awarded $1.69 million. These hubs were particularly valuable as they offered flexible, quick-deploy energy solutions that could be mobilized to areas in need following a storm. Dillard University in New Orleans also received $1.2 million to bolster its energy resilience, ensuring that the campus could remain operational in the event of widespread power outages.

In addition to these individual projects, the HERO program funded energy resilience measures for several National Guard facilities across the state. A combined total of $2.6 million was distributed to the National Guard Gillis W. Long Center in Carville, the Armed Forces Reserve Center in Baton Rouge, the Aviation Support Facility in Hammond, and Chennault Airport in Lake Charles. These facilities played crucial roles in emergency response and disaster recovery, and the funding ensured they could remain operational even under the most challenging conditions.

Among the partners involved were the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and Xavier University, both of which contributed to the broader effort to research and implement energy resilience strategies. The involvement of these institutions highlighted the critical role of academic research in solving real-world problems, especially in a state where hurricanes and other natural disasters posed ongoing threats.

The HERO program represented a forward-thinking approach to energy resilience, one that would have long-term benefits for the state. By investing in infrastructure that could withstand extreme weather, Louisiana aimed to protect its residents, reduce the economic impacts of power outages, and strengthen its ability to recover from future disasters.

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Louisiana Takes Steps to Reduce Student Standardized Testing Time

In a significant move to alleviate some of the pressure associated with standardized testing, Louisiana’s State Superintendent of Education, Dr. Cade Brumley, announced a major reduction in the amount of time students spend on state assessments. The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) is enacting these changes, which will immediately cut testing time by 20% for students taking the LEAP assessments in grades 3 through 8. According to this news release from LDOE, this adjustment will impact both English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics exams, simplifying the writing portion and eliminating redundant questions. These alterations, which are the first steps in a broader plan to reduce testing time in the future, were made in consultation with testing experts to ensure that the assessments remain effective and reliable.

Dr. Brumley emphasized the careful approach taken to implement these changes. He acknowledged that feedback from parents, teachers, and students had been a driving force behind the decision, stating that reducing testing time has been a constant request. He reassured the public that the modifications would still allow for accurate measurement of student progress, providing valuable insight without unnecessary time spent on redundant tasks.

Starting in April 2025, students in grades 3 through 8 will see shorter testing periods for their annual LEAP assessments. Though the tests will still cover the full scope of Louisiana’s Student Standards for both ELA and math, specific redundancies that had been unnecessarily time-consuming are being removed. The goal is to maintain the same rigor in evaluating student learning, but with more efficient assessments that do not require students to complete tasks that do not add significant value to the overall evaluation.

For ELA, students can expect to spend 40 to 75 minutes less on their exams, depending on their grade level. This reduction is largely due to the removal of one writing prompt from the exam. Previously, each student had been required to complete two writing tasks, but this will be streamlined to just one. In math, students will see a reduction in testing time of about 30 to 40 minutes per exam. This will be achieved by cutting four machine-scored tasks and two constructed-response tasks from the test, which testing experts determined were not necessary for accurately measuring proficiency.

Public school students across the United States are required to take standardized tests to assess whether they have mastered the necessary grade-level skills. State tests play a crucial role in helping educators measure a student’s learning progress. These assessments, combined with grades and other types of evaluations, provide a comprehensive view of where a student excels and where they may need additional support.

In Louisiana, the LEAP (Louisiana Educational Assessment Program) tests have been a key component of the state’s accountability system for many years. While students and parents often express frustration over the amount of time dedicated to testing, the results of these assessments are critical for ensuring students receive the resources they need to succeed academically.

Standardized tests are a long-standing feature of American education, having first been introduced in the early 1900s. Originally used to assess college students and military recruits, standardized testing quickly became a tool used to evaluate students at the elementary and secondary levels. Today, tests like the LEAP exams have become essential in tracking student progress and guiding educational strategies.

The recent changes to Louisiana’s LEAP assessments signify a positive step towards reducing unnecessary testing time, making the process more efficient while still maintaining the integrity of the assessments. By addressing concerns from teachers, students, and parents, and by streamlining the tests themselves, Louisiana is leading the way in ensuring that standardized testing remains a valuable tool for measuring student learning, without overburdening students.

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