Athens gears up for Taste of Home Cooking School

Special to the Review

January 21, 2008 09:31 am

— Meet Taste of Home Cooking School culinary specialist Jamie Dunn. Dunn conducts cooking schools throughout the U.S.
In an average year, Dunn can put 40,000 miles on her car traveling to towns such as Athens to share her passion for cooking with people just like you.
The Taste of Home Cooking School “Swing Into Spring” show will be held Feb. 28 at the Cain Center with doors opening at 4:30 p.m. The show is being presented by Cole Air Conditioning and Appliance, the Athens Daily Review, Athens Chamber of Commerce and the Cedar Creek Pilot.
“Balancing the travel schedule and my personal life can definitely be a challenge, but it’s worth it to see the excitement people share for cooking,” Dunn said.
Dunn had a few thoughts to share:
What’s the No. 1 thing to keep in mind when cooking?
“I always say cooking should be enjoyable first and foremost! If you’re not having fun in the kitchen, try changing things up a bit. When I get into a cooking slump, I always try a new recipe, something that is out of the ordinary for me to prepare. I also make sure it’s something that makes my mouth water! I figure if my mouth is watering, I must be excited to cook it!”
What are some handy helpers you keep in your kitchen?
“For preparation I find it helpful to have a sharp chef’s knife, various cutting mats, heat-resistant spatulas and skillets with tight-fitting lids. I also keep a variety of things on hand for after the meal – inevitably, I always wind up with leftovers! So I keep an assortment of different-sized plastic bags and plastic storage containers to fill with leftovers. One helpful trick I’ve found is to fill a few smaller containers with the leftovers and freeze them. They make very convenient lunches on busy days!”
What’s your favorite recipe you’ll be preparing at the show?
“Well, honestly, I love them all! However, if I had to choose a favorite, it would be the Chocolate Almond Dessert Crepes — they are sweet and satisfying. They also have chocolate, which I love!”
What’s your favorite part of the cooking school experience?
“I think the energy of the room is my favorite. It’s so encouraging to see people as passionate about cooking as I am!”
Dunn said she is looking forward to coming to Athens.
“We’re expecting a pretty large turnout, so get there early to find seats,” said Andi Green, Athens Review advertising director. For more information contact Green at the Athens Review at 903-675-5626.