Lately, I’ve been writing a lot about overseas cooking classes, but I know we don’t all have the time or money to jet off to an exotic location. But that doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in some gourmet cooking right in the US. Look up some local classes in your city or if you can spare a few days, try the very best classes at the CIA. And no, it’s not what you’re thinking – I’m talking about culinary intelligence.
Unfortunately this boot camp isn’t going to help you toughen up or lose any weight. Rather the Culinary Institute of America holds culinary “boot camps” at each of its three locations – the Hudson Valley (NY), the Napa Valley (CA) and San Antonio (TX) to sharpen your cooking skills. The classes are perfect for those wishing to learn how to cook a certain type of food (think baking, Mexican fare, or making homemade confections). Here you learn from expert chefs and dine in award-winning restaurants while meeting fellow food enthusiasts along the way. They even supply you with a chef’s hat, jacket, pants and neckerchief, so you’ll feel like a real pro.
Here is an example of some of their classes and some of our favorite picks:
Comfort Foods Boot Camp
Hyde Park, NY (2 days)
This two-day class offers a twist on your favorite recipes to help you cook up the most delicious comfort food. You’ll learn the fundamental techniques for preparing each dish – everything from how to use a knife correctly to presentation techniques. Who can say no to a day of mac and cheese, mashed potatoes and apple pie?
Mexican Cuisine Boot Camp
San Antonio, TX (2 days)
Mexican is a very popular cuisine – full of flavor, spice and vibrant colors. This class will teach you how to master the small plates, dishes like salsas, tacos, tamales and tortillas, giving you great ideas for appetizers for your next house party!
Baking Boot Camp
Hyde Park, NY (4 days)
Calling all wannabe domestic goddesses and Martha Stewarts! Learn the fundamentals of baking, including baking bread, muffins, scones and pies. The detailed four day course features lectures and demonstrations before they allow you to try your hand at the recipes. And you’ll come out of the class smelling amazing.
Techniques of Healthy Cooking Boot Camp
San Antonio, TX; Hyde Park, NY (4 days)
We’d all like to eat more healthy meals, but sometimes we need some inspiration! This four day course teaches you how to create delicious yet healthy and nutritious meals. It covers alternative seasoning and flavoring techniques, how to cut the fat out of your dishes and how to maintain variety in your food choices. Plus you get access to the CIA Recreation Center, including tennis courts, a fitness center and a pool – the perfect way to kick start a new diet!
World Cuisine Boot Camp
Hyde Park, NY (5 days)
The mother of all boot camps! This five day marathon class explores food, recipes and ingredients from around the world. On the last day, you revisit each country’s street foods. The class also teaches you how to use special equipment such as woks and tangines to prepare various foreign foods.
Photos courtesy of The Culinary Institute of America/Keith Ferris
Toll free number: 1 800-888-7850
