Introduction to Culinary Arts Intensive

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.

Emilia-Romagna, which stretches between the Adriatic coast, northern Tuscany, and the Po Valley, is one of the most prolific agricultural regions of Italy. It is known for its pasta, balsamic vinegar, Parma ham and Parmigiano-Reggiano, among a wealth of other products. While enjoying wines such as Sangiovese and Barbera, you will learn to make traditional dishes that include: brodetto fish stew; cotechino con lenticchie; chicken cacciatore with creamy polenta; and warm zabaglione with Marsala wine for dessert.

Sushi-making doesn't have to be limited to the view from a seat at your local Japanese restaurant. Bring the sushi bar home by practicing your skills at preparing nigiri (sashimi fish on top of thumb-size, compact sushi rice), perfecting the texture of rice, and learning the proper techniques to create a stellar hand roll. Once you've gotten the basics down, you will try your hand at: sushi rice; maki and futomaki rolls (both thin and thick), inside-out rolls; nigiri and temaki (hand roll).. You will soon learn that sushi is something you too can master.

Grilling is one of the best ways to cook food simply while obtaining a maximum amount of flavor. You can grill on the stovetop, in your backyard, or over charcoal or gas. In this class you will learn how to modify your grilling technique depending on the medium used. You will also discuss how dry rubs and sauces are used on the grill, then put those lessons to use as you make: grilled steaks; shrimp skewers; chicken satay with peanut dipping sauce and grilled portobello mushrooms and zucchini.