2015 Sweet Rewards Recipe Contest Winners

November 2, 2015

There was a time in Louisiana when cotton was king. But after a few bad crops in the 1930s, a number of Bayou State farmers turned to sweet potatoes, and they stuck with them. As of 2013, Louisiana was the fourth largest sweet potato-producing state with 8,000 acres and 2.5 billion pounds of product. We love our yummy yams and are always looking for new ways with them.

Since 2005, Louisiana Cookin’ and the Louisiana Sweet Potato Commission have hosted the Sweet Rewards Recipe Contest to highlight the many ways home cooks prepare this delicious root vegetable. Over the years, we’ve seen thousands of entries from around the United States, ranging from simple homespun favorites to stunning chef-inspired creations.

The 2015 Sweet Rewards Recipe Contest slate of winners includes folks from the Northeast, Southwest, Midwest, and, as you might expect, a couple from the Bayou State. The versatile flavor and texture of the sweet potatoes were highlighted with interesting techniques and pairings.

At the judging ceremony, hosted by the Louisiana Culinary Institute in Baton Rouge, the judges were particularly impressed by the resourcefulness of the cooks and the skill of the culinary school students preparing the dishes. A yam good time was had by all, and we’re sure this year’s winning recipes will have a spot on your family table for years to come.