Teens in the Kitchen with Chef Nicole: 4 Week Program

This 4-week Teen Cooking Together program is designed to engage teens (ages 13-17) in hands-on culinary education while building teamwork, creativity, and confidence in the kitchen.

Participants will gain essential skills week by week, culminating in a Chef’s Table Dinner for family and friends. Additionally, the program emphasizes community connections and collaboration in the kitchen.

Program Length: 4 weeks, with weekly 2-hour sessions.

Location: Kitchener market, 300 King Street E Kitchener ON, N2G 2L3

Cost: $250 per participant

Eligibility: Open to teens ages 13-17.

Week 1: Knife Skills & Kitchen Confidence – Chop, Sizzle, and Simmer

Get ready to sharpen your skills—literally! In this first session, teens will master essential knife techniques, from dicing onions to slicing herbs like a pro. They'll learn kitchen safety, sanitation, and basic cooking methods such as sautéing and simmering. With their new skills in hand, participants will create simple yet flavorful dishes, building confidence one chop at a time.

Week 2: Sauce Boss & Meat Mastery – Searing, Sautéing & Simmering

It’s time to bring on the flavor! This week, teens will dive into the art of sauce-making and meat cookery. They’ll learn to create rich pan sauces, velvety reductions, and tangy marinades, adding depth and complexity to their dishes. Participants will practice essential meat-cooking techniques, including searing, roasting, and proper temperature control, turning basic cuts into

restaurant-worthy entrées.

Week 3: Meal Masters – Planning, Prepping & Perfecting

It’s all about strategy and skill as teens level up their meal prep game. From crafting a balanced menu to perfecting their timing, they’ll learn how to plan and execute recipes efficiently. They’ll tackle more advanced techniques like bread baking or pastry fundamentals, transforming simple ingredients into impressive culinary creations.

Week 4: Chef’s Table – Cooking with Style & Flair

The grand finale! With skills finely tuned, teens will step into the role of chef, collaborating to prepare a multi-course meal for their families. They’ll focus on presentation techniques, flavor refinement, and teamwork to bring their culinary vision to life. The Chef’s Table Dinner is their moment to shine—serving up dishes that celebrate their growth, creativity, and passion for food