She Strengthens

The Rise of Virtual Cooking Classes

A New Era of Culinary Exploration

As the world came to a standstill in the spring of 2020, home cooks of all levels were faced with a daunting task: cooking for themselves and their loved ones. With restaurants closed and social distancing measures in place, many turned to cooking and baking as a way to regain control, routine, and creativity. Online searches for comfort foods like sourdough, banana bread, and lasagna skyrocketed as people sought solace in familiar flavors.

A Bright Spot in a Dark Time

As a culinary instructor, I found myself with an unexpected opportunity to explore new projects and connect with others who shared my passion for cooking. While I missed the camaraderie of in-person cooking classes, I saw an opportunity to provide guidance and support in a digital space. I wasn’t alone – hundreds of online cooking classes, virtual demos, and events sprouted up, hosted by food bloggers, celebrity chefs, and culinary schools.

The Early Days of Virtual Cooking

I began hosting live baking classes on Instagram, where anyone could join me for a baking project. Participants were encouraged to make voluntary charitable contributions to organizations supporting the restaurant industry, fighting hunger, or advocating for social justice. Those early classes were not without their challenges – managing a virtual classroom, navigating technology issues, and troubleshooting along the way. But as we adapted, I learned to pace my classes, slowing down to give students a chance to dig through drawers or pantries.

Growth and Evolution

As the summer wore on, home cooks and instructors alike gained confidence in their spaces, technology, and themselves. Virtual cooking classes evolved to include more challenging and elaborate menus, with ingredients or tools shipped to participants in advance. Projects that once seemed impossible suddenly seemed achievable. People who started with basic biscuit recipes were soon making croissants with ease.

Beyond Just Cooking

Virtual cooking classes offered more than just a new skill – they provided a break from the monotony of meal planning and cooking. With dining limited to takeout or meal kits, people were burned out. Online classes offered a change of pace, fresh ideas, and a sense of community. Unlike in-person classes, online instruction allowed people to cook in the comfort of their own kitchens, at their own pace, and with the ability to rewind and rewatch as needed.

A New Normal

Today, taking a cooking class over Zoom is no longer unusual. This shift has opened up opportunities for culinary instructors, chefs, and restaurant workers, as well as for anyone interested in honing their kitchen skills. I now teach online with Skillpop, a pop-up learning company that pivoted to virtual instruction during the pandemic. While I miss in-person instruction, teaching virtually has its advantages – I can reach people worldwide, and classes are often more affordable and accessible.

Where to Find Virtual Cooking Classes

If you’re looking to learn a new skill or add variety to your dinner routine, consider trying a virtual cooking class. Check with local restaurants, specialty food shops, or cooking schools to see if they’re offering virtual instruction. You can also search online platforms like Eventbrite, Skillpop, Eataly, Sur la Table, Williams Sonoma, Chefstreams, Airbnb Experiences, Craftsy, Milk Street, and America’s Test Kitchen. And don’t forget to reach out to your favorite chefs and bakers on Instagram – they might be open to teaching a private class or directing you to their latest offerings.