CULINARY BASICS SERIES
Fees: Students: $40 | ARC Members: $50 | Community: $60
Beginner 1: Knife Skills and Fresh Food Preparation
Students will learn to use various knives effectively and safely to prepare fresh, farm-to-table dishes. They will master essential cuts such as chopping, dicing, and chiffonade, while preparing a Veggie Platter and Fresh Peach and Mango Salsa. Emphasis will be placed on safety, proper knife handling, and maintaining cleanliness. Class Location: Demonstration Kitchen at the Anteater Recreation Center
Beginner 2: Essential Cooking Techniques
Students will gain confidence in fundamental cooking methods including sautéing, boiling, simmering, and steaming. They will prepare a complete meal featuring Sautéed Chicken with Pan Sauce, Seasonal Vegetables with Herb Butter, and Creamy Parmesan Polenta. The focus will be on mastering techniques, ensuring food safety, and achieving balanced flavors and textures. Class Location: Demonstration Kitchen at the Anteater Recreation Center
Beginner 3: Creative Baking Methods
Students will explore the art of baking with a focus on cookies, scones, and fruit galettes. They will learn key techniques such as creaming, folding, and shaping dough to create Lemon Lavender Cookies, Savory Cheese and Herb Scones, and a Simple Fruit Galette. Safety will be emphasized in handling baking equipment, measuring ingredients, and monitoring baking times. Class Location: Demonstration Kitchen at the Anteater Recreation Center
Intermediate: Elevated Exploration
Students will hone their skills in pan-searing, braising, and making hand-cut pasta. They will master the art of Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon-Dill Beurre Blanc, learn to create rich Braised Short Ribs with Hand-Cut Pappardelle, and enhance their understanding of combining flavors and textures to produce a refined meal. Emphasis will be placed on precise technique, safety, and achieving restaurant-quality results. Class Location: Demonstration Kitchen at the Anteater Recreation Center
Advanced: Comprehensive Application
Students will utilize their expertise in knife skills, cooking techniques, and baking to prepare a full three course menu for a guest. The class will feature a Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad, Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb with Truffle Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Asparagus, and Pistachio and Cardamom Panna Cotta with Saffron Pears. This course emphasizes advanced cooking methods, intricate plating, and creative flavor combinations, offering students a chance to showcase their culinary artistry through a refined and cohesive dining experience.
CULINARY POP-CULTURE SERIES
Fees: Students: $30 | ARC Members: $40 | Community: $50
Middle Earth Morsels: Lord of the Rings
Middle Earth Morsels from Lord of the Rings: Embark on a culinary adventure with Middle-Earth Morsels. In this class, you’ll create Miniature Hobbit Pot Pies and bake Lembas-Inspired Honey Cakes, enjoying a taste of the beloved foods from The Lordof the Rings. Dive into the comforting and enchanting flavors of Middle-Earth, with hearty savory pies and sweet, spiced cakes that bring Tolkien’s world to your kitchen. Class Location: Demonstration Kitchen at the Anteater Recreation Center
Upside Down Eats Stranger Things
Step into the mysterious world of Stranger Things with this engaging class where you'll create dishes inspired by the show. Whip up Eggo Waffle Sandwiches, a nod to Eleven’s favorite treat, and craft a fun Demogorgon Dip that brings a touch of the Upside Down to your table. Join us for a hands-on experience filled with suspense, flavor, and all things Hawkins! Class Location: Demonstration Kitchen at the Anteater Recreation Center
Beef and Beyond from The Bear
Enter the fast-paced world of The Bear with this culinary class inspired by the hit show. Channel your inner chef as you learn to make a classic Italian Beef Sandwich, complete with perfectly seasoned roast beef, giardiniera, and crusty bread. Pair it with a refreshing Lemon Ice, a nod to the Chicago culinary scene. This hands-on experience will immerse you in the flavors and intensity of a bustling kitchen, bringing a taste of The Bear to your plate. Join us for a culinary adventure that’s as satisfying and intense as the show itself! Class Location: Demonstration Kitchen at the Anteater Recreation Center
Wizard's Treats Harry Potter
Dive into the magical world of Harry Potter as you craft a creamy Butterbeer-inspired drink and bake golden Pumpkin Pasties. This fun and interactive class offers a taste of the wizarding world, perfect for fans and foodies alike. Join us for a spellbinding culinary experience where you’ll create these iconic treats and enjoy the enchanting flavors of Hogwarts. Class Location: Demonstration Kitchen at the Anteater Recreation Center
Plan Your Experience Today!
Culinary Group Experiences:
Join our Culinary Team!
We're seeking UCI students to assist with our new culinary classes and events. Tasks include setting up cooking stations, supporting participants, maintaining food safety, and helping with dishwashing and cleanup. Ideal candidates have a passion for cooking, strong organizational skills, and some kitchen experience.
Email your resume to daniel.b@uci.edu if interested!