Local Cooking School Holds Anniversary Extravaganza
Posted: Mar 22nd, 08Portland, OR. (March 18, 2008) Roll out the red carpet for a host of celebrity chefs that will be appearing during the 10th anniversary celebration at In Good Taste during the month of April.
The month is packed with exciting (and delicious) events. But the excitement doesn’t have to wait until April; March culminates with a magical escape to India with “660 curries” with chef- instructor Raghavan Iyer. Iyer’s extraordinary book, “660 Curries: The Gateway to Indian Cooking”, was published recently. He shares some of the tantalizing recipes and helpful information in the March 31st class.
From there, the pace picks up with a solid week of cooking classes. Beginning with quick appetizers with Hugh Carpenter, to cassoulet with Kate Hill, to light bites with Pam Anderson, there is something for everyone to nibble on.
Napa Chef Hugh Carpenter returns to In Good Taste with a buffet of easy recipes for spring entertaining. Carpenter knows the tools and tricks for creating interesting, tasty and simple foods for all occasions. On Tuesday, April 1st, Hugh will teach “Quick Appetizers for Easy Entertaining.” Choose from Apricot Thrones with Blue Cheese and Pecans, Wild Mushroom Crostini with Asiago, or Stir Fried Diced Shrimp and Pine Nuts in Endive Cups.
Hugh will be teaching a second class Wednesday, April 2nd featuring entrees for fast and fabulous entertaining. The entrée recipes are from Hugh’s new book, “Gather Your Friends- Easy Recipes for Informal Dinners.” All of the recipes can be prepared in advance, with little last minute attention, yet are still stunning.
Before delving into two days of classes taught by cooking school owner, instructor and Chef Kate Hill, stop for a “Blind Tasting” with Lisa Shara Hall on April 3 at 7:00 PM. Learn how to distinguish grape varietals, identify components and unlock the mystery behind wine tasting.
After the “Blind Tasting”, it’s time for an escape to the French countryside with Kate Hill. Her cooking school, in the countryside of Gascony, offers classes in traditional French food. Travel to France without leaving the ground with “French Charcuterie 101″ on Friday, April 4th at 6:30 PM. Learn the basics of sausage making, terrines and pates ~ currently all hot items in Portland’s entertaining scene. You’ll learn how to make a variety of charcuterie to serve at your future dinner parties. After such a wonderful visit to the French countryside on Friday, you’ll be craving a longer stay. Join Kate on Saturday, April 5th at 6:30 PM for “Camp Cassoulet.” Learn about this famous dish, make it from scratch and enjoy it alongside a glass of wine for a traditional French evening.
The full and flavorful weekend continues with a class that considers man’s best friend in “Cooking for Canines,” and a look at traditional sushi with chef Maya Klein. The whirlwind of visiting chefs continues on Monday, April 7th when celebrated author Pam Anderson teaches a class on the “Perfect Recipe for Eating Great and Losing Weight.” Pam will share her tips for foolproof, flavorful and fun meals that will help you make life changes.
The 10th anniversary celebration continues throughout the month with more visiting chefs, local chefs, culinary demonstrations, product tastings, and special events.
Highlights include a chocolate demonstration, “Uncorking Oregon,” and the In Good Taste Cooking School Open House.
“Uncorking Oregon” is a wine education intensive held Saturday, April 12th. This two hour class will reveal the very latest in Oregon wine news. 20 year industry veteran Gretchen Wilcox will enlighten wine lovers on the unique climate, topography and grapes in Oregon. Get an inside look on Oregon’s flourishing wine scene.
The open house will be held Saturday, April 26th from 10 AM- 5PM. Favorite local chefs and In Good Taste Instructors will be doing culinary demonstrations and product tastings. This is the perfect opportunity to learn more about classes at In Good Taste. More details and up-to-date information is available on the school website at www.ingoodtastestore.com .
