Chef's Challenge: Culinary Adventures

Week 1: Kitchen Basics and Safety First

• Objective: Learn essential kitchen skills and safety rules.
• Highlights:
  • Proper knife handling and basic cutting techniques (e.g., chop, dice, slice).
  • Kitchen safety tips: handling hot surfaces, tools, and cleanup.
  • Fun Activity: Create a fruit salad masterpiece using your new knife skills.

Week 2: Building Balanced Plates

• Objective: Explore the basics of nutrition and balanced meals.
• Highlights:
  • Learn about the food groups and how to create a nutritious plate.
  • Discover healthy ingredient swaps for favorite recipes.
  • Fun Activity: Build colorful, balanced wrap sandwiches or grain bowls.

Week 3: Exploring Flavors Around the World

• Objective: Discover global cuisines and flavor profiles.
• Highlights:
  • Explore spices, herbs, and ingredients from different cultures.
  • Learn how flavors work together to create delicious dishes.
  • Fun Activity: Cook a simple dish inspired by international cuisine, like tacos, stir-fry, or pasta.

Weeks 4-5: Creative Cooking Challenges

• Objective: Work as a team to tackle exciting culinary challenges.
• Highlights:
  • Learn how to adapt recipes and think creatively in the kitchen.
  • Use mystery ingredients to create unique dishes.
  • Fun Activity: Participate in a “Chopped”-style challenge using a surprise basket of ingredients.

Weeks 6-7: Designing Signature Dishes

• Objective: Create your very own signature dish.
• Highlights:
  • Plan and design a dish that represents your personality and taste.
  • Learn how to plate food beautifully for presentation.
  • Fun Activity: Prepare and present your signature dish to the class.

Week 8: Master Chef Showcase

• Objective: Celebrate your skills and share your creations.
• Highlights:
  • Work in teams to prepare a group meal for a “Chef’s Table” event.
  • Present your dishes to friends, family, and peers.
  • Celebrate success with your award certificate and a tasting party!

*Note: Course outline subject to change based on grade level of students and prior knowledge of students--we believe in providing a truly differentiated learning environment!*