Expand your horizons and learn to master the art of cooking meat on the barbecue. No more dry, plain, raw, overcooked or stringy barbecues. After this class, you will have the know-how to present juicy flavoursome meats and also some simple side dishes. This class is designed for not only the novice, but also the bbq cook who wants to hone their skills. Your partner will be so proud of you.    

I will be presenting a menu inspired by my visit to Vietnam. Dishes will be my own interpretations of flavours experienced from Ho Chi Minh in the south to Hanoi in the north. Vietnamese cuisine has been influenced by the Chinese, Thai, Indian and French cuisines, so expect some exciting combinations of fresh flavours, twists from authentic dishes and some presentations to woo your guests. 

Recent drastic weather conditions in Australia will affect produce supply this autumn/winter. Therefore, this 3 course menu will be drawn from my personal list of favourite recipes which can be adapted to suit produce availability. This class will not include recipes from previous classes. Big question:  How will I ever choose from my long, long list of faves??!!

This class will provide your child with inspiration, knowledge and hands-on experience of cooking dishes for friends and family. They will be advised on product knowledge, safety and hygiene, basic cooking skills, the importance of healthy food and the first steps of entertaining.  Age groups: 10-14 years and 15-17. Please note that the menu for both age group classes will be the same.

Students to bring an apron and non-slip shoes.

The colours and spices of this class will take you straight to a Moroccan souk (market) in the heart of the medina. Fragrant spices such as saffron, paprika, cinnamon and ras-el-hanout are balanced with meats, vegetables, couscous, dates, olives and fruits. Learn about the Moroccan styles of cooking and be inspired to cook up your own Moroccan banquet.

Simplicity and flavour at its best! Learn to cook the perfect risotto and together with some jazzy touches (and moves), you will delight your guests with these very social dishes. Serve as an entree, main or as an accompaniment. Helpful tips included.

This class is for the 18-25 age group with both demonstration and hands-on experience. Instruction will be given on cooking techniques, product knowledge, safety and hygiene and confidence to cook up a nutritious meal using fresh produce. No more excuses for junk food!

Students to bring an apron and non-slip shoes.

This is a repeat tour.

Spend a day out with fellow foodies and visit some sites with a touch of Masterchef.  Meet the cake king, Adriano Zumbo in his commercial kitchen – his sweet masterpieces are a source of amazement (and delicious).  Visit Herbie’s Spices, provider of spices for the Masterchef tv series.  Opportunities to purchase quality produce and cooking equipment, deliciously gorgeous samples, a browse through Danks Street, Waterloo to see old and new retailers and provedores and a  gourmet seasonal banquet style lunch provided at Bird Cow Fish and prepared by Alex Herbert, famous for her approach to food and her dish of gnocchi, prawns, capers and sage featured on Masterchef.

Bus leaves Turramurra at 9am and returns at 4.30pm.

I’m off to France this year to visit rellies in a little village within an hour of Cahors and Toulouse, home of the famous Victor Hugo Markets. This region is famous for its duck dishes. Learn to cook succulent duck breast and duck Maryland with accompaniments inspired by my visits to local markets and dining with locals. This class will also include a French dessert. Ooh la la!

Adelaide is my old stomping ground. As a child, I remember my parents walking me through the Adelaide Central Markets. The markets were so enticing with wafts of fresh bread, freshly smoked Continental smallgoods, ripe peaches and hot nuts. They are still enticing and are my favourite Australian markets.  You will be guided through, tasting along the way. Another highlight of the tour is a trip to Barossa Valley with private wine tastings and a cooking class at Maggie Beer’s kitchen. Also a tour through the picturesque Adelaide Hills which is home to many producers of fruit, cheese and wine and the old German town of Hahndorf.

There is plenty to see and do in Adelaide. Experience the unique bluestone architecture, the pandas at the Adelaide Zoo, the designer pubs, shopping in Rundle Mall, the tram, innovative restaurants using local produce and lots of friendly people.

This is a personalised boutique tour aimed at providing fabulous flavours, comfort and an introduction to much that Adelaide has to offer. Quality apartment accommodation centrally located, 2 meals a day (breakfast of market goodies and gourmet lunch or dinner), private bus tours and river tour, cooking class and a whole lot of good food, good wine and fun.

Ideas galore for entertaining outdoors throughout the holiday season. Have some fun with fresh market produce, summer seafood, meats, fruit and a cheeky summer cocktail!

Invite lots of guests this summer and entertain them with these summery delights. Happy Holidays.