Research shows that people who prepare and cook meals at home are more likely to eat the recommended fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains needed in a balanced diet. Building skills and cooking knowledge increases the likelihood that people choose to prepare home-cooked meals. To encourage more home-prepared meals, the Oldham and Trimble County Extension Office hosted the workshop Savor the Flavor: Using Kitchen Tools and Appliances. The Savor the Flavor program focused on how to use common tools and appliances and simple ways of incorporating them into cooking. Further, information was provided regarding kitchen organization to reduce barriers and stress related to food preparation. Extension developed this lesson as a way to teach people how to make home-prepared meals that are flavorful and exciting. The goal of this program is to increase knowledge about kitchen tools and appliances and increase the likelihood that participants will try new ways to prepare foods and better organize their kitchen spaces. 10 people participated in the workshop Trimble and Oldham County partnered teaching the class in Oldham County during the day and in Trimble in the evening. Of those surveyed, 100% and 100% indicated they better understood how to use tools and appliances and simple ways to use these tools and appliances when cooking, respectively, and 100% stated they increased their level of understanding regarding ways to organize kitchen tools and appliances in their home. Further, 100% expressed the intention to try a new way to prepare foods or add flavor when cooking, while 100% expressed the intention to organize kitchen tools and appliances for easy use and to increase home-prepared meals.

Two participants expressed intentions to get a Cast Iron Skillet. Another participant shared plans to get an air fryer while another participant said that it was helpful in deciding they would not need a Sous Vide.

One participant shared that she is “Excited for the next several classes” in the series.