Chef Tricia Wheeler loves to cook. A graduate of the French Culinary Institute of New York, and the founder of Edible Columbus magazine, she not only relishes the opportunity to make something out of nothing, but she wants to show others how to do the same as well.
So she created the Seasoned Farmhouse, a year-round recreational cooking and gardening school with seasonal courses in everything from creating a perfect Spring supper, to identifying different varieties of hops and grains, to mastering the art of puff pastry.
“I wanted to share what I learned with home cooks in my community and make a place where we can learn from each other,” Wheeler states. “It makes me really happy to see people become more confident and realize that if you start with great ingredients, you can make simple, delicious meals.”
There are classes for everyone, and they’re designed seasonally, so courses will vary. The amateur can learn about gardening basics and home pickling, while more experienced cooks can try their hands at cheese making. For the serious culinarians, The Seasoned Farmhouse offers the Etoile Series, a 40-week curriculum for those who want the French Culinary experience.
In addition to Chef Wheeler, participants can expect to be taught by several local professionals, as well as visiting chef authors from around the country. The goal of these series is to not only show people of all skill levels the importance of the relationship between the kitchen and the garden, but to inspire them to start their own garden, or expand on the one they currently have.
“I have so many friends who didn’t grow up learning to cook, who struggle to plan meals and master their kitchens,” Wheeler explains. “I hope [folks] have fun and are inspired to try new things… and learn skills they can use for a lifetime.”
Seasonal classes begin May 8th, and space is limited, so make your reservation early. The Seasoned Farmhouse is located at 3674 North High Street in Clintonville, and its space and talents are also available for private and corporate events, so visit www.theseasonedfarmhouse.com. Classes typically run at $45 per person, a small investment for generations worth of expertise.
Photos by Pam Reece.