Youngest Chef Mini Bootcamp

Young chefs (aged 6 – 10) dive into a hands‑on  4 hour cooking adventure where they learn real kitchen skills using real kitchen tools. Kids will measure, mix, dice, peel, blend, season, taste and roll as they work with a blender, food processor, stovetop, and oven.

Along the way, they’ll create three delicious dishes — cheesy pasta cups, blender pancake bites, and mini meatballs in a simple tomato sauce — while practicing kitchen safety, basic knife skills, and confidence with everyday equipment.

Every child takes home their creations (or enjoys them as they go). A lively, empowering class for curious young cooks.

$65

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Delightful Grab n Go and Culinary Classes

Upcoming classes, comforting meals, and quirky food holidays—here’s what’s cooking at Art of Cookery this season!

As the air turns crisp and cozy cravings kick in, Art of Cookery is serving up a delicious lineup of culinary classes and Grab n Go fare to warm your heart and your belly. Whether you’re looking to master sauces, herbs, or pasta—or just want to grab a comforting meal on the go—we’ve got something special for you.

Upcoming Classes

Join us in the kitchen for hands-on learning, laughter, and flavor-packed fun:

  • Five Mother Sauces – Nov 18 @ 5 pm: Learn the foundational sauces that elevate any dish.
  • Pierogi Paradise – Nov 24 @ 1 pm: Dive into cheesy pockets of yum.
  • Cooking with Herbs – Dec 2 @ 12 noon: Discover how herbs transform everyday meals.
  • How to Create a Charcuterie Board – Dec 6 @ 5 pm: Craft a spread that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
  • Art of Pasta – Dec 9 @ 5 pm: Roll, shape, and simmer your way to pasta perfection.
  • Convection Oven Cooking – Dec 11 @ 1 pm: Learn how to make the most of this versatile appliance whether you are using an air fryer or a full sized convection oven…or something in between.

Want to see the full schedule?  Go to our webpage, scroll down and click the red Calendar of Classes button.

Grab N Go for November 17 - 23

Swing by for comforting classics, ready when you are (Don’t want to take your chances?  Order ahead with pick-up date and time to ensure you get what you want):

  • Turkey Dinner Meal: Roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, cranberry sauce, green beans, and bread—Thanksgiving in a box!
  • Shaved Pork Sammies: Tender pork shoulder with brioche buns, horseradish sauce and au jus, perfect for dipping and devouring.
  • Soup of the Week: A hearty stew to warm you from the inside out.

The above meals don’t interest you?  Want pasta, minestrone, or meatloaf instead (for example)? Tell Chef Valerie what you want.   Someone has ordered some low carb meals for next week, maybe that’s your cup of tea?  Request a meal or two for yourself.  Give some notice though…special requests can’t happen the same day.

Wonder what is in Grab n Go at any given time?  Text Chef Valerie at 231-740-4065 and ask.

Heads up! There will be no Grab n Go service the week of Thanksgiving (Nov 25–29), so stock up early or join us for a class instead!

Quirky Food Holidays

Beyond Thanksgiving, November offer some upcoming delightfully oddball food holidays to inspire your plate:

  • Nov 18 – National Apple Cider Day: Sip something spiced while you stir your sauces.
  • Nov 21 – National Stuffing Day: A perfect excuse to indulge before the big feast.
  • Dec 4 – National Cookie Day: Bake, share, and savor the sweet side of the season.
  • Dec 11 – National Noodle Ring Day: A retro nod to pasta creativity—just in time for our Art of Pasta class! (can I say eewwwww?)

Creme Brulée

Crème Brûlée: Crack the Code to Custard Bliss

Step into the sweet side of French culinary tradition with this hands-on class dedicated to the iconic crème brûlée. You’ll learn to craft the silkiest vanilla bean custard from scratch, mastering the balance of cream, egg yolks, and sugar. Then comes the magic: torching the sugar topping to create that signature glassy crack—equal parts science and satisfaction.

Each student will take some home.

Whether you’re a dessert devotee or just love a good culinary showstopper, this class is your golden ticket to custard perfection.

Adult:  $55

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Pasta: Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina: A Hands-On Taste of Italy A beautiful image of plated Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Pack your culinary passport and join us for a delicious journey through Italy—no plane ticket required! In this hands-on class, we’ll explore the beloved Italian dumpling known as gnocchi, tracing its humble origins from ancient Roman kitchens to the cozy trattorias of Campania.

You’ll start by crafting pillowy potato gnocchi from scratch, learning the secrets of perfect dough and how to shape each piece using a traditional gnocchi board. Then we’ll simmer a garlicky tomato sauce kissed with basil, fold in creamy mozzarella, and bake it all until bubbly and golden—just like they do in Sorrento.

As the aroma fills the kitchen, you’ll portion your dish to take home and enjoy. But don’t be surprised if you sneak a taste right out of the oven at Art of Cookery—we won’t judge!

Whether you’re a pasta lover, a cheese enthusiast, or simply craving a cozy culinary adventure, this class is your ticket to Italy’s heartwarming flavors.

Adult: $40

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An image of a zucchini wearing sunglasses and a moustach with a sign that says "You've been zucchini'd!"

Zucchini Shenanigans

🥒 Zucchini Shenanigans & Other Delicious Reasons to Celebrate This Week

At Art of Cookery, we believe food should be fun, flavorful, and sometimes just a little mischievous. This week, we’re embracing the spirit of Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor’s Porch Day (August 8) with a playful challenge:
Leave a zucchini surprise for someone you love—or someone who needs a little veggie joy. Bonus points if it’s shaped like a duck, stuffed with cheese, or wearing sunglasses. 🕶️ (we want pics, use hashtag: #AoCporchzucchini)

And if you’re wondering what to do with all that zucchini, we’ve got ideas galore. From savory muffins to fritters to sweet bread, to chilled zucchini soup, we’re here to help you turn your porch bounty into culinary brilliance. Just reach out and ask for suggestions.

📅 This Week’s Food Holidays to Savor

Why stop at zucchini? Here are some other tasty reasons to celebrate:

  • Aug 4: National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day 🍪 – Bake a batch for a summer picnic.
  • Aug 5: National Couscous Day 🍚 – Perfect timing for our Pork & Sweet Potato Tagine with Couscous landing in the Grab n Go fridge this week!
  • Aug 6: National Root Beer Float Day 🍨 – What a perfect time for a float-inspired treat.
  • Aug 7: Raspberries N’ Cream Day 🍓 – Think parfaits, vinaigrettes, and berry bliss.
  • Aug 8: Frozen Custard Day & Mochi Day 🍦🍡 – Global flavors meet creamy comfort.
  • Aug 9: Rice Pudding Day 🍚 – Will it appear in the fridge? Anyone interested?…

🧊 What’s Landing in the Grab n Go Magic Fridge

This week’s lineup is a delicious mix of comfort and global flair:

  • 🥘 Pork & Sweet Potato Tagine with Couscous – Moroccan-inspired cuisine cooked in a tagine in a ready-to-reheat dish. $10
  • 🍅 Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese Croutons – Classic comfort with a crunchy twist. $8
  • 🍝 Two 8×8 Lasagna Pans – Perfect for sharing… or not. $22
  • 🍗 Bruschetta Chicken with Angel Hair Pasta – Bright, zesty, and satisfying. $9
  • 🎁 And maybe a surprise or two… (Hint: it might involve zucchini mischief.)

🍳 Upcoming Classes to Feed Your Curiosity

Whether you’re a pasta lover, a pickle fanatic, or a pastry dreamer, we’ve got something for you:

Date Class
Aug 6 @ 1pm 🥟 Ravioli Making
Aug 11 @ 5pm 🍝 Spaghetti & Marinara
Aug 13 @ 1pm 🧆 Pakoras & Chutney
Aug 14 @ 12pm 🍰 Pâte à Choux
Aug 17 @ 1pm 🥒 Pickle Party (Water Bath Canning!)
Aug 20 @ 5pm 🥟 Pierogi Paradise
Aug 28 @ 1pm 🥚 Quiche Class
Aug 31 @ 1pm 🍪 Scones

Come learn, laugh, and leave with something delicious. Classes are hands-on, joy-filled, and perfect for all skill levels. Click the link: Art of Cookery Cooking School – Home and scroll down to find the calendar of classes and register for your choices.

💌 Call to Action

So grab a zucchini, mark your calendar, and swing by the Grab n Go fridge for a week full of flavor and fun.
Want to pre-order food or reserve a class spot (but not register online)? Text 231-740-4065, FB message us AoC on Facebook, or email us ICan@artcookery.com—your taste buds will thank you.

And remember: if you find a zucchini on your porch this week… you’ve been officially welcomed into the Shenanigans Club. 🎉P.S. We want to see your zucchini shenanigans photos!

An authentic cuban sandwich with mustard pickles and 3 meats.

Mastering the Cuban Sandwich

From History to Your Kitchen: Master the Cuban Sandwich with Chef Valerie Hanson

Ah, the Cuban sandwich—an iconic dish with a history as flavorful as the sandwich itself. Its origins are a point of pride (and debate) in Florida. Was it Tampa, where cigarmakers in Ybor City needed a hearty, portable meal? Or Miami, where Cuban immigrants shared their culinary culture with the world? While the jury’s still out, one thing’s for sure: this sandwich has become a universal favorite, and it’s your turn to discover why.

At its core, a Cuban sandwich is no ordinary sandwich. It’s a perfect combination of mojo-marinated pork, cheese, pickles, mustard, 2 other meats, and crispy Cuban bread. But creating one worthy of its heritage? That’s where I come in.

I’m excited to bring you not one but two live(via ZOOM) cooking classes that will have you mastering the art of the Cuban sandwich. Both classes are standalone experiences, so you can choose to take one or both. However, participating in both will elevate your culinary skills and Cuban sandwich game even further!A vibrant dish of golden yellow mustard alongside a juicy mojo pork roast.

March 16, 1 PM EST: Perfecting the Foundations Our journey begins with the essentials—because a Cuban sandwich is only as good as the ingredients at its heart. In this live class, I’ll teach you to make mustard from scratch, starting with mustard seeds and crafting it to match your personal tastes. You’ll also learn the art of mojo pork: marinated in bold, zesty flavors and slow-roasted to tender perfection. These skills can stand on their own to transform your cooking, or they can prepare you for the next week’s class.  Click here to learn more and book.

March 23, 1 PM EST: The Cuban Sandwich Masterclass Now that we’ve built the foundation, it’s time to assemble perfection. This class will guide you through stacking and pressing the ultimate Cuban sandwich. From layering the ingredients to pressing it to golden, crispy excellence, I’ll share every secret I’ve learned—including some fun tidbits about the sandwich’s history. Don’t worry if you missed the first class; ingredient lists and prep instructions will ensure you’re ready to create magic.  Click here to learn more and book.

Both classes are live via Zoom and designed to be interactive and fun. Whether you cook along or simply watch and take notes, you’ll connect with fellow food lovers and bring the taste of Cuba into your home. Ingredient lists and preparation details will be sent in advance, so you’re fully ready to dive in.

Spaces are limited, so sign up today to join me on this flavorful adventure. Be sure to include your email address as that is how you will get prep information.

Together, let’s honor the Cuban sandwich’s rich history—one delicious bite at a time!

Authentic Cuban Sandwich

Join Chef Valerie Hanson for a Culinary Adventure: The Cuban Sandwich Experience

Step into our teaching kitchen and embark on a flavorful journey with Chef Valerie.  You’ll learn the art of creating an authentic Cuban sandwich—straight from its origins.

After an inspiring trip to Florida to uncover the secrets of this iconic dish, Chef Valerie is ready to share her discoveries with you. Master the techniques behind tender mojo pork, explore essential assembly tips, and perfect the balance of flavors that make the Cuban sandwich unforgettable. Enjoy a sprinkling of history and fun facts along the way.

BONUS: Participants will be also crafting fresh mustard!

 Don’t miss this chance to bring the taste of Cuban sammies into your home while learning from a passionate chef and storyteller.

An authentic cuban sandwich with mustard pickles and 3 meats.

Adult: $49

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Shrimp Po’ Boy

🎉 Join us for an Epic Coastal Culinary Adventure: Crafting the Perfect Shrimp Po’ Boy! 🍤

Embark on a virtual journey with Chef ValerieShrimp Po Boy in the vibrant gulf shore south of  Alabama! In this unique class hosted by the Art of Cookery, we’ll delve into the soulful essence of Southern comfort food as we master the art of creating the iconic Shrimp Po’ Boy sandwich.

🥒 Just a note, Chef Valerie is using her homemade  pickle relish and dill pickles.  Go YOU if you make your own too.

🎨 Crafting the Remoulade:

Prepare to awaken your taste buds with Chef Valerie’s signature remoulade sauce. Learn the art of blending the perfect balance of flavors to complement your golden-fried shrimp.  Also learn how to switch out the shrimp for other options that make this classic sandwich perfectly yours.

Don’t miss this opportunity to join this culinary road trip, where you’ll transform humble ingredients into a mouthwatering Shrimp Po’ Boy sensation. Reserve your spot today and let’s embark on this foodie adventure together! 🌟

Adults: $46

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How to Substitute Ingredients – Fridge Forage and Pantry Party

Learn from Chef Valerie Hanson how to make a great comfort food from ingredients you have on hand. The topic is Goulash. But this class isn’t just about goulash, it is about how to adapt recipes to your unique diet and tastes; as well as what you simply happen to have on-hand. This is a great class for budget minded people, folks who want to change recipes from meat based-to plant based, and even those who simple want to learn how to substitute ingredients easily.
$39
To register, just click the Book Now button (you’ll be taken to a calendar that shows class date, click on the scheduled class) or call 231-740-4065 or email ICan@artcookery.com

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Sushi Sensation

Welcome to the Art of Cookery: Sushi Sensation Class!

Embark on a culinary journey and dive into the enchanting world of sushi. This hands-on experience promises to be a feast for your senses, combining the delicate artistry of sushi-making with the exploration of diverse flavors and textures that define this beloved Japanese cuisine.

Class Overview:

In Sushi Sensation, we invite you to unlock the secrets behind the perfect roll, explore unique fillings, and discover the various styles that make sushi a true culinary art form. Chef Valerie Hanson will guide you through the techniques of rolling, shaping, and presenting sushi, ensuring you leave with the confidence to recreate these beautiful dishes in your own kitchen.

Variety and Artistry:

Sushi is more than just a meal; it’s an expression of creativity and precision. Discover the kaleidoscope of colors, shapes, and flavors that characterize this global sensation. From the simplicity of Masubi to the elegance of Hosomaki and Futomaki and the avant-garde flair of Temaki, our class will immerse you in a diverse spectrum of sushi styles. Learn the about balancing textures, contrasting flavors, and creating visually stunning presentations that will leave your guests in awe.

Ingredient Exploration:

At the heart of sushi lies a world of unique ingredients, each contributing to the symphony of tastes that define this cuisine.  Delve into the nuances of sushi-grade raw fish, discussing the importance of quality and freshness. While we won’t be preparing raw fish in class, Chef Valerie will provide essential insights on sourcing, handling, and pairing to ensure you’re well-equipped to select the safest ingredients for your sashimi creations.

Hands-On Experience:

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the culinary magic of sushi-making. Our class offers a hands-on experience, allowing you to practice the art of rolling and shaping. Whether you’re a sushi novice or a seasoned home cook, our class is designed to be inclusive and enjoyable for all skill levels.

Join Us:

Don’t miss the opportunity to become a sushi sensation in your own kitchen! Immerse yourself in the world of sushi at the Art of Cookery, where creativity, flavor, and artistry come together in perfect harmony. Reserve your spot in our Sushi Sensation class now, and let the adventure begin!

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests with the skills and knowledge gained from this culinary experience. The Art of Cookery awaits you on this sushi journey!

Adult $45

Young chefs (under 16) $45 …must have had prior experience at Art of Cookery and be preapproved by Chef Valerie for this class.  

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