The Teaching Kitchen
The Exploration Commons Teaching Kitchen provides the community with creative and educational ways to connect through food.
Together we engage in experiences, programs, and hands-on classes to gain skills and confidence in the kitchen, both personally and professionally. We provide fundamental cooking classes, nutrition and health education, and workforce development opportunities for everyone in the community.
Our Approach to Food
Staff and guest presenters encourage curiosity of new cooking techniques and global cuisines to cultivate positive food experiences. We highlight accessible and affordable foods so participants feel empowered to recreate the recipes at home.
Our Approach to Community
We create programs to serve community members of all ages and local organizations. We foster respect of others and all food cultures by providing diverse and inclusive instruction.
Upcoming Classes and Programs
Exploration Commons
Friday, December 5, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on class, we will prepare and taste some plant-based dishes that are perfect for the holiday season.
Exploration Commons
Monday, December 8, 2025 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Break out the butter! Join us in the Teaching Kitchen to bake three classic holiday cookies: Pecan Snowballs, Peanut Butter Blossoms, and Chocolate Midnight Cookies.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, December 13, 2025 - 10:30am - 11:30am
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this class, each pair will make a pot of hot and hearty fish stew. This is an easy and quick way to make fish and is a great source of vitamin B12, niacin, and protein. We will enjoy our lunch together with a side of crusty bread. Each registration is for TWO participants.
Exploration Commons
Monday, December 15, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learn a traditional custard recipe incorporating coconut, egg whites, and whipping cream. Come make a yummy pie for your upcoming holiday parties.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, December 16, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on class, participants will learn to make Shakshuka, a North African and Middle Eastern dish of eggs simmered in a rich tomato and pepper sauce. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, December 17, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Customize your own gift box design on our Epilog Fusion Pro Engraver. Participants will create their own designs using images and text in Adobe Illustrator. You will leave with a beautifully engraved gift box, perfect for any occasion. No previous experience is necessary, and laser certification is not required.
This will be a two-part project. Part 1 will be in the EC Teaching Kitchen making and decorating gingerbread cookies. Part 2 will be in the EC Makerspace to engrave your gift box.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, December 18, 2025 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Customize your own gift box design on our Epilog Fusion Pro Engraver. Participants will create their own designs using images and text in Adobe Illustrator. You will leave with a beautifully engraved gift box, perfect for any occasion. No previous experience is necessary, and laser certification is not required.
This will be a two-part project. Part 1 will be in the EC Teaching Kitchen making and decorating gingerbread cookies. Part 2 will be in the EC Makerspace to engrave your gift box.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, December 18, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Break out the butter! Join us in the Teaching Kitchen to bake three classic holiday cookies: Pecan Snowballs, Peanut Butter Blossoms, and Chocolate Midnight Cookies.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, December 20, 2025 - 1:30pm - 3:45pm
Ages: 6 - 18
Registration and more information
Join us for a hands-on baking class! We’ll learn how to make delicious soft pretzels and a honey mustard dipping sauce to go with them.
This class is designed for groups of up to four participants and must include:
- At least one child aged 6–18
- At least one adult
- The remaining two spots in the group may be filled by additional participants aged 6 or older or left unfilled.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, December 23, 2025 - 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on class, participants will make two festive favorites: spiced bar nuts and peppermint bark. Both are simple, delicious, and perfect for gifting—or keeping all to yourself!
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, December 30, 2025 - 1:00pm - 3:15pm
Ages: 6 - 18
Registration and more information
Join us for a hands-on baking class! We’ll learn how to make delicious soft pretzels and a honey mustard dipping sauce to go with them.
This class is designed for groups of up to four participants and must include:
- At least one child aged 6–18
- At least one adult
- The remaining two spots in the group may be filled by additional participants aged 6 or older or left unfilled.