Shelley Handler

Introduction: I have 30+ years of professional culinary experience, ranging from chef of Chez Panisse Cafe to nearly a decade of teaching aspiring chefs at the California Culinary Academy. For over 10+ years my teaching has been aimed at a wide range of non-professionals, from "I can't even" beginners, to home cooks with a good bit of skill at the stove. Working with you in your own kitchen, we'll focus on what you want to learn most, whether it's as simple as poaching an egg, or as fancy as making the Hollandaise to top it. Choosing from the techniques and cuisines that interest you most, you’ll learn to make tasty, from-scratch dishes, some simple enough to go from stove to table in 20 minutes or less. And should you want to make more complex dishes we can do that too. The classes are tailored specifically for you. Teaching privately, I take real delight in watching clients who have never cooked begin to feel at home in the kitchen. I also love seeing those who already have skills begin take a flavorful risk or two. I enjoy working with the kitchen-shy, students who are anxious about getting it right and helping them loosen up at the stove. Working with me, you’ll learn to feel at ease around knives, flames and big hot pans. You’ll also learn timing, a bit of meal planning and what flavors combine well. And if you’re already at home with all that, we’ll focus on adding to your skills and bringing out your own inventive touch. My 30+ years of teaching have focused on Italian, Mexican, Spanish, Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine, as well as the lovely mix of these that find that find their way into our broad-ranging California style. I am not, however, a baker or pastry chef. If you want to learn to make sourdough or wrangle a pie crust, there are other chefs here who excel at those. If you're looking to make cookies or brownies, let's talk! As we are currently observing COVID-safe practices, I've been teaching my classes via Zoom. My clients have been very happy taking me into their kitchens via laptop or tablet. I have a two-camera setup so you can see me, my hands and my burners with ease.