Exploration Commons will be closed Tuesday, April 23, 2024 for a statewide training. We apologize for the inconvenience.
The Teaching Kitchen
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
Wednesday, April 24, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This hands-on class will cover everything you need to know about caring for your knives and how to use them. You'll learn how to chop, dice, and mince and get plenty of practice with other professional cuts. This is a beginner class.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, April 25, 2024 - 11:00am - 12:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Take a trip around the world of coffee! Learn about bean origins, roasting temperatures, and types of grinding to brew the perfect cup of joe! Sample several varieties and evaluate using coffee flavor descriptors.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, April 27, 2024 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 6 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Shape and bake a delicious Cinnamon Star Bread using pre-made dough.
Registration is for one child age 6+ and one adult plus up to two additional attendees per family. Please indicate the attendees' names and the children's ages at registration. One registration per group covers up to four people.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, April 30, 2024 - 10:00am - 1:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learn the basics of dough lamination on day one. On day two, participants will bake croissants and pain au chocolat.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, May 1, 2024 - 10:00am - 1:15pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learn the basics of dough lamination on day one. On day two, participants will bake croissants and pain au chocolat.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 2, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
The Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich is a meal-worthy dish that's over-the-top delicious! Make open-faced sandwiches with thick slices of roasted turkey and fresh tomatoes on top of a thick piece of toasted bread, all smothered in a rich, cheesy mornay sauce, broiled, and topped with crispy bacon. We'll also make a mock mint julep to celebrate the upcoming horse race.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, May 4, 2024 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on class, gain an introductory understanding of wok cooking and learn how to prepare your recipe for the best results. We will prepare a plant-based recipe to practice the new cooking skill.
Exploration Commons
Monday, May 6, 2024 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn to make salads exciting! Join dietitian Dana Mealing in creating nutritious, crave-worthy salads. Go beyond iceberg lettuce with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of cheese – discover the art of vibrant salads that make eating more vegetables easy. This class is provided through The Partnership for a Healthier Carroll County and Carroll Hospital.
Exploration Commons
Monday, May 6, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 6 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a family cooking class to celebrate Cinco de Mayo (one day late) with scratch empanadas!
Registration is for one child age 6+ and one adult plus up to two additional attendees per family. Please indicate the attendees' names and the children's ages at registration. One registration per group of up to four.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, May 8, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Get inspired to add a little creativity to your recipes with a spiralizer. Learn and sample dishes utilizing this fun kitchen tool that can help you add more veggies to your meals or entice reluctant eaters with this novel presentation.
Exploration Commons
Friday, May 10, 2024 - 1:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learn how to make New Orleans-style beignets, the soft and pillowy fried doughnuts covered in powdered sugar. While our dough proofs, we'll make traditional New Orleans-style coffee with chickory.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, May 14, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Turn your Taco Tuesday into a plant-based feast! In this hands-on class, we'll make Vegan Jackfruit Tacos, Guacamole, and Jicama Salad.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, May 15, 2024 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learn how to make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffin Tops. Easy, quick, and delicious!
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 16, 2024 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Create your own fanciful bread art using fresh focaccia dough, veggies, and herbs.