A New Series of Foodways Classes Begins Monday in Elkins

January 28, 2023

Mountaineer News

Regional Connections

ELKINS, WV - The Augusta is presenting a new series of foodways classes in Elkins, WV with the first slated for Monday, January 30th from 6:00pm - 8:00pm. The classes will be taught by experienced chefs and home cooks from a variety of cultures represented in Appalachia today.

Cooking in Community: Foodways Traditions From Appalachia and Beyond classes will cover specific dishes such as arepas, adobo, tomato sauce, meatballs, pizzelles, pepperoni rolls, dumplings, fried chicken, and collard greens, as well as addressing topics, such as cooking fresh in food deserts, using local seasonal ingredients and canning and pickling techniques.

Students can expect to come away from each class with hands-on knowledge about how to make a dish and hopefully a deeper understanding of the importance of that dish to the people whose kitchens it sprang from.

What are foodways?

Foodways are more than food itself — they are the beliefs and context surrounding food, the person-to-person teaching of its preparation, as well as the community in which the food is enjoyed. The passing down of food traditions from one generation to the next is an integral piece of a community’s identity and culture. The series uses food to deepen community ties, celebrate important holidays, mark milestones and enrich our lives. A community’s values are readily communicated in the ways that food is celebrated and shared within it.

Registration Price is a sliding scale of $10.00 - $50.00, suggested $25.00.

Registration Link: https://augustaartsandculture.org/cooking-in-community.../.

Come to one or several of these scheduled classes. Limited seats are available for each class, so please register early. If your desired classes are sold out, please email millere2@dewv.edu to be added to a waiting list.

This project is made possible by Mid Atlantic Arts’ Central Appalachia Living Traditions program. All classes will be held at the Phil Gainer Community Center, 142 Robert E Lee Ave Ext, Elkins, WV 26241.