Retailers across the country are getting ready for the holiday season, and that means it’s time to start cooking and baking. This season is the perfect opportunity to try new recipes, meet new people, and improve your culinary skills. Here are some ways to get started:
Online Cooking Groups
If you prefer the convenience of your laptop or tablet, you can join Senior Planet’s Recipes, Cooking & Foodies community, where over 1,400 food enthusiasts share recipes, food suggestions, and helpful tips. Join the community at https://community.seniorplanet.org/
In-person Cooking Groups
International
For those who are more adventurous, consider enrolling in cooking classes abroad. Websites like The International Kitchen and Cooking Vacation offer classes in various countries, allowing you to learn new cuisines while traveling. Additionally, you can find cooking classes closer to home through national chain affiliates and cooking school aggregators like cozymeal.com, OKChef.org, Surlatable.com, and Williams-Sonoma.com.
Local Cooking Groups
If international travel isn’t an option, you can still improve your skills and meet fellow foodies by participating in in-person classes. Websites like cozymeal.com, OKChef.org, Surlatable.com, and Williams-Sonoma.com offer a variety of classes to choose from.
Cooking Group Tipsheet
- Costs: Consider the price range and understand that higher costs may reflect the expertise and resources involved in the class.
- Skill level: Make sure the class is suited to your skill level, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook.
- Food preferences: Check for food preferences and dietary restrictions before signing up for a class.
- Class details: Consider the class size, format, and whether you’ll be able to sample the dishes you prepare.
- Preparation: Practice any unfamiliar cuisines or dishes before attending a class to make the most of the experience.
Joining cooking groups and classes can be a fun and social way to expand your culinary repertoire and connect with like-minded individuals. So, whether it’s online or in-person, get ready to create, share, and enjoy delicious meals with others!
Your Turn
Have you tried a cooking class or group before? What class or group would you like to try? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Nona Aguilar is an award-winning writer of numerous magazine articles and two books. She has also edited four specialty business newsletter publications. Her work has appeared in Ladies Home Journal, Redbook, Family Circle and Cosmopolitan, and in The Business Owner.
