We will make Chinese dumplings with pork filling made from scratch in class. You will learn the multiple styles of folding dumplings using wonton wrappers. Then we will boil the won ton to make a classic wonton soup or chili oil wonton. Additionally, we’ll learn to make our own Sichuan-style chili oil and learn about other common Chinese condiments used for dipping sauces. All ingredients, materials, equipment and recipes will be provided. [Plant-based ground meat can be substituted for the pork upon request. The dumpling wrappers include gluten.] Program is presented by Jeff Mao of Knead & Nosh in Topsham, ME.

Join our immersive cooking class where you’ll learn the time-honored secrets behind New York’s iconic bagels. In this hands-on experience, you’ll craft your own bagel dough from scratch, knead it to perfection, and master the art of hand-rolling. As the dough transforms into those chewy, golden rings, we’ll guide you through the traditional boiling and baking process—the very same steps that make Brooklyn bagels legendary. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious food enthusiast, this class promises a delightful journey into bagel bliss. All ingredients, materials, equipment and recipes will be provided. [Bagels contain gluten] Program is presented by Jeff Mao of Knead & Nosh in Topsham, ME.

Have you ever wanted to try canning, but were unsure how to get started? Or perhaps you are concerned about food safety, and wondering how to ensure that your canned food is both delicious and safe. Well, this is the class for you! Join Allison Carroll Duffy, Master Food Preserver and cookbook author, for this hands-on workshop covering all that you need to know to get started canning your own food. We'll cover the basics of safe home canning, including proper procedures, techniques, and use of tools and equipment. Then we’ll learn hands-on--working together as a group and going step-by-step--to make and can a big batch of jam. We’ll use the boiling water bath method, which is the same method you’ll use for making many other canned goods you might want to make at home, including pickles, salsas, chutneys, and fruit. While this class will focus primarily on the boiling water bath method of canning, pressure canning will also be discussed. At the end of the class, there will be plenty of jam to taste, and each participant will go home with a jar of jam to enjoy…as well as all the know-how you need to start canning confidently at home!

In this one night class we will learn how to mix, knead, proof and shape yeast dough into both savory and sweet treats. Participants will learn how to create cloverleaf rolls, butter crescents, cinnamon swirls, tea rings, sticky caramel rolls and whole-wheat buns as well as an economical savory braid that is a crowd pleaser. You will learn what gluten is really about! Various yeast bread tricks will be shared and discussed. Each student will go home with samples warm as well as dough to bake later at home. All baking levels are welcome for this hands-on class. Bring an apron, and some plastic tubs/large bags to fill and take home. All materials included.

Learn the fundamentals of making Chinese dumplings at home. You will learn to make fresh scratch-made dough, and roll your own wrappers, and how to fold and pleat them using pork filling. We will then water-fry/steam the dumplings to create this restaurant favorite—pot sticker dumplings. Additionally, you will learn to make your own ginger-scallion oil and the instructor will talk about other common Chinese condiments used for dipping sauces. All ingredients, materials, equipment and recipes will be provided. [Plant-based ground meat can be substituted for the pork upon request. The dumpling wrappers include gluten.] Program is presented by Jeff Mao of Knead & Nosh in Topsham, ME.

In this one night class we will learn basics of candy making including quick amazing toffee, no fail fudge, no bake haystack cookies and coconut balls that mimic Raffaello candy! Bring a container to take home what you do not eat on the spot. Class size limited. All supplies included in cost. Bring a friend and have a sweet night out!

Learn how to cook the popular Thai street food dish, Pad Thai, using ingredients which can easily be purchased at your local supermarket. We’ll cook, eat, listen to authentic Thai music, and ensure you have some Pad Thai left to take home with you! We may also have time to cook some "Tom Yum Kung" (sweet and sour soup with spicy chicken or shrimp). Join us for this special one-night workshop. All materials included.

Join wildlife photographer Jonathan Lavan and cooking instructor Chris Toy for a fantastic weekend of photography and food. The retreat happens on the shores of Merrymeeting Bay in the Butler Head Nature Preserve. Come prepared for some nature walks with your cameras and hands on cooking lessons. A limited number of AirBNB style overnight accommodations with shared bathrooms are available. Contact Chris Toy at christoy.net@gmail.com FMI. Instructors for the weekend are: Jonathan Lavan, citizen scientist, wildlife expert, and SCUBA Diver has been a teacher, photographer and research associate for many organizations. Chris Toy, cooking instructor, Maine Guide, and author of 6 popular Asian themed cookbooks has been teaching for community education programs, local kitchen stores, and privately for 3 decades. *There is a $25.00 non-refundable fee for cancellations.