Why Cooking Matters?
Adapted from guest post contributed by Isidora (Isi) L. Muñoz Segovia, Maine SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educator
Have you ever been curious about what it's like to participate in one of our cooking classes? Embrace that curiosity and join us! Our adult classes are the perfect way to try new recipes, learn about nutrition, and have a great time making new connections while learning more about how to take care of your health.
This month, I am teaching a Cooking Matters class at OpenTable MDI in Bar Harbor. Join me on a culinary adventure through one of our cooking sessions.
Sharing Experiences and Setting Up
As the clock strikes 4 p.m., our cooking class comes to life. Participants from all walks of life gather, their faces filled with excitement and anticipation. Before diving into the day’s culinary exploration, we begin by sharing our recent cooking experiences, often inspired by the recipes from our lesson books. Today, the hot topic is the delectable vegetable lasagna we recently conquered. Amidst these delicious discussions, our class starts to take shape.
Lesson 2: Choosing Fruits, Vegetables, and Whole Grains
With everyone settled and engaged, we move into the heart of our class – Lesson 2: Choosing Fruits, Vegetables, and Whole Grains.
The first half of the class is dedicated to exploring the pros and cons of frozen, canned, and fresh produce. We delve into the concept of "eating your rainbow," emphasizing the importance of incorporating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables into our diets. Whole grains and their significance also take center stage. Our discussions are not merely one-way lectures but interactive exchanges. Participants freely share their preferences for storing produce and their experiences with different textures, sparking engaging conversations that enrich the learning experience.
Setting Ground Rules and Getting Cooking
As we near the midpoint of our session, we remind ourselves of the agreements we made when entering the kitchen space. Clean hands, effective communication, and knife safety are crucial aspects we emphasize, ensuring a safe and enjoyable cooking environment.
With our chefs ready and aprons donned, it's time to put theory into practice. Our participants are divided into two groups, each assigned a unique recipe for the day. Today's culinary creations include a Hearty Soup and Black Bean Brownies, both packed with flavor and nutrition.
A Symphony of Aromas
As the cooking process kicks off, time seems to fly by. Both groups exhibit great teamwork and cooperation, meticulously following each step of their respective recipes and transforming the kitchen into a symphony of fragrant and delicious aromas. While the hearty soup is bubbling away on the stove, the intoxicating aroma of brownies baking in the oven fills the kitchen with a rich, chocolatey sweetness and the kitchen transforms into a bustling hub of activity. Dishes are washed and dried, and the table is set in preparation for our communal meal.
Time to Eat!
As we gather around the table, there is a palpable sense of camaraderie as we prepare to taste each other's creations. Amidst the collective "mmm"s and "yum"s, we take a moment to share ideas on how to customize each recipe to suit individual preferences, all while staying within the healthy standards we've been exploring in our classes. It's a collaborative effort, and the exchange of culinary wisdom is invaluable, and so much fun!
Looking Ahead
As we polish off the last of the brownie crumbs and savor the final drops of soup, we shift our focus to what lies ahead. With eager minds and satisfied palates, we mentally prepare for our next lesson. The room buzzes with anticipation as we discuss and choose which recipes to tackle next, eager to embark on another culinary adventure.
In the end, our cooking class isn't just about recipes; it's about building community and connection, exploring the art of healthy cooking, and savoring the pleasures of coming together to enjoy a homemade meal.
Join us on this journey, and you'll discover that the kitchen is not just a place to cook; it's a place for family and friends to connect, learn, and grow!
Upcoming Classes
10 Tips for Adults; RSU24 Adult Ed in Sullivan; Tuesdays and Thursdays, September 26 - October 5, 2023, 11 a.m. to noon. Click here for more info and to register.
10 Tips for Adults; Deer Isle Adult and Community Education, DIS Elementary School Room 105; Wednesdays, September 13 - October 4, 2023, 4 to 5 p.m.
We can't wait to see you there! Join us in exploring the joy of cooking, eating, and living well.
Are you looking for ways to stretch your food budget and create healthy and delicious meals at home? Our SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educators can help you gain the skills and confidence to create meals your family will love while also making the most of your time and budget.
Healthy Acadia’s Maine SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educators offer year-round cooking and nutrition classes in partnership with schools and organizations throughout Hancock and Washington counties. To learn more or schedule a class, contact Mandy or Shannon in Washington County, and Isi or Lizzie in Hancock County.