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
Peach Melba Galette with Brown Sugar Crust
Monday, August 31, 2026 - 5:00pm - 7:00pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
In this hands-on class, we will make a simple but delicious rustic pie with a brown sugar crust and a fresh sweet peach and raspberry filling. Served warm, we will top it off with a freshly made spiced whipped cream.
Easy Salmon Bowls
Wednesday, September 2, 2026 - 1:00pm - 2:30pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
In this hands-on class, you'll learn how to perfectly cook salmon, prepare fresh toppings, and create a balanced meal that's easy to customize at home.
Beef and Broccoli Stir-fry
Wednesday, September 2, 2026 - 5:30pm - 7:00pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Learn how to make a quick and flavorful beef and broccoli stir-fry that is perfect for busy weeknights. In this hands-on class, you'll prepare a recipe that is faster than ordering take-out and tastes even better.
Pairs Cook: Asian-American Takeout Favorites
Friday, September 4, 2026 - 10:30am - 12:30pmAges: 10 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Duos! Join us for an Asian-American feast! Each registration is for one DUO team, which must include at least one adult over age 18. Duos will work to make one traditional takeout favorite, which will be shared buffet-style at the end for all to enjoy:
- Crab Rangoons
- Chicken Lo Mein
- Shrimp Fried Rice
- Orange Chicken and White Rice
- American Chinese Buffet Donuts
- Chinese-style Garlic Green Beans
Beef and Broccoli Stir-fry
Tuesday, September 8, 2026 - 2:00pm - 3:30pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Learn how to make a quick and flavorful beef and broccoli stir-fry that is perfect for busy weeknights. In this hands-on class, you'll prepare a recipe that is faster than ordering take-out and tastes even better.
Cooking Tech: Whisk Assessment Prompting and Plating
Wednesday, September 9, 2026 - 1:30pm - 3:30pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Learn all about cooking with AI!
Are you ready for some friendly cooking competition?
After a presentation on cooking with AI, two teams of eight will face off to compare AI vs. traditional recipes and techniques.
Each team will prepare two recipes from a mystery basket of ingredients to present to a panel of judges. We'll taste and score each dish and compare the results.
Presented in partnership with Molly Sherman, Executive Director, Carroll Technology & Innovation Council.
Easy Salmon Bowls
Thursday, September 10, 2026 - 10:30am - 12:00pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
In this hands-on class, you'll learn how to perfectly cook salmon, prepare fresh toppings, and create a balanced meal that's easy to customize at home.
Baking Basics: Apple Crisp with Caramel Sauce
Friday, September 11, 2026 - 1:30pm - 3:00pmAges: 16 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Celebrate the flavors of fall in this hands-on baking class featuring a cozy homemade apple crisp topped with a rich caramel sauce. Learn how to choose the best apples for baking, create the perfect buttery cinnamon oat topping, and make a smooth caramel drizzle from scratch. Whether you love baking or just love autumn desserts, you'll leave with a couple of cozy seasonal recipes perfect for sharing all season long.