ACC: Tools & Techniques of Tandoori Cooking

Although it contains vast areas of arid landscape, the Middle East is a fertile spot on the culinary map. Over the years, various empires have ruled the region's countries, leaving their imprint on the colorful, aromatic and diverse flavors. Recipes are dominated by spice blends, in-season vegetables and fruits, grains, olives and olive oil, nuts, herbs, and pickled and preserved foods. From Beirut, the “Paris of the Middle East,” to Jerusalem, considered the oldest city in the world, you will get a taste of the incredible culinary heritage with a magnificent vegetarian menu of hummus; tabbouleh; spicy falafel, tahini sauce; baba ghanoush and homemade pita.

Travel the world with hearty and vibrant vegetarian entrees from around the globe! These international standouts will quickly become your go-to recipes for any day of the week. Healthful, flavor-packed and a snap to make, this is a menu you'll love learning together. We'll make all three dishes, from comfort food to Asian specialties to Mexican mains, then sit down to this meal of: sesame-crusted Asian tofu with garlic-fried wild rice; enchiladas suizas with cheese and roasted vegetables; and orecchiette pasta with roasted cauliflower and caramelized onions.

Any time is the right time to brush up on your chocolate skills! In this part hands-on and part demonstration-based class, students will review the basics of chocolate tempering and formulating chocolate centers, with an array of fillings and confections for use in truffles, molded chocolates, and candies. It features recipes you’ll want to make year-round – and will make you everybody’s favorite holiday house guest!

Often overlooked by casual wine drinkers, this ancient grape-growing and winemaking area is a star in many enthusiasts’ cellars. Passing back and forth between Germany and France several times throughout history, Alsace's Germanic influence in grape varieties and labeling is clear, but the French style of the wines shines through. While featuring fragrant dry Rieslings, Alsace offers many other charms, including delicate Pinot Noirs, sparkling Crémant d’Alsace, and other luscious late-harvest examples. Join Richard Vayda, ICE's resident sommelier, on an exploration of the history, wine regulations, labeling and, most important, wines of this classic wine region. The class will sample nine or more wines, accompanied by matching snacks.