Couples Champagne Gala for Valentine's Day

From bibimbap to bulgogi, the signature dishes of Korea have seduced America with intoxicating flavors. Sweet-spicy flavor combos are popular, as are the vegetables, meat and seafood that are featured in main dishes as well as in banchan, the Korean assortment of side dishes that appears in most traditional meals. You will learn to make dakgangjeong (hot chicken wings); bulgogi (grilled seasoned sliced beef) with assorted banchan; and bibimbap (seasoned vegetable rice bowl).

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.

Georgian cuisine is finally being recognized for its variety, and the depth of flavors and techniques that characterize its unique culinary traditions. Given the country's location at the exact intersection of Europe and Asia, influences from both cultures have informed the dishes that the region is known for. From the banks of the Black Sea to the Caucasus Mountains, the land provides herbs, nuts and vegetables used in all aspects of its culinary traditions. You’ll become acquainted with the new "it" cuisine as you prepare: adjaruli khachapuri (cheese bread); nigvziani badrijani (stuffed eggplant rolls); tabaka (chicken cooked "under a brick") with blackberry sauce; and chakapuli (braised lamb with tarragon sauce).

In this course, you'll learn the techniques to prepare four simple and delicious seafood dishes. The chef instructor will share tips and tricks for selecting the best seafood, and you'll sit down to your completed menu of: refreshing shrimp salad with herbal vinaigrette; Thai curry mussels; fish tacos; steamed fish en papillote with vegetable ribbons, citrus and herbs.