Mastering the Basics

Do you need an antidote for the cold weather? Can that antidote never be too rich or too flavorful? How about spending a whole evening with lush red wines from around the world and hearty cheeses that match them? Richard Vayda, ICE's director of wine studies, will discuss cheesemaking and cheese service, as well as red wine and food pairing, as you sip and eat the evening away. We'll taste at least eight wines, plus matching cheeses.

If you can't get enough of the wonderful steaks, salads, and sides at Gotham's top eateries, join us for this follow-up to one of our most popular classes, The Great New York Steakhouse. In this iteration, we expand upon the classic dishes served at the most celebrated chophouses in this gastronomic city. On your menu: clams casino; wedge salad; filet mignon au poivre with cognac cream sauce; hand-cut fries and grilled asparagus.

Provence is a gastronomic paradise where French techniques meet Mediterranean elements like garlic, basil, olives, lavender and honey. Throughout this enchanting evening, you will learn essential techniques to make simple and aromatic dishes that burst with flavor. On your menu will be: brandade de morue; chicken with potatoes, rosemary, olives and lemon; bouillabaisse with rouille and vegetable tian.

Knowing how to use knives skillfully is the foundation of all cooking, and doesn't have to be scary or frustrating. Many home and even professional cooks don't always wield a knife correctly, however, which increases food preparation time and makes the process harder --- and less safe --- than it should be. Simply put, good knives are the foundation of a well-equipped kitchen. This class remedies all these basic issues: You will learn how to slice, dice, chop, and much more in the safest and most efficient manner. This class will even guide you through the practice of keeping your knives sharp and handling them correctly.