Latkes & Sufganiyot

Israel, considered the center of the universe in ancient times, is at the juncture of Europe, Asia and Africa, with its coast on the Mediterranean. Its cuisine reflects the influences of all of the cultures around it, and the refugees who have settled there in modern times. You'll explore modern and traditional Israeli cooking when you make: cheese bourekas (flaky pastry-filled puffs); fried cauliflower with tahini sauce; chicken meatballs in tomato sauce with toasted Israeli couscous; and fattoush (pita salad).

For a flash course on all the basics you need to make a varied and impressive meal, look no further. With a professional chef, you'll gain the skills vital for moving through any simple menu with ease. You'll practice knife skills, roasting vegetables, cooking proteins with a pan sauce and a vinaigrette. Then you'll use what you learned as you make a menu of: popovers; sautéed chicken with classic pan sauce; roasted root vegetable salad with fresh herb dressing and garlic mashed potatoes.

Provence is a gastronomic paradise where French techniques meet Mediterranean elements like garlic, basil, olives, lavender and honey. Throughout this enchanting evening, you will learn essential techniques to make simple and aromatic dishes that burst with flavor. On your menu will be: brandade de morue; chicken with potatoes, rosemary, olives and lemon; bouillabaisse with rouille and vegetable tian.

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).