Global Kitchen Adventures: A Sweet Success with Baklava!

Led by the enthusiastic volunteer Debbie Adams and assisted by FCS Agent Kelly Alsip, the recent Global Kitchen Adventures Baklava class was a delightful success. The class not only provided participants with valuable culinary skills but also immersed them in the rich history and cultural significance of this beloved Middle Eastern pastry.

Debbie, a seasoned cook with a passion for sharing her knowledge, expertly guided the class through the intricate process of making Baklava. Kelly, with her expertise in food safety and nutrition, ensured that participants learned best practices for handling ingredients and preparing food safely.

The class began with a fascinating presentation on the history and origin of Baklava, tracing its roots back centuries across various cultures in the Middle East and beyond. This historical context added depth to the culinary experience, allowing participants to appreciate the cultural significance of the dish they were about to create.

As the class progressed, participants eagerly followed Debbie's instructions, carefully layering phyllo dough, meticulously distributing nuts, and delicately pouring the sweet syrup. Throughout the process, Debbie and Kelly patiently answered questions, offered helpful tips, and encouraged participants to experiment with their creative flair.

The result? A room filled with the enticing aroma of warm, flaky Baklava, and a sense of accomplishment among the participants.

"So much fun! Such a relaxing and friendly atmosphere for learning! Thanks so much!" exclaimed one participant.

"Thank you for offering this class. Can't wait to make this at home!" echoed another.

The positive feedback was overwhelming. 90% of participants reported an improvement in their Baklava-making skills and knowledge, while 88% felt their understanding of food safety practices had increased. An impressive 95% of participants expressed confidence in preparing Baklava at home after the class.

Beyond the culinary skills, the class had a broader impact. A remarkable 98% of attendees indicated that the class would encourage them to explore new cuisines. Moreover, all participants expressed an interest in utilizing the local Farmer's Market.

While the overall feedback was highly positive, a few suggestions for future classes emerged:

• Clearer Timing: Participants requested an estimated finish time for better planning.
• Reduced Distractions: Some participants suggested minimizing classroom chatter during instruction.
• Interactive Learning: One suggestion was to pause the class during demonstrations for better understanding.

The success of the Baklava class underscores the value of the Global Kitchen Adventures program. By combining culinary instruction with cultural insights and fostering a supportive learning environment, the program empowers individuals to expand their culinary horizons, enhance their cooking skills, and connect with the diverse world of food.