The Tool Bar: Free Video from the Culinary Institute of America
From the Chocolate Decorating Technique DVD
You probably already know that the CIA in Hyde Park, New York, and Napa, California, is a veritable treasure trove of information for cooks both amateur and professional.
Unfortunately, much of it comes with a hefty price tag, whether you’re talking books, classes, or video instruction.
But the other day I stumbled upon free video samples of their podcasts and DVDs that provide just enough to learn a few things with every clip. For example, here’s a great primer on knives.
Go here and under each of the links on the right — cake art, boot camp, etc. — you’ll find a different sample podcast.
Likewise, here under the DVD tab. Gluten-free baking, baking bread, even wine service are available. Wander around, and you’ll find that every DVD entry has a sample video clip.
Here click on View a Sample Podcast for info on toasting nuts and seeds.
Go ahead, have at it. And if you do something enough — i.e. rehydrating beans, brining, or making a roux — it’s a bargain to purchase one of the podcasts at $4.95 each or even a DVD at $49.95. After all, think of the money you’ll save on wasted ingredients.
Of course, there’s the CIA’s Youtube Channel, with even more information. You can easily spend HOURS here.
