Why Everyone Needs to Experience the Magic at Least Once THE CULTURAL ESSENCE OF MARDI GRAS
The Festivities of Carnival Season Carnival commemorates the season before Lent, the 40-day period of abstinence leading up to Easter. In a tradition that dates back to the late 1800s in the US, those participating in the many Carnival parades, especially in the French Quarter, throw beads out into the crowds of revelers. Many masked parade participants, known as “krewes,” create spectacular floats and elaborate costumes to mimic the Venetian Carnival of ages past. The parades are held throughout the week before and on Fat Tuesday. The Traditions of Years Past During Mardi Gras, Fat Tuesday lives up to its name. The local cuisine is among the best in the world. Whether you are looking for traditional fare like gumbo and crawfish etouffee or local favorites like lobster pizza and king cakes, restaurants serve these options and more day and night. If you want to check out the cocktail scene, ask about the Hurricane . Pat O’Brian’s bar served this local libation during World War II (when whiskey was hard to find) and it’s still popular today!
Much like Coachella or the NFL draft, Mardi Gras is one of the year’s most anticipated events. The vibrantly colored beads and masks represent more than just a celebration — they’re a cultural phenomenon that captures the essence and history of New Orleans. If you want to celebrate spring with unparalleled revelry, extravagance, and tradition, pack your bags for Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana. It’s on Tuesday, March 4, this year, the day before Ash Wednesday on the Christian calendar. Come and find out why everyone should experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans at least once in their lives. Historical Foundations Mardi Gras is the French term for Fat Tuesday, with celebrations dating back to the 1700s in Renaissance Europe. The traditions of this celebrated holiday are deeply rooted in Italy and France but have evolved into a unique melting pot of Creole, African, and European influences. More than 50 countries around the world now celebrate the festival, including the largest Carnival celebration in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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Train Your Brain!
Roast Pork With Sweet Potatoes
INGREDIENTS
Inspired by FoodNetwork.com
• 3 tbsp brown sugar • 1 tsp dried sage • 2 cloves garlic, minced • Salt and black pepper • 1 1/2 lbs pork tenderloin • 1 1/2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 red onion, sliced • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided • Pinch of cayenne pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth • 2 tsp Dijon mustard • 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 400 F. 2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, sage, garlic, salt, and black pepper, then rub mixture on pork. 3. On a baking sheet, toss sweet potatoes and red onion with 1 tbsp olive oil, cayenne, and salt and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes then set aside. 4. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add remaining olive oil. When hot, add pork and sear for 5 minutes. Transfer to baking sheet with vegetables and bake for 11–13 minutes, or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145 F. 5. Add broth to skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in Dijon, chives, and black pepper. Slice pork, drizzle with the pan sauce, and serve with sweet potatoes.
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