Seafood Basics: A Virtual Class

By the latter half of the 19th century, bistros were centers of social life in Paris, catering to great painters, writers, musicians and other artists. The simple, down-to-earth food served at such bistros quickly became as celebrated as the eateries' most famous patrons - and it's still celebrated in Paris and around the world today. You will make traditional dishes of that bygone era, such as: steak tartare; frisée salad with apples, lardons and goat cheese in a warm shallot-bacon vinaigrette; moules frites and haricot verts amandine.

Learn how to make scrumptious dumplings from a wide range of Asian traditions --- all hands-on. We'll also create perfect dipping sauces in each tradition. Together, you'll make and dine on: steamed shrimp shao mai with orange dipping sauce; deep-fried chicken wontons; vegetable gyoza with spicy dipping sauce; and pork and chive dumplings.

What does "healthy cooking" mean, anyway? Plant-based? Macrobiotic? Low-salt? Gluten-free? Depending on whom you ask --- whether it be a nutritionist, a doctor, a chef or your mom - you will likely get different answers. While there is no single definition for what constitutes healthy eating, most people will agree that there are several key principles and dietary guidelines that will lead you toward a well-balanced diet. In this intensive series, we will explore a sensible approach to cooking and eating, using a wholesome array of ingredients. You will learn which foods you should choose on a regular basis to keep your body running smoothly, as well as those you should try to limit and why. Each day, you’ll get fully hands-on in our kitchens as you master a variety of dishes that demonstrate how you can cook healthfully, without sacrificing flavor.

Today's best French cooking combines time-tested techniques with classic French ingredients in modern flavor combinations. We’ll put all of these principles into practice as we assemble a banquet par excellence, consisting of: escargot (snails); bass vierge; rack of lamb Persillade; and sautéed carrots with quatre épices.