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, November 30, 2022 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Get started preparing holiday gifts from the kitchen. Join the University of Maryland Extension for hands-on experience with preparing and water-bath canning jams and jellies.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, December 1, 2022 - 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Impress your family and friends with these delicious bite-size treats. Recipes in this demo class will include baked cranberry brie, bacon-wrapped blue cheese stuffed dates, and crab and lobster stuffed mushrooms.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, December 3, 2022 - 10:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 10 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join guest presenters Diana Almodovar and Javier Toro as we make traditional Puerto Rican recipes in time for the holidays! In this hands-on class, we will prepare non-alcoholic coquito, empanadas de yuca, and yuca en escabeche, which are sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering. Children ages 10 - 14 are welcome to attend with a registered adult.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, December 6, 2022 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join guest Chef Anthony Gerald and Ashley Gerald, of Collision Course, a southern-inspired restaurant coming soon to downtown Westminster! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn the secrets to making delicious egg rolls along with flavorful dipping sauces.
Exploration Commons
Friday, December 9, 2022 - 10:30am - 12:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
The holidays can be a stressful time, surrounded by all sorts of tasty temptations. How can we fully enjoy holiday treats without guilt? Learn techniques to reduce stress and fully immerse yourself in a food experience that will leave you feeling more satisfied with your food choices. We will make a tasty treat to test out what you learned! This program is in partnership with Tevis Center for Wellness, Carroll Hospital.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, December 10, 2022 - 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Warm up from the cold with this makerspace/kitchen class! We’ll use design software and our Fusion Pro Laser Cutter to engrave custom designs on mugs. Then, head to the kitchen for a hot chocolate tasting.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, December 14, 2022 - 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Taste the major tea types and learn to steep the perfect cup of tea.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, December 14, 2022 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on class, we will prepare Asian-styled steamed buns and dumplings, along with tasty dipping sauces.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, December 17, 2022 - 10:00am - 1:00pm
Ages:
More information
We're celebrating our one-year anniversary in Exploration Commons! Stop by any time between 10am-1pm to interact with customers who have created projects and learned new software in our makerspace. Nearly 20 makers will have tables set up in our Large Meeting Room where attendees can see their projects, chat about their experiences in Exploration Commons, and even do some holiday shopping. Several presenters will sell holiday goods at their table!
We will have raffles every hour for attendees that include free program vouchers and handmade goods from our makerspace.
Purchase some stocking stuffers from our teaching kitchen like chocolate dipped pretzels. Donate at our Spice Drive during your visit (donate spices for our local food banks and shelters).
Exploration Commons
Saturday, December 17, 2022 - 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Ages: 6 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on baking class, we’ll make molten chocolate lava cakes and hot cocoa. One registration per family, up to four people. For families with children ages 6 and up; children must be accompanied by an adult.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, December 22, 2022 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Celebrate National Date Nut Bread Day by baking two mini loaves of delicious date nut bread.