All About Technique: Grilling

Braising - searing at a high temperature, then finishing in a liquid at a lower temperature to infuse flavor - can add umami and more to pretty much any meal! And the best part is, it creates tender, juicy dishes with a minimum of effort. We'll master this technique as we make a braised banquet of: Guinness-braised short ribs with creamy polenta; braised chicken thighs with mushrooms and balsamic vinegar and braised fennel.

Of the many steakhouses in the U.S., few have a “signature dish.” Among those that do, their claims to fame range from sides and sweets to the steaks themselves. In this cooking class, you’ll prepare a multi-course meal of signature dishes from America’s most renowned steakhouses. Recipes include: chopped salad with hearts of palm, artichoke hearts, and blue cheese from Morton's in Chicago; skirt steak with red wine mojo and orange salsa from Chef Allen's in Aventura, Florida; German-style hash brown potatoes from Peter Luger in Brooklyn, New York; plus mushrooms and onions from Morton's.

Take a page from one of the world's most romantic countries (and cuisines) as you and your partner produce flavor-packed French favorites and gain new culinary knowledge. We'll make a complete meal that highlights the best ingredients and preparations France has to offer, including: tuna niçoise tartine; butter lettuce salad with radish and avocado in a creamy lemon-dijon dressing; coq au vin and pommes aligot.

Hearty hardly begins to describe the extravagant steak feast you'll be making in this class. Not only will you learn how to make the perfect filet mignon, skirt steak and more, but you'll also become versed in the art of rich sauces, like cognac cream, béarnaise and chimichurri. Your saucy menu includes: filet mignon au poivre with cognac cream sauce; onglet béarnaise (hanger steak with tarragon sauce) and skirt steak with Rojo chimichurri.