We can’t believe it either, but Valentine’s Day has already come around again. While it may seem that nothing is much different from years before, Cooking by the Book has gone through some very big changes. Our new website and blog are up, our new china is out, and our new classes are now underway. Unlike years before, Cooking by the Book is now offering personal classes open to the public, and we’re happy to announce that so far they have been a success.
Late in 2011, we began our Butchering classes with Fleisher’s, and earlier this year, we began our Cooking for Couples Class Series, where couples come to learn how to be a better team in the kitchen, and then enjoy their delicious creations together as they dine with other pairs. Our first two classes have been a success, with a lot of happy couples, and a lot of delicious food.
We hosted our second installment of the class this past Saturday, with a romantic Valentine’s Day theme for couples who wanted to celebrate the holiday in a new way this year. Fourteen wonderful couples came, and together created a fabulous meal consisting of shrimp bisque, chicken with champagne sauce, and a molten chocolate lava cake.
As we always find in our events, recipes differed from team to team. But, from spicy, to garlicky, to more subtle renditions of the recipe, we found that the shrimp bisque resulted in the most differing tastes and by far sparked the most curiosity. Couples were eager to find out which shrimp bisque rendition was best, but we still stick by our verdict that, although different, all were equally good.
We don’t repeat recipes in these classes, so the Shrimp Bisque score will never be settled, but we encourage couples to come back, and for new couples to come and try the class! If you’re still in need of a last minute Valentine’s day present, it makes the perfect gift, but why not join this great shared experience anyway? Our next couples classes will be held on Friday, February 24th, and Wednesday, March 14th. Our March class (3.14) will feature a very special menu, where guests learn how to create several different kinds of “pi,” both sweet and savory. If you’re looking to share a new, special experience with your partner, it might be just the thing.
Our Shrimp Bisque recipe to follow…