Cooking Class: The Fundamentals of Modern Sauces

Last Saturday I had the pleasure of attending my very first cooking class. A friend's mother had signed up for the class but could no longer attend, so she asked me if I was interested, of course I was interested! The class took place at the Kitchen Window Cooking School (in Calhoun Square) and was taught by Chef Brian Storey.  I was sort of nervous on my way to the class, I didn't really know what to expect, and I wasn't sure how my skills would compare to others' skills. These classes are taught in groups of six and I was lucky enough to end up in a group that was fun to cook with and had some skill in the kitchen, so my nerves quickly vanished.

Going into the class I also wasn't sure what exactly classified a sauce as modern. I know what the traditional sauces are and learned that everything else is considered a modern sauce. Easy enough. Many sauces were on the night's agenda, but sadly we did not have the time to make them all. Below is a list of all the sauces we planned on making, grouped as the Chef grouped them. We never got to the pestos (although we did make Chimichurri and a Romesco sauce) or the purees and most disappointing to me we never made the Homemade Ketchup - I'll be trying that one at home soon.

Citron vinaigrette, Sherry vinaigrette, Champagne vinaigrette, Balsamic vinaigrette, Thai vinaigrette

Mayonnaise, Green Goddess dressing, Smoked Paprika aioli, Buttermilk Blue Cheese dressing

Tarragon & Shallot sabayon, Hollandaise sauce

Spinach Walnut pesto, Basil pesto, Edamame pesto, Green Bean Hazelnut pesto, Chimichurri, Romesco sauce

Parsnip puree, Carrot puree, Cauliflower & Horseradish puree, Sweet Tomato jam, Homemade Ketchup, Cocktail sauce

White Wine & Dijon pan sauce, Three Peppercorn pan sauce, Peanut-Ginger pan sauce

In the end it was a great experience and I'm glad I went. I learned a bit and had a fun time with complete strangers. The Chef made my night when he said my White Wine & Dijon pan sauce was "outstanding." I think I will go again.