Valentine's Day New York Steakhouse: A Virtual Class

Experience the bold, aromatic flavors of the Caribbean in this "Essentials of West Indian Cooking" class! You’ll make Haitian Soup Joumou and Jamaican Jerk Chicken; Dominican Gandules and Rice with caramelized plantains; and Trinidadian Channa Doubles (a beloved and satisfying street food). It’s a smoky-meets-spicy, sweet-plus-savory menu that gives you a taste of the islands – and the skills to replicate them at home.

New York City has some of the most famous steakhouses in the country. These classic establishments are known for a distinctive homey atmosphere and a trademark cuisine that has been pleasing diners for decades. Spend an evening learning the techniques and recipes you need to replicate your favorite steakhouse experience at home. You'll make and enjoy classic shrimp cocktail; Caesar salad; grilled New York strip with beurre Maître d'Hôtel; creamed spinach and truffled mashed potatoes.

These delightful cupcakes come in a range of flavors and frostings, not to mention some well-matched fillings. As we make the cakes, fillings and frostings from scratch, we'll pair strawberry with vanilla, chocolate with white chocolate ganache, peanut butter with chocolate icing, and even birthday cupcakes with a piñata surprise of sprinkles inside. Your cupcake menu: strawberry shortcake with vanilla bean cake and whipped vanilla bean buttercream; chocolate trio with dark chocolate cake, white chocolate ganache and milk chocolate frosting; birthday "piñata" cupcakes with sprinkle buttercream; and peanut butter and chocolate cupcakes with peanut butter frosting.

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.