Culinary enthusiasts seeking an immersive French cooking experience won’t want to miss this hands-on course in the heart of the French countryside. Over five days, you will master the art of French cuisine under the expert guidance of Chef Eric, learning essential techniques like butchery, stock-making, and pastry skills. The course promises a unique cultural journey, blending hands-on cooking sessions with local excursions and farm-to-table practices. With delectable meals and comfortable accommodations, this culinary adventure is sure to delight and inspire.
Key Points
- Immersive 5-day French cooking course taught by experienced Chef Eric, focusing on essential techniques like butchery, stocks, sauces, and pastry-making.
- Hands-on program with daily six-course gourmet dinners, emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sourcing local ingredients in a cozy French farmhouse kitchen.
- Comprehensive curriculum covering classic French cooking methods, including butchery, stock-making, saucing, sous vide cooking, pastry doughs, desserts, soufflés, and chocolate work.
- Opportunity for culture with excursions in Brittany and Normandy to gain insights into regional food culture and nutrition.
- Comfortable on-site accommodations with modern amenities, freshly prepared meals, and complimentary transportation from the nearby train station.
Course Overview and Details
The Walnut Grove Cookery School offers a hands-on French Cooking Course that immerses participants in the art of classic French cuisine.
This 5-day program, priced at $5,329 per person, accommodates a small group of up to 6 students. Instruction is provided in English and French, and the school offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later. The program focuses on essential French cooking techniques, including butchery, stocks, sauces, and pastry-making, culminating in a daily six-course gourmet dinner prepared by the students under the guidance of Chef Eric.
Culinary Experience
Focused on classic French cooking techniques and patisserie, the hands-on program immerses participants in the culinary arts.
Students learn French butchery, stock-making, saucing, and sous vide cooking. They’ll master pastry doughs, desserts, soufflés, and chocolate work.
Students learn the fundamentals of French cuisine, including butchery, stock-making, saucing, and sous vide cooking, as well as pastry, desserts, soufflés, and chocolate work.
Each day culminates in a six-course gourmet dinner, where students prepare the meals alongside Chef Eric. The emphasis is on farm-to-table cooking and sourcing local ingredients, offering a healthier approach to French cuisine.
Through hands-on classes in a cozy, 200-year-old French farmhouse kitchen, participants receive individualized attention and support from the experienced chef.
Instructor and Learning Environment
Instruction at the French Cooking Course is led by Chef Eric, who brings over 40 years of culinary expertise to the program.
The hands-on classes take place in a kitchen resembling a 200-year-old French farmhouse, creating a comfortable atmosphere with familiar equipment. Individualized instruction and support from the chef ensure an enriching learning experience.
The program emphasizes:
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Classic French cooking techniques and patisserie
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French butchery, stocks, sauces, and sous vide cooking
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Mastering pastry doughs, desserts, soufflés, and chocolate work
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Daily six-course gourmet dinners
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Farm-to-table cooking and local ingredient sourcing
Cultural Immersion and Excursions
Along With the culinary skills developed in the kitchen, the French Cooking Course also emphasizes culture and excursions. Participants explore local destinations in Brittany and Normandy, gaining insights into the region’s food culture.
The school’s garden provides lessons on growing ingredients for a healthier lifestyle. Throughout the experience, the focus is on nutritious, locally-sourced produce, promoting a well-rounded understanding of French cuisine.
These cultural activities complement the hands-on cooking classes, offering a truly immersive experience that goes beyond just learning techniques in the kitchen.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyAccommodations and Amenities
The French Cooking Course provides comfortable guest accommodations either at the on-site Farm or Village.
Included in the course, you will enjoy:
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Charming rooms with modern amenities
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Access to the school’s well-equipped kitchen and cozy dining areas
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Freshly prepared breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily
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Complimentary on-site parking and Wi-Fi
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Roundtrip transfers from the nearby Gare Laval station
These thoughtful amenities ensure a relaxing and immersive experience, allowing participants to fully focus on mastering classic French cooking techniques under the guidance of the experienced chef.
Itinerary and Schedule
Beyond the comfortable accommodations, the French Cooking Course presents an immersive schedule that allows participants to fully explore the culinary traditions of France.
Classes run daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, covering a range of techniques from French butchery to pastry work.
Gourmet six-course dinners prepared by the chef and students are served each evening.
Cultural excursions to local markets, farms, and culinary destinations in Brittany and Normandy are also included.
With a hands-on, experiential focus, the course ensures students gain practical skills to recreate authentic French cuisine at home.
Pricing and Booking Information
Priced from $5,329 per person, the 5-day French Cooking Course offers an immersive culinary experience in Brittany and Normandy.
The class size is limited to 6 participants, ensuring individualized attention from the experienced chef instructor.
Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The course is available in both English and French, accommodating a diverse audience.
With these convenient booking policies, aspiring home chefs can confidently secure their spot in this unique French cooking adventure.
What to Expect and Prepare For
Participants can expect an immersive and hands-on culinary adventure during the 5-day French Cooking Course. Led by acclaimed Chef Eric, the course focuses on mastering classic French cooking techniques and patisserie.
Students will learn hands-on skills like French butchery, stocks, sauces, and sous vide cooking. They’ll also dive into pastry doughs, desserts, soufflés, and chocolate work.
The daily six-course gourmet dinners showcase the students’ progress, featuring locally-sourced, farm-to-table ingredients. With individualized instruction in a comfortable kitchen environment, participants gain practical expertise to recreate these dishes at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate?
The course doesn’t specify a minimum age, but it’s likely suited for adults due to the hands-on nature and focus on advanced French cooking techniques. Participants should have a passion for gastronomy and be comfortable in a professional kitchen environment.
Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated?
Yes, the school can accommodate various dietary restrictions. Students should notify the school of any food allergies or special dietary needs when booking, and the chef will work to provide suitable alternatives throughout the culinary experience.
How Much Free Time Is Included in the Schedule?
The course schedule includes free time for participants to explore the local area and relax. Each day features a mix of hands-on cooking classes and cultural excursions, allowing ample opportunities for independent discovery and leisure.
Are There Any Required Pre-Course Cooking Skills?
The course doesn’t require any specific pre-course cooking skills. It’s designed for all levels, from beginners to experienced chefs, and the instructor provides personalized guidance to help students master classic French techniques.
Can I Extend My Stay Beyond the 5-Day Course?
Yes, guests can extend their stay beyond the 5-day course. The school offers additional accommodations at the Farm or Village for those who wish to explore the region further. Flexible booking options allow guests to customize their experience.
Recap
Enjoy the art of French cuisine with this hands-on cooking course set in a charming farmhouse. Hone your culinary skills under the guidance of an expert chef, explore local food culture, and savor delectable meals – all while enjoying comfortable accommodations. This unique experience promises to deepen your appreciation for French culinary traditions and elevate your cooking prowess.
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