Cutting the cheese is encouraged at the Chopping Block.
Like many Americans, you've probably figured out that one of the easiest ways to save some dough is to cook at home. But for those of us who've gotten used to eating out several times a week, this is easier said than done.
A lot of Chicagoans are turning to cooking classes to beef up their kitchen abilities, and there is no shortage of places to turn in this city of food. Whether you want to learn to recreate your favorite Pad Thai or bake the perfect butter cookies, there's someone out there to help you.
Chopping Block
Looking for a long-term cooking plan? Really need a total cooking overhaul? Drop into a class at the Chopping Block. With two locations (one in Lincoln Square and another in Merchandise Mart) the Chopping Block is all about learning the art of cooking one step at a time. Classes include basics like knife skills as well as recipe-based themes like Italy In Autumn. Ingredient-based classes, like You Don't Know Squash and Chicken 101 are also available (depending on the season). The Chopping Block also has special classes for date nights and even a girls' night. Want to get your kid in the mix? Try a class geared towards them (think grilled cheese) or take a family-themed class. Demonstration classes are $40, hands-on classes are $75 and wine classes are $60.
Ranjana's Indian Cooking Class
Want to nail down your Masala technique? Head to the home of Ranjana Bhargava. Bhargava shares her 30-plus years of culinary talent in these Indian cooking classes for all skill levels. Guests learn to cook together and are rewarded by sharing a nine-course meal afterward. This class is great for families, friends or even first dates. Classes cost $75 per class or $275 for a four part series. Get a $10 discount by bringing a friend.
Cooking Fools
No matter what you're looking to learn Cooking Fools has you covered. The company's 5,000 square-foot facility in the heart of Wicker Park/Bucktown offers classes on sushi, searing and roasting, handmade pasta and even a class called Kitchen 101-Your Oven Isn’t Just for Storage. Classes are offered on the rooftop in warm weather. Cooking Fools isn't about learning to follow a recipe. It's about learning the skills you need to be confident in the kitchen no matter the ingredients. Classes start at $50 and go up to $275 for multiple class offerings.
Wooden Spoon
For some people, the kitchen is the enemy. Utensils seem like foreign objects, spices beyond salt and pepper are unrecognizable and pots and pans are interchangeable. Classes at Wooden Spoon aim to change all of that. Classes cover basics like knife skills, intermediate knowledge like ingredient order and by the end of class you'll know a few new recipes. Classes at Wooden Spoon are also a great way to meet new people for singles or to bond with a loved one. The average cost is $65.
Cook Au Vin
Perhaps it's the fine art of French cooking you'd like to master. Well, there's no better place to start than Cook Au Vin. Classes are tailored to those who book them. It can be a large group or a private class for a couple. Learn to cook recognizable dishes like French onion soup or coq au vin, or more challenging choices like beef burgundy, crepes/galettes or potatoes sarladaise. The cost is $185 for a couple or $85 per person for groups of three or more for three- to four-hour classes. Included in the cost is an aperitif, instruction and supplies and dinner in the bistro after class. Students may (and should) bring their own wine.
Rasoi
If you're looking to order out your favorite curry a little less often, this Indian and Thai class is for you. The class demystifies Asian cooking by allowing students hands-on experience with Asian techniques and ingredients. Classes are kept small (only eight to 10 people) so that each student gets the guidance he or she requires. Naveen Sachar's classes are about food, sure, but they are also about enjoying the company of your fellow chefs. Each class is $50.
Give Me Some Sugar
Your kitchen is not so scary, and Alekka Sweeney will prove it to you. Sweeney is the executive chef of Give Me Some Sugar, an "in-home" cooking class business. Sweeney and her staff will bring the cooking class to you, showing you how to work with your kitchen to create dishes either savory or sweet so that, when she leaves, you'll know exactly what to do. And, because the class is at your house, you can decide the curriculum based on your needs. Prices include the cost of food, recipes, aprons to wear during class and instruction. Prices are based per person and may include a destination fee depending on where you live.
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