Cooking classes and workshops to check out this winter

The London Chef in person cooking classes at Sea Cider Farmhouse. Instagram

Winter is a good time to explore the culinary arts. With shorter days and cooler temperatures, what better way to beat the winter blues than by learning to make hearty dishes, baked goods, experimenting with new cuisines, or perfecting comfort food classics? Beyond the practical skills, cooking classes are also a great way to bond with friends, meet like-minded foodies, or simply enjoy some me-time doing something meaningful.

This winter, treat yourself to the joy of creating delicious meals while staying warm and inspired. Check out some of the exciting cooking classes and workshops happening soon, and if none of the classes listed here work for your schedule, most of the organizers offer private classes as well. 

European cooking classes at The London Chef

The London Chef, led by chef Dan Hayes, offers a variety of cooking classes both in person and online. The in-person cooking classes are held at various pop-up locations throughout the city. These sessions provide hands-on culinary experiences and cover a range of cuisines and techniques, making them suitable for cooks of all skill levels. For those who prefer to learn from the comfort of their own homes, The London Chef also offers live online cooking classes. Participants receive a list of equipment and ingredients prior to the class, ensuring they are well-prepared to cook along with the chef in real-time. The ingredients are typically accessible from major grocery stores, and for residents of Victoria, there's an option to have ingredients delivered directly to their door for an additional fee. These virtual classes accommodate various time zones, allowing individuals from different regions to join. Here are some of the classes coming up in February. 

French Bistro Cooking Class on Feb. 4: Participants will learn to prepare pomme persillade, a rustic red wine-braised chicken, sautéed kale, and crêpes Suzette. The evening begins at Sea Cider Farm with a guided cider tasting featuring three of Sea Cider's award-winning ciders. Following the tasting, attendees will engage in a hands-on cooking session, preparing the meal under the guidance of the chef and enjoying their dinner afterwards at a long-table harvest dinner overlooking the orchard. The class is designed to be interactive and educational, providing insights into traditional French cuisine and cooking techniques. 

$155 per person

Tuscan Supper Cooking Class on Feb. 25: Attendees will learn to prepare classic prawns Provencale with warm bread, mushroom and thyme risotto accompanied by seared AAA steak, and an arugula salad. This cooking class is held at Sea Cider Farm and the class begins with a guided cider tasting featuring three of Sea Cider's award-winning ciders. Following the tasting, guests engage in a hands-on cooking session, preparing the meal under the guidance of the chef. After cooking, participants enjoy their creations during a long-table harvest dinner overlooking the orchard. The class is designed to be interactive and educational, providing insights into traditional Italian cuisine and cooking techniques. 

$155 per person

Spanish Tapas Cooking Class on Feb. 26: This class is held at Sea Cider Farm and as the other classes, it begins with a guided cider tasting featuring three of Sea Cider's award-winning ciders. Following the tasting, attendees engage in a hands-on cooking session, preparing a variety of classic tapas dishes, including prawns sautéed with chili and garlic, tortilla española, mushrooms with sherry vinegar and fresh herbs, and chicken with smoked paprika and almonds under the guidance of the chef. After cooking, participants enjoy their food at a long-table harvest dinner overlooking the orchard. 

$155 per person

Asian fermentation workshops by Island Eko Pantry

The Victoria-based company has been offering Asian fermentation workshops and cooking classes using seasonal and local foods since 2021. Many of their workshops are sold out but keep an eye on new dates as they open from time to time.

Gimbap Workshop on Feb. 23: Participants will learn the art of making gimbap, a popular Korean dish consisting of rice and various fillings rolled in seaweed. The session will cover techniques for preparing and assembling gimbap, as well as insights into its cultural significance. The workshop is at Uchida Eatery downtown and a welcome drink and lunch will be provided. For more information or to inquire about availability, you can contact Island Eko Pantry at [email protected].

$80 per person