Introduction To Fermentation: Mexican Inspired Flavors

ICE's resident sommelier, Richard Vayda, pulls out all the stops for this very special holiday class. Too many people are intimidated by champagne, tending to tiptoe around it instead of enjoying and serving it with food. No longer! In this class, you will dine on beautiful hors d'oeuvres along with a select group of sparkling wines. Your evening begins with a discussion of the origin and making of sparkling wine, while tasting various examples---from non-vintage to vintage to rosé. The highlight of the tasting will feature a Prestige Cuvée Champagne paired with an American challenger. The class rounds out with students enjoying a buffet of classic luxury food matches while indulging in additional bubbly, making for a sparkling winter evening to remember! We'll taste at least nine wines, plus foods.

These desserts are perfect for winter, not just because of their wintry flavors of ginger, peppermint and more, but because of their clever use of fruits that are easily available in winter. And, naturally, you can't forget the chocolate. We'll make: peppermint chocolate truffles; gingerbread cake with chai-spiced frosting; and cranberry and pear crisp.

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.

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.