Living Greene - February 4

What are we talking about? Cooking Demonstrations

Where and who? Thrifty Foods Cooking and Lifestyle Centre at Tuscany Village, 1626 McKenzie. 250-483-1222

Can ya dig it? Thrifty Foods offers cooking classes (including culinary knowledge like knife skills) and wellness and lifestyle seminars out of a custom-built demonstration centre at their Tuscany Village location. Through the use of interactive instruction, demonstrations and hands-on practice, you can learn alongside other food enthusiasts and glean knowledge from local and visiting chefs on a variety of topics each month. By informing and educating people in a relaxed and intimate environment, the hope is that a broad, informal culinary education can inspire any modern person (or family).

Would I do it again? On my own visit to the centre, I was lucky enough to land a spot with Ned Bell, Kelowna restaurateur and host of It’s Just Food on the Food Network. Over the course of the three-and-a-half-hour session, eight of us indulged in the creation of a three-course meal, as well as the teaching Ned provided. Given that we were a small group, we had a chance to interact with him directly and ask questions relating to the menu as he was preparing it (and of a general culinary nature, of course) in a comfortable and encouraging setting. Ned was fantastic at making eye contact and addressing us to make sure everyone understood his explanations and how the material could be adapted for a variety of menu items. After an incredibly delicious meal and a lively period of discussion with my fellow foodies, I left armed with some pro tips and tingling taste buds. These sessions are a great way to liven up your grocery list, pantry, plate and dinner guests.

Got a holistic product or mind/body/spirit system for Rachel to try? Drop us a note and she’ll give it a Greene go in a future column.