Marcel's Culinary Experience announces 2012 classes

Marcel's Culinary Experience (www.marcelsculinaryexperience.com), a gourmet retailer and cooking school in historic downtown Glen Ellyn, has announced its class and demonstration schedule for the first quarter of 2012.

“Since our opening in late September, we've filled nearly every class, and added sessions and wait lists,” said owner Jill Foucré. “We've gotten a lot of positive feedback on our topics, instructors and their approachable style of teaching that appeals to cooks of all skill levels and experience. We're announcing our new schedule now to accommodate those who want to purchase classes as holiday gifts for family or friends – or themselves.”

Beginning in January, Marcel's is introducing classes for kids and teens, plus two new series: one focused on pasta, and the other on discussing and creating recipes from popular culinary books.

The offerings for younger cooks ($35-$40 per session) enable them to roll up their sleeves and get in the kitchen. Classes include Culinary Basics (Jan. 29), Valentine Cupcakes (Feb. 5), International Favorites (Feb. 26), Dinner for the Family (March 4), and Family Favorites (March 27).

Marcel's pasta series ($80 each) covers Pasta Basics (Feb. 25 and March 2), Baked Pasta (March 16) and Pasta Sauces (March 24).

Collaborating with Glen Ellyn's The Bookstore, Marcel's Book Club series ($80 each) will showcase The Language of Baklava by Diana Abu-Jaber (Jan. 31), Good Eats: The Early Years by Alton Brown (Feb. 23), and Tender at the Bone by Ruth Reichl (March 20). Participants can bring their own copies of the featured books to class, or purchase them at Marcel's.

Back by popular demand, Marcel's Passport series ($80 each) will continue its focus on traditional recipes from Cuba (Jan. 13), France (Feb. 17), and Spain (March 3).

Dozens of hands-on and demonstration classes ($30-$80 each) round out Marcel's first quarter 2012 schedule. One highlight is a Bloody Mary and Fresh Mozzarella Bar (Jan. 22) taught by Mixologist Annie Johnson and Cheesemaster/Chef Colleen Graham. Another is Marcel's Chili Throwdown (Jan. 28) where two local contestants – finalists from a Nov. 12 preliminary competition -- will vie for “best chili,” as voted on by class participants.

Executive Chef Kelly Sears oversees Marcel's class and demonstration schedule, working with popular Chicago area instructors Jamie Bordoshuk, Rose Carvallo, Coleen Graham, Allison Johnson, Paul Lindemuth, Cathy Schulbaum, Jean True, and Katie Wojciechowski.

Marcel's new schedule also includes 10 free daytime demonstrations – mainly on Tuesdays and no registration required. Topics include Cast Iron Steak, Popovers, Rice Pudding, Healthy Winter Salads, Meatloaf, Blondies, Breakfast for Dinner, Valentine Tart, Irish Boiled Dinner, and Healthy After School Snacks.

For a complete schedule of classes and demonstrations, visit www.marcelsculinaryexperience.com. Registration can be completed at the store, online, or via phone (630-790-8500).