If you fancy improving your culinary skills or need a gift idea, we’ve whipped up the best cooking courses to make you feel like a chef…
Work and busy lives can often mean we don’t get to eat the food we want. If you’re in a mid-week dinner rut, are tired of boiling up pasta (let’s be honest, it’s everyone’s go-to for a quick fix), or simply need some inspiration, then book your seat at one of the region’s leading cookery classes.
A taste of Asia in Norwich
There’s no passport or travelling necessary to discover the flavours of Asia, simply visit Love Norwich Food. Whether you love the aromas or want to try and recreate a dish from a much-loved holiday, owner Zena can help. The professional chef, tutor and blogger has 30 years’ experience so you will be in good hands. Learn how to master your favourite cuisine including Thai, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Asian street food and dim sum! You certainly won’t go hungry. All ingredients and recipes are provided, and there’s plenty to take away.
Classes take place at Lodge Farm in Bawburgh, and start from £32 per person for a group of six. Themed classes for two, family sessions, corporate and adult parties are also available, plus additional cuisines, with vegetarian and vegan options. To book visit www.lovenorwichfood.co.uk/cookery-courses
French fancy in Hertfordshire
If there’s one thing the French do well, it’s food! And where better to learn the art of cooking than from one of France’s best loved chefs. Jean-Christophe Novelli’s Academy is located in the village of Tea Green in Hertfordshire and offers a number of courses headed up by the man himself. Courses include a masterclass, fish and seafood, French classics and patisserie and desserts. New for this year is the ‘5 Day Dinner Plan’, priced £199, where you’ll learn to cook up some quick and healthy recipes.
Classes are pricey starting from £350 but they are restricted to a minimum of six people so you’ll have the chef’s full attention. Resident chefs also offer cooking sessions specialising in worldwide cuisine. Tuck in at www.jeanchristophenovelli.com
Out of the sea in Essex
Have you ever been stumped at the fish counter and not sure what to order? If you love fish and seafood but find the shells and bones a challenge when it comes to cooking, dive into the Mersea Island Cookery School in Essex. With views of the Blackwater Estuary, it’s the perfect location to master fish dishes. Classes use fresh local produce and you’ll learn how to select and prepare fish.
During the session from 10am to 3pm, you will cook up a three course lunch which will be enjoyed at the end of the day. There’s also other themes such as Greek, Spanish tapas, Easter bread, afternoon tea and vegetarian flavours to name a few. Book at www.merseaislandcookeryschool.co.uk
Indian Cookery Class in Cambridgeshire
Indian is one of Britain’s best loved takeaways, but if you’d rather cook up spicy dishes at home, learn how to do so at Bibi’s Cookery Classes in Ely. The aromatic smell of Indian cuisine is a feast for the senses. Learn how to replicate those warming aromas and colours with either the beginners or Indian cooking party course, or simply request which dishes you’d like to cook. One to one, couples, half and full day courses are available. Sign up at www.cambridgecookingclasses.co.uk/#indian
Learn how to BBQ in Suffolk
If you’re planning a summer BBQ and want to impress your guests, then visit The Food Hub Cookery School at Kenton Hall Estate in Suffolk. The school offers range of themed classes but in the lead up to summer have a focus on BBQ classics, techniques, grilling and American and Asian inspired dishes.
Part of the Weber Grill Academy, you’ll use Weber’s lid on-technique on both charcoal and gas barbecues, cooking up sizzling sausages, juicy cheeseburgers and beer can roast chicken. Let’s just hope we have a repeat of last summer’s heatwave so you can show off your new found skills! www.kentonhallestate.co.uk/food-hub-cookery-school
