The Cookie Jar

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).

Braising - searing at a high temperature, then finishing in a liquid at a lower temperature to infuse flavor - can add umami and more to pretty much any meal! And the best part is, it creates tender, juicy dishes with a minimum of effort. We'll master this technique as we make a braised banquet of: Guinness-braised short ribs with creamy polenta; braised chicken thighs with mushrooms and balsamic vinegar and braised fennel.

Simple and delicious are the themes for this class, which teaches you how to make fresh Italian dishes that are so good --- and easy to execute --- you'll make them for yourself, friends and loved ones again and again. Premium ingredients shine in this menu, drawing from the country's great traditions: Tuscan fennel and raddichio salad; hand-rolled meatballs; risotto Milanese and sauteed broccoli rabe with garlic.

Unleash your creativity this holiday season in our Advanced Gingerbread House class! Perfect for bakers looking to elevate their holiday decor, this two day, hands-on workshop guides you through the entire process of designing and constructing an impressive gingerbread house. You’ll learn advanced techniques for from scratch baking, assembling, and decorating, including intricate royal icing piping, modeling chocolate embellishments, and other classic edible decorations. Our instructor will provide tips on achieving structural integrity while adding artistic flair, ensuring your house is both stunning and stable. By the end of the class, you’ll have crafted a show-stopping gingerbread house to display proudly throughout the holidays. Join us for a festive experience that blends baking with artistry, and leave with skills that will impress family and friends for years to come!