As nights turn cooler a bowl of hearty soup and a chunk of good bread seem like the perfect combination for fall suppers. I was thrilled to find an Italian Soup Cooking Class in Ann Arbor, MI. The class was taught by Francesca Gitschlag a native Italian who calls Ann Arbor home.
While Francesca did most of the preparations, students also participated in preparing part of the soups. We prepared four traditional italian soups, Pasta Fagioli, Minestrone Genovese, Seafood and Fava Bean Soup. As Francesca prepared the soups she shared stories about where she learned the recipe and her childhood in Italy. She also discussed where to find the best and freshest ingredients in the Ann Arbor Area. At the end of the evening we enjoyed tasting all the different soups.
I met other Ann Arbor Foodies and learned about more fun cooking classes in Ann Arbor to enjoy. I am looking forward to attending two more classes by Francesca in her Italian Supper Series.
My hint for other attendees - take a small plastic container to class just in case there are a few leftovers to take home. The good news they have recently added another section of this class. You can register at Life Long Learning Program.
Of course the soups were all delicious. My favorite soup was the minestrone genovese, probably because it was topped with freshly made pesto and a spoonful of grated parmigano reggiano. The seafood soup* was also excellent. (Seafood Soup is shown in the picture)
The class was held by WCC however the class meets at Whole Foods in Ann Arbor. On Whole Food's second level there is a great demonstration kitchen. On the way out you can grab some of the ingredients discussed in the class. The evening was delightful, trying new tastes, sharing foodie finds in Ann Arbor and feasting on great soups and crusty bread. Locals took home extra soup, everyone was full of smiles!
(*Seafood Soup is shown in the picture)
