Serious Fun!!
With the new year comes new revelations! I really enjoy teaching hands-on classes! My hands-on classes encourage stepping out of your comfort zone, experimenting with different ingredients and herbs, and “playing” with supervision, of course! Here’s a little recipe and exercise for you to try.
To create a basic vinaigrette, you only need to remember a ratio ~ the ratio of acidic components to the oil. That ratio is 1 part acidity to 3 parts oil. What are acidic components? Vinegars (red, white, cider, rice wine, balsamic, flavor-infused, etc), citrus juices, wine (think the really acidic white wines!!). Then, the oil…MANY choices, like olive, grapeseed, walnut, pecan, flavor-infused, etc. Then, there are the “add-ons”. These are little touches of dijon mustard (which helps emulsify the dressing), citrus zest, worchestershire sauce, garlic, shallots, fruit (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, apricots, etc), and fresh herbs. Proceed gently with the add-ons; taste as you go. Combine the dressing as follows: In a food processor or by hand, combine the acidic ingredients with the add-ons, until thoroughly mixed. While whisking quickly, s-l-o-w-l-y add the oil. (In the food processor, have it running and gradually add the oil through the feed tube!) Taste, and add salt and pepper. Give it a try!
I love seeing the enthusiasm as kitchen confidence grows! So many people are “afraid” to cook and experiment. I mean, seriously, what’s the worst that could happen? It might not be wonderful, but I doubt that in too many cases, it will result in something absolutely inedible. So grab some salad greens and other interesting veggies and fruits for your salad, and start playing!
To find a hands-on class near you, check out my cooking class schedule. I’d love to have you in the kitchen.
Happy cooking!
Molly
