Mastering the Art of French Cooking - Winter Cooking Series
See class series descriptions under 'Lifestyle' education
I, like most foodies, saw the film Julie & Julia shortly after it debuted in theaters this fall. I met Julia Child in 1996, when she was in the area promoting her Baking with Julia book. Like many, I knew of her later work, as I was starting my culinary career, but was not as familiar with the true significance of her earlier influences on American food culture and initial contributions to the popularity of cooking in the American home. I enjoyed the film very much, witnessing her unique approach to navigating the world of food – particularly – French. I have always been intrigued by the origins of food, classic techniques and the execution of recipes. In preparing a classic recipe, just like reading a novel or playing a piece of music, it is possible to create identical preparations, precisely as intended by those who developed them. By using authentic tools, understanding definitions and terminology and the proper application of methods and techniques we can actually craft dishes and taste history – it’s an amazing process – one worth exploring.
My wife recently gave me my own copy of Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child, Louisette Bertholle and Simone Beck. I have read most it and have learned so much – even after 2 years of culinary school, and 12 years working in the industry. I have been working on a new schedule of classes and decided that I would like to share this masterwork with others. Classes for the winter will be based on Julia’s book. We will work from different chapters and subject matter, utilizing authentic tools, ingredients and classic methods exactly as originally transcribed by the Julia, Louisette and Simone. Each recipe, variation and enrichment will be reproduced precisely as the authors intended (at least to the fullest extent we are able). We will also teach how to navigate the book, which was formatted with unique referencing methods – each recipe providing countless variations, blending concepts and referencing accompaniments described in other portions of the text.
These classes will be offered as single subjects, so not necessary to take them in order, and remember, no experience is necessary, as we will learn together. Sound like fun? I think so. Feel free to buy your own copy of Mastering the Art of French Cooking and bring it along to take notes and personalize your experience as we cook through the book! Also, these classes (and the book) make great holiday and birthday gifts.
A Little Taste of Who We Are
Epicurean Exchange inspires individuals to bring a sense of balance, empowerment, well-being and enjoyment to their lives by providing culinary experiences, adventures and education. Through our programs with corporations and individuals that focus on basic culinary skills, wellness and lifestyle enrichment, we strive to impart our philosophy; that embracing the day’s routines and rituals with greater awareness and commitment adds quality to life. The “exchange”, takes place in the environment we create; one of optimal learning and understanding between like-minded participants. We believe this environment encourages the commitment these individuals and work groups have made to more mindful living.
Epicurean Exchange was founded in 1999 by Charles Vollmar with the belief that awareness, simply applied, will help us define and meet personal goals. Charlie is a popular cooking instructor, consultant, writer and chef/owner of Epicurean Exchange. A graduate of the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, his work emphasizes basic skill and technique work, and wellness and lifestyle enrichment topics relating to cooking, nutrition, fitness and special needs. His days are spent teaching at top-notch culinary schools, designing custom wellness programs for corporate clients, health clubs and wellness clinics, facilitating interactive workshops, and is currently working on his first book.
Companies in the Kitchen
Epicurean Exchange specializes in dynamic cooking events for businesses and organizations. In a comfortable and stimulating environment, we provide culinary activities that mirror workplace challenges. In the kitchen, work groups will prepare one of several courses from a seasonal menu and then sit down to enjoy the delicious results together. Employees learn about the impact their work styles have on each other and workplace situations. As a result employers can expect greater productivity and improved workgroup dynamics. Employees will approach professional situations with greater confidence and clarity, and will be motivated to embrace positive life skills.
Corporate Wellness
As a compliment to our cooking programs, Epicurean Exchange blends cooking with custom-designed workshops that focus on managing the effects of external factors on daily work life. Programs are presented by experts in their fields.Topics include the following:Nutrition and fitness for working professionals; Stress Reduction/ Management Skills; Aligning TeamsWork/Life Balance - Programs can also be developed to address your specific corporate needs and objectives
‘Kitchen Fitness’ - Personal Training for the Kitchen
Epicurean Exchange offers personalized ‘kitchen fitness’ programs that assess and transform your shopping, cooking and eating habits the way a personal trainer would restructure your fitness routine. A typical program of 3 four-hour sessions includes : 1. In-Home Assessment - We evaluate equipment, pantry,meal-planning and organization. We consult with the individual or family to determine goals and preferences. We develop an initial provisions list and present shopping strategies. 2. Neighborhood Market Visit - We expose you to unfamiliar foods and emphasize variety and nutritional aspects. 3. The last session is a chance to review the previous work and fine-tune plans for maintaining a lasting program forbetter eating. The balance of each session will focus on hands-on preparation of core recipes using ingredients and concepts discussed. Each participant will receive a manual including shopping lists, recipes and menus to build on. Program fee includes personal instruction, materials and food.
Private Cooking Parties and Demonstrations
Epicurean Exchange offers lively entertaining alternatives with private cooking parties, demonstrations and classes. For groups of 6-50 guests, choose a sit-down meal with a team approach to cooking, or an interactive class or demonstration on a subject of your choice. Parties are held in your home or distinctive kitchen venues throughout the Bay Area. We offer seasonal menus using the finest and freshest local ingredients.
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