Hands-On Mediterranean Boot Camp

Take a journey with us as we explore and feast on the varied cuisines of the Mediterranean. We’ll dive deep into the diverse and eclectic flavors of the Middle East, Turkey, Italy, Greece and North African countries and discover their similarities and differences during our culinary tour. Join us as we celebrate fresh, bright and vibrant flavors with a focus on vegetables, grains, protein, olive oil, spices and herbs to create a distinct assortment of exciting recipes.   

Menu: 

• Shakshuka with Herbed Garlic Flatbread- Middle Eastern 
• Yogurt, Cheese and Spinach-Filled Borek- Turkish 
• Saffron and Pea Arancini (Crispy Risotto Balls) with Calabrian Chile Aioli- Italian 
• Eggplant and Lamb Moussaka- Greek 
• Chicken Tagine with Couscous- North African   
• Grilled Swordfish with Lemon and Parsley, White Beans, Tomatoes and Greens- Italian  

Skills covered in class:

• Getting familiar with Middle Eastern, Turkish, Italian, Greek and North African cuisines and ingredients
• Working with yeast dough
• Griddling
• Preparing tomato sauces
• Working with fresh herbs and spices
• Poaching eggs
• Selecting ground lamb
• Balancing flavors
• Working with phyllo dough
• Making fillings
• Working with arborio rice
• Breading and deep frying
• Preparing béchamel
• Working with and salting eggplant
• Selecting and braising chicken 
• Selecting and grilling fish
• Determining chicken and fish doneness
• Steaming couscous

In this hands-on class, students will be paired in groups of three to four and work together as a team to prepare the recipes.

Want to see more classes? Visit thechoppingblock.com.