Another tasty addition to our family cooking classes has come to completion. Nine families joined in this exploration in partnership with the U of M Extension. Parents and their children learned healthy cooking techniques and explored cooking with zucchini, tofu, and chickpeas for hummus. For many, this was the first time they had tried hummus. Some Banyan staff were able to taste test the hummus, affirming its delicious quality.
Perhaps the most surprising lesson for parents was how easy it is to make your own salad vinaigrette dressing! While preparing the dressing, a number of Banyan parents questioned why they ever purchased dressing from the grocery store when it is so cheap and easy to make. This healthy recipe was the number one keeper!
Families met for six evenings. Each session included group exercise, hands-on cooking, and a classroom lesson on food and healthy cooking techniques. It was a joy to watch kids chopping vegetables, parents learning nutrition truths, and everyone tasting new dishes they created. The curriculum of Cooking Matters Minnesota exemplifies Banyan’s commitment to developing youth, strengthening families, and creating community.