We kicked off the day with a presentation and discussion on the Mediterranean culture, lifestyle, and diet. Stephanie explained many of the features of the region, including the vast landscape (a popular tourist destination, to say the least) and the architecture. We also can't forget the ever so popular Mediterranean diet - famous for being "heart-healthy". It emphasizes legumes, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and limited meat and sweets... a trend that seemed to follow with the days recipes!
Before the campers were able to sample some of the different types of olive oil, Allison talked about the cuisine and culture in various European countries like Switzerland, Austria, Germany, and France. She also shared with the campers some of her very own stories and pictures from her recent trip to Italy!
It was almost time to hit the kitchen, but Chef had a few surprises in store for the campers first. Adam, Bram, and Caden got the job of demonstrating how to make homemade butter and buttermilk (both used later on for their recipes). And then, the whole camp got to meet Pierre-Adrien, all the way from France via Skype (Hooray for technology and the world wide web!) He explained to us some of the things served for breakfast in his home and served for lunch at school. What a treat to hear first hand about the culture in a different country!
Then it was time to hit the kitchen! Campers scurried back to their stations to get started right away on their recipes. After 3 days, they certainly know the drill now! Campers really got to test their skills today -- for example, making homemade baguettes and pasta, working with phyllo dough, and making perfectly thin and delicious crepes! Everything looked and smelled so good that no one could stay away from 007 Henderson today! Not even Penn State's beloved, Mike the Mailman, who stopped in to help some of the campers finish off their recipes!
We finished off the day with a Muesli demonstration from Jackson, along with the help of his Sous Chef, Chef Corr, while Jess helped the campers put together their chef hats. Prepare for their debut tomorrow, your campers are sure to be cooking in style!
As the week comes to a close, none of us can believe how quickly the Cook Like a Chef! Ethnic Camp 2013 has gone by! Campers have learned so much the past couple of days, and are looking forward to showing off their favorite dishes tomorrow during the reception from 12PM - 1PM in the Foods Lab in 007 Henderson Building. We hope to see you there!
Want to see more photos from today? Click on the linked caption below the photo!!
1 comment:
Maya loves this camp!!!
Post a Comment