Author: Emily Gautreaux

Grilled Okra and Tomatoes with Cellar Salt – A Cajun Culinary Delight

One of the most treasured vegetables in cajun culinary tradition is okra, and along with this delicious recipe from Louisiana Cookin, you can embark on a flavor-packed journey as we explore the essence of Southern charm through a delightful dish: Cast-Iron Grilled Okra and Tomatoes with Flake Sea Salt. This vibrant recipe celebrates the taste of the Gulf coast, infusing tender okra and juicy tomatoes with the rich flavors of garlic, cracked black peppercorns, and the unique Cellar Salt Co. Flake Sea Salt. So, let’s fire up the grill, savor the magic of the Gulf, and indulge in the warmth of Louisiana’s culinary heritage.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic and olive oil to create a fragrant and flavorful infusion. Set a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet, arranging tomato slices in a single layer to allow them to drain, preserving any precious juices. Brush the tomato slices and the cut sides of okra with the garlic-infused oil, infusing them with the richness of the Gulf.
  2. To cook the okra to perfection, we’ll heat a large cast-iron grill pan over high heat. Once hot, season the halved okra pods with cracked black peppercorns and place them cut side down on the grill. Let them sizzle and caramelize for 2 to 3 minutes before turning them over for another minute of grilling. Set the beautifully grilled okra aside to maintain their tenderness.
  3. Reducing the heat to medium-high, it’s now time to grill the tomato slices. Season them with cracked black peppercorns and cook them for about 2 minutes on each side, allowing grill marks to form without letting them become too soft. These succulent grilled tomatoes will bring a burst of flavor reminiscent of the Gulf’s abundance.
  4. To serve this Gulf-inspired dish, arrange the grilled tomatoes and okra on a welcoming platter. Top them with the reserved tomato juices, ensuring not a drop of the Gulf’s essence goes to waste. Now comes the magic moment, where we sprinkle Cellar Salt over the dish, allowing its delicate flakey crystals to enhance each bite. For a finer texture, crumble the salt between your fingers and let it fall like fairy dust over the vegetables.

Side Dish Suggestions:

To complete the Gulf coast experience, consider serving this dish with some classic Southern side dishes:

  • Cajun Cornbread: A deliciously moist and slightly spicy cornbread to complement the grilled goodness.
  • Creole Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw with a Creole twist, adding freshness and crunch to the meal.
  • Creole Collard Greens: Elevate a humble green into a delectable side with our Creole Collard Greens. Slow-cooked with onions, garlic, and smoky ham hock, these tender greens are infused with a burst of Creole flavors.
  • Louisiana Corn Maque Choux: Celebrate the sweetness of Southern corn with this delightful dish, inspired by Cajun and Creole traditions, combines fresh corn kernels with bell peppers, onions, and a touch of cream for richness.

The Gulf coast has always been a source of inspiration for chefs and food enthusiasts alike, and Cellar Salt has succeeded in encapsulating its essence in a beautifully flaked crystal. Cast-Iron Grilled Okra and Tomatoes, seasoned with this unique salt, bring out the best of Gulf flavors, reminding us of cherished childhood memories and the wonders of the sea. Gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and embark on a culinary journey to savor the Gulf’s extraordinary taste.

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From History to Art: The Best Experiences in Raleigh, NC

Raleigh, North Carolina, nestled in the heart of the Research Triangle, offers a unique blend of city life and Southern charm. With its tall buildings, museums, green spaces, and diverse culinary scene, Raleigh has something for everyone. Locals describe it as a close-knit community with the culture and sophistication of a bigger city, according to this travel blog post from Southern Living. If you’re considering a trip to the area, here are the best things to do in Raleigh.

To truly appreciate the city, start by exploring it on foot. One of the best views can be found while walking over Boylan Bridge. Don’t forget to stop for a quick photo opportunity. For a glimpse into Raleigh’s history, head to the Historic Oakwood neighborhood, where you can admire the 19th-century Victorian-era homes. Download the free walking tour brochure to make the most of your experience. For nature enthusiasts, the Neuse River Greenway Trail offers 27.5 miles of paved pathways for walking, running, and biking. Along the trail, you’ll encounter beautiful wetlands, suspension bridges, and agricultural fields. Historical and interpretive signs provide interesting information about the area.

To balance out the Southern cuisine, make a stop at the State Farmers Market. Open almost every day of the year, this market features 30,000 square feet of North Carolina produce stands, specialty shops, and restaurants. It’s a great place to pick up fresh and local produce. Music lovers will be delighted by Raleigh’s vibrant music scene. The city boasts more than 80 music venues and hosts several festivals throughout the year. The IBMA World of Bluegrass and Hopscotch Music Festival in September, as well as the Dreamville Festival in April, are highlights on the calendar.

Outdoor enthusiasts shouldn’t miss William B. Umstead State Park, located just a short distance from downtown Raleigh. The park offers hiking trails, campgrounds, and even horseback riding. Fishing and boating on Big Lake are popular activities, and you can rent canoes and rowboats for a leisurely day on the water. For a memorable evening, catch a show at the Red Hat Amphitheater. This outdoor venue allows you to enjoy live music while taking in one of Raleigh’s stunning sunsets. The Shimmer Wall, located nearby, adds to the magical atmosphere. The amphitheater’s lineup includes a variety of artists throughout the year.

Immerse yourself in history at the Historic Yates Mill County Park. Explore the fully restored 18th-century water-powered mill and take a guided tour to learn more about its significance. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Raleigh’s past.Art enthusiasts will appreciate the North Carolina Museum of Art, which features both indoor exhibitions spanning thousands of years and the beautiful Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park. The museum and park are free to the public, offering a perfect opportunity for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

For contemporary art, visit the Contemporary Art Museum (CAM) Raleigh. The museum showcases works from emerging and established artists. Don’t miss the North Carolina Artists Exhibition, where you can see the best of the state’s emerging talent. To delve into Raleigh’s history, tour the Pope House Museum. This museum showcases over 3,000 artifacts from the Pope family, providing insights into one of Raleigh’s most intriguing families. Admission is free, but tours are on a first-come, first-served basis. For those who enjoy shopping, both the Raleigh Market and City Market offer unique experiences. The Raleigh Market, located at the historic NC State Fairgrounds, features over 500 vendors selling a variety of items. City Market, with its cobblestoned streets, is home to boutiques, shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and diverse culinary offerings, Raleigh is a destination that promises a memorable experience. Whether you’re exploring the city’s landmarks, engaging in outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in its cultural attractions, Raleigh has something to captivate every traveler.

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Annual LDOE Gala Recognizes Outstanding Teachers and Leaders

In a grand celebration of educational excellence, the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) joined hands with Dream Teachers to host the 17th Annual Cecil J. Picard Educator Excellence Awards Gala to honor outstanding teachers and leaders across the state, according to this news release from LDOE.

This prestigious event took place at the iconic World War II Museum in New Orleans, where outstanding teachers and leaders from across the state were recognized for their exceptional contributions to the field of education. The night was marked by the announcement of several significant awards, including the Louisiana Teacher and Principal of the Year, Louisiana Early Childhood Teacher and Leader of the Year, and Louisiana New Teacher of the Year.

The most coveted award, the Louisiana Teacher of the Year, went to Kylie Altier, a first-grade teacher at Buchanan Elementary in East Baton Rouge Parish Schools. Altier’s accomplishments extend beyond the classroom as she secured over $13,000 in grants to enrich the educational experiences of her students and the school community. Her innovative projects, including an agriculture-focused garden, a mobile kitchen for hands-on cooking experiences, and a curriculum incorporating virtual reality headsets, have all contributed to a dynamic and immersive learning environment.

The gala also recognized exceptional educators in various categories, with division-level Teachers of the Year being named in Elementary, Middle, and High School divisions. Sandra Saye-Foucqueteau from Zachary Community School District, Cory Joy Craig from Bossier Parish Schools, and Dennis “DJ” Pevey from Tangipahoa Parish School Systemwere the respective division-level awardees.

State Superintendent of Education, Dr. Cade Brumley, took the stage to applaud the honorees, stating, “tonight we celebrate the remarkable dedication and unwavering commitment of Louisiana’s finest teachers and leaders. Their resilience, passion, and tireless efforts have transformed lives and paved the way for our Louisiana comeback.”

Tia Mechelle Trahan, the principal of Lafayette Middle in the Lafayette Parish School System, was bestowed with the title of Louisiana Principal of the Year. Trahan’s accomplishments as a leader include being a National Board Certified Teacher and previously winning Lafayette Parish School System Teacher of the Year in 2007. She also completed the National Institute for School Leaders program, showcasing her dedication to continuous improvement and professional growth.

In addition to the overall Principal of the Year, the event celebrated division-level Principal of the Year honorees in the Elementary, Middle, and High School categories. Dr. Monya Thomas-Criddle from Jefferson Parish Schools, Barry Carter from DeSoto Parish Schools, and Marvin Evans from Ascension Public Schools received the well-deserved recognition.

The gala also shone a spotlight on early childhood outstanding teachers and educators, acknowledging their vital contributions to a child’s foundational learning years. Phedra Jackson from Lafourche Head Start was named the Louisiana Early Childhood Teacher of the Year for her decade-long commitment to serving children and families in Louisiana. Arielle Hughes, who leads Carousel Preschool in Jefferson Parish, was celebrated as the Louisiana Early Childhood Leader of the Year for her decade of combined experience in leading and teaching in Early Learning centers.

Furthermore, the gala honored Phoenix Morel LeBlanc, a teacher at Albany Middle in the Livingston Parish Public School System, as the Louisiana New Teacher of the Year. This award recognizes excellence during the first year in the classroom, and the program has grown in significance over the past two years.

The Cecil J. Picard Educator Excellence Awards Gala not only celebrates individual achievements but also acknowledges the collective efforts of educators across the state. Finalists for the New Teacher of the Year, Early Childhood Teacher and Leader categories, as well as recipients of the Milken Educator Award and Louisiana’s Public Interest Fellowship, were also applauded for their remarkable contributions to education.

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Seasonally Adjusted Employment at Record High For The State

In a positive sign for Louisiana’s economy, the latest data released by the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals that the state’s seasonally adjusted employment numbers have reached a record high for the third consecutive month. According to this article from The Daily Advertiser, these statistics provide valuable insights into the fluctuations of the labor market and help us understand the underlying trends that shape employment and unemployment figures.

The concept of seasonal adjustment is crucial to comprehend the true dynamics of employment. Seasonal adjustmentinvolves removing the predictable influences of seasonal patterns, such as weather changes, harvests, major holidays, and school schedules, to provide a clearer understanding of how employment and unemployment change on a month-to-month basis. By reducing the impact of these fluctuations, analysts can identify the actual trends and patterns in the labor market.

For the month of May 2023, Louisiana’s seasonally-adjusted employment reached a new high of 2,039,425 individuals, representing a gain of 2,510 individuals from the revised April estimate. Simultaneously, the number of seasonally-adjusted unemployed individuals stood at 76,667, marking the second-lowest figure for May in the history of the series.

Among the major industries that experienced significant gains in seasonally-adjusted jobs over the month were Private Education and Health Services, which added 1,800 jobs from April 2023, and the Construction sector, which gained 1,700 jobs during the same period. Additionally, the Trade, Transportation, and Utilities sector, the Financial Activities sector, and the Professional and Business Services sector each added 500 jobs compared to April 2023.

When considering the year-over-year growth in seasonally-adjusted employment, Private Education and Health Services emerged as the top gainer with 17,100 jobs added from May 2022. The Construction sector followed closely with an increase of 7,700 jobs, while the Leisure and Hospitality industry experienced growth of 6,900 jobs over the same period.

Analyzing the Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) within Louisiana, it was found that several regions exhibited notable changes in seasonally-adjusted employment.

  • Baton Rouge demonstrated significant progress by adding 3,400 jobs from April 2023 and achieving a remarkable increase of 18,700 jobs from May 2022.
  • Although Hammond experienced a minor decline of 100 jobs from April 2023, it managed to gain 1,100 jobs from May 2022.
  • Houma also faced a slight decrease of 100 jobs from April 2023 but made up for it by gaining 500 jobs from May 2022.
  • New Orleans registered an addition of 1,100 jobs from April 2023 and a remarkable growth of 15,600 jobs from May 2022. Shreveport added 300 jobs from April 2023 and gained 3,000 jobs from May 2022.

These positive employment trends align with the Louisiana workforce employment forecast, which predicts a 3.5% increase in job growth, adding 3,597 jobs by 2023. Moreover, the seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate for May 2023 stands at 3.6%, tying it for the second-lowest rate in the history of the series.

When examining Louisiana’s seasonally-adjusted total nonfarm employment, which encompasses all workers except those in farming, private households, proprietors, non-profit employees, and active military, the data for May 2023 indicates a total of 1,962,900 jobs—an increase of 4,600 jobs from April 2023. Furthermore, Louisiana’s seasonally-adjusted private sector employment for May 2023 reached 1,645,800 jobs, reflecting an increase of 4,400 jobs compared to the revised April 2023 estimate of 1,641,400 jobs. This growth is particularly impressive when compared to May 2022, as the series has added jobs consecutively for 26 months.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the state’s employment situation, it is important to analyze Metropolitan Statistical Area and parish unemployment rates. These rates will be released on June 23, providing additional insights into specific regions and their respective employment conditions. In summary, Louisiana’s seasonally-adjusted employment data for May 2023 showcases a record high, reflecting positive trends and growth across various sectors and regions. These statistics demonstrate the resilience and strength of the state’s economy, providing opportunities for job seekers and boosting the overall well-being of Louisiana residents.

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A Glazed Duck Recipe Fit for Any Cajun

Indulge in the flavors of Cajun cuisine with this delectable recipe for Cane Syrup-Glazed Duck Breast. Bursting with a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy notes, this recipe from Louisiana Cookin is perfect for a refreshing spring dinner. The delicious duck breasts, glazed with rich cane syrup, will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Paired with fragrant long-grain rice, sautéed mustard greens, and a sprinkle of sliced green onion, this recipe is a true culinary delight.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Begin by patting the duck breasts dry using paper towels. With a sharp knife, create a crosshatch pattern on the skin without cutting into the meat. Sprinkle the breasts with kosher salt.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine 1 tablespoon of cane syrup, olive oil, cane vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, lime zest, and ground black pepper. Whisk until the ingredients are well combined.
  3. Place the duck breasts, skin side up, in the marinade dish, ensuring that the skin is not submerged. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together. If your air fryer manual recommends preheating, preheat the fryer to 300°F. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  4. Remove the duck breasts from the marinade and gently pat them dry with paper towels. Arrange them skin side down in the prepared basket. Set the fryer temperature to 300°F and cook until the fat starts to render, approximately 10 minutes.
  5. While the duck is cooking, whisk together the lime juice, remaining 2 tablespoons of cane syrup, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning in a small bowl.
  6. Carefully turn the duck pieces and brush them with the cane syrup mixture. Increase the fryer temperature to 400°F and continue cooking until the duck skin becomes crispy and beautifully browned, around 10 minutes. Allow the duck breasts to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  7. Serve the succulent Cane Syrup-Glazed Duck Breast alongside fluffy long-grain rice, sautéed mustard greens, and a garnish of sliced green onion. Drizzle the remaining cane syrup brushing mixture over the duck for an extra burst of flavor.

Side Dishes:

Fluffy long-grain rice: Prepare a pot of fragrant long-grain rice to accompany the duck. Its neutral flavor complements the rich glaze of the duck breasts perfectly.

Sautéed Mustard Greens: Heat some olive oil in a skillet and add mustard greens. Sauté until wilted and tender, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. These greens provide a pleasant bitterness that balances the sweetness of the duck.

Spicy Cornbread: Bake a batch of spicy cornbread to add a touch of Southern comfort to your meal. The crumbly texture and spicy kick will harmonize beautifully with the flavors of the duck.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Cut sweet potatoes into wedges, toss them with olive oil, salt, and Cajun seasoning, and roast until caramelized. The natural sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory duck and adds a delightful contrast of textures.

With its irresistible blend of sweet and spicy flavors, this Cane Syrup-Glazed Duck Breast recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. The tender meat, crispy skin, and luscious glaze create a symphony of tastes that celebrate the essence of Cajun cuisine. Serve it alongside fluffy long-grain rice, sautéed mustard greens, and a sprinkle of sliced green onion for a complete dining experience. Elevate your cooking skills and treat your loved ones to this Cajun delight. Enjoy the rich flavors and savor every bite!

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From Lab to Field: LSU’s Ambitious Project to Create Climate-Resilient Rice Variety

LSU Mechanical Engineering Professor Manas Gartia, and the LSU AgCenter have recently been awarded a significant $10 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture sector. According to this news release from Louisiana State University’s College of Engineering, this grant will be used to fund their collaborative effort in designing a new variety of rice that can thrive in drought conditions. The need for such a development arises from the fact that rice is a crucial staple food for more than half of the global population, and as rice production continues to increase, so does the demand for water.

Rice cultivation, particularly the conventional season-long flood irrigation method, contributes to several environmental issues, including the depletion of underground water tables, increased salinity in groundwater, air and water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Professor Gartia emphasized that despite a 39% increase in land-use efficiency and reductions in water and energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and soil losses in U.S. rice production over the past four decades, there is still a need for more resource-efficient practices.

To address these concerns, the research team led by Professor Prasanta Subudhi from LSU’s AgCenter School of Plant, Environmental, and Soil Sciences will focus on two main hypotheses. The first hypothesis suggests that developing new rice varieties with better adaptation to climate variations, coupled with innovative crop management practices, can enhance the sustainability and profitability of rice production systems. The second hypothesis states that implementing educational and outreach extension programs will facilitate the adoption of a climate-resilient rice management system by current and future generations of rice growers in the Southern U.S.

Professor Gartia’s role in the project involves studying the phenotype and molecular changes in rice under various stresses, such as salt, drought, water, and heat. By identifying the genes responsible for the rice plant’s survival under drought conditions, the team aims to create a variety of rice with those specific traits. This will enable rice cultivation even in arid regions, reducing the reliance on water resources.

Gartia plans to utilize innovative metabolomic (NMR, LC-MS) and imaging (Raman microscopy) technologies to examine the leaf metabolic profiling in stress-tolerant plants. His objective is to establish a correlation between metabolite levels and stress tolerance in different rice genotypes under various stress conditions. By observing dynamic fluctuations in metabolite levels in real-time using Raman mapping, Gartia hopes to gain valuable insights into the stress response of rice plants.

Additionally, the team will employ techniques such as mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI) and mass spectrometry coupled with liquid chromatography (LC-MS) to analyze lipidomic profile changes in the leaves due to environmental stressors. These comprehensive methods will aid in characterizing the metabolomic profiles of rice lines exposed to drought and salinity stresses.

The outcome of this project will have significant implications for the rice industry, which is one of the largest sectors in both the United States and Louisiana. In 2022 alone, the U.S. produced over 150 million pounds of rice, solidifying its position as the world’s fifth-largest rice exporter. Louisiana, with its favorable warm climate, abundant water, and water-retaining clay soils, stands as the nation’s third-largest rice-producing state, trailing behind Arkansas and California.

This collaborative effort between LSU Mechanical Engineering Professor Manas Gartia and the LSU AgCenter has the potential to revolutionize rice production by creating a drought-resistant rice variety. By reducing the reliance on water resources and promoting more sustainable practices, this research aims to ensure a stable supply of rice for the ever-growing global population. In conclusion, the $10 million grant received by Professor Gartia and the LSU AgCenter will facilitate groundbreaking research in designing a new variety of rice that can withstand drought conditions. By combining innovative technologies and focusing on sustainability, this project has the potential to transform the rice industry, ensuring its resilience in the face of climate variability and environmental challenges.

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