Gleaming faces surround the island work counter.  Some are standing on the floor; others are standing on the seat of a folding chair so they can be above the counter. Each child has claimed a section for their own work station as we review the recipe together. Ingredients are laid out in front of them, and utensils beside them.  Yes, it’s that time again: Bixby Mini Chefs are in session. Cooking is a wonderful opportunity to weave in together all of the STEAM themes. {Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math}.  Handling food, preparing and creating food encourages lively conversation and tactile experience. We introduce kitchen safety and respect while working in a crowded kitchen. We measure, mix, blend, beat, sauté, bake, level, chop, slice, dice, cube, create a roux, a paste, an icing, a sauce. And we taste: is it sweet, savory, salty, spicy, buttery, pasty, smooth, chunky, or soupy?

Mini Chefs are between the ages of 6-9. Children who are younger than 8 year of age must have a parent accompany them.  Parents in general have enjoyed staying with their child and cooking together. We meet for two and a half hours.  This year the chefs have 2 sessions with three classes each: Baking and Comfort Food. Each Chef is responsible for their utensils and ingredients.

Last week we made Chicken Pot Pies.  Knife skills were taught, measuring was important, and we learned how to make a roux.  Patience and watchfulness were encouraged at the stove and oven.  Everyone went home with a huge 9” hot and fragrant Chicken Pot Pie for their dinner that night.   

Watch for the Mini Chef Series again in the fall of 2019, the classes fill up fast! Bon Appetit!