I left my first-ever Fine Food and Dining Society cooking class exactly as any foodie should – nursing a glorious food baby and with a smile on my face. Wednesday’s class was American comfort food-themed, and considering that I had an essay due earlier that day, this was a match made in heaven.
The menu included everything a deadline-crazed student could wish for: during the two hour session we made collard greens, cornbread, chili, the obligatory mac and cheese, and New York cheesecake. Feeling hungry and inspired? Check out this Spoon-approved mac and cheese recipe!
Photo by Kata Vass
The Fine Food girls’ expertise certainly did not disappoint. Not only was the cheesecake one of the most delicious I’ve ever had (from someone with a mild cheesecake addiction, that’s saying a lot), they also took the time to explain handy tips for replicating the recipes at home, such as how to make the perfect roux for mac and cheese. They even introduced us to a few interesting twists to recipes. Best thing I learned: adding beer to your chili makes a completely new flavour experience.
I felt a bit nervous about attending the event without any friends. However, once I arrived I realised I didn’t need to worry. Everyone was incredibly friendly and approachable. Soon after exchanging names, we began exchanging funny anecdotes and giving each other tips from recipes to try, to Honours modules to take next year.
The Fine Food committee also made excellent hosts. Not only were they incredibly helpful when I got lost on my way to the venue (#SpoonTip: there are two Episcopal churches in St Andrews, and the cooking classes are held at the one across from Regs, NOT on North Castle Street), but were also great at organising the event and getting everyone to interact. Though the class lasted two hours, the food we made was staggered perfectly throughout the session. The moment we felt a little tired, the pot of chili was ready to give us an energy boost to carry on.
Photo by Kata Vass
The afternoon I spent with the Fine Food and Dining Society was definitely a great one. Not only was the food we prepared delicious, I also got to meet some really lovely people and leave with snazzy new cooking tips. If you are keen to experience the same, you are in luck. Fine Food has an incredibly active events calendar, and if their next chocolate tasting class is anything to go by, you don’t want to miss out!