Discover the art of outdoor cooking in Chesterfield’s most immersive culinary experience, where local flavors and outdoor adventure blend seamlessly. Master open-fire cooking techniques, forage for seasonal ingredients, and learn centuries-old New England recipes under the guidance of expert local chefs in the heart of New Hampshire’s wilderness. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced outdoor enthusiast, these hands-on classes transform traditional kitchen skills into wilderness culinary expertise. From crafting Dutch oven delicacies to preparing caught-that-day fish, each three-hour session combines practical skills with the rich flavors of the region. Join a growing community of outdoor cooking enthusiasts who gather weekly to share stories, techniques, and meals against the backdrop of Chesterfield’s stunning natural landscape.

What Makes Chesterfield’s Outdoor Cooking Classes Special

Learning in Nature’s Kitchen

Nestled among towering maples and fragrant pines, our outdoor classroom transforms nature into the ultimate culinary space. Students gather around custom-built stone cooking stations, where traditional campfires meet modern outdoor cooking techniques. Each station features adjustable grilling heights, Dutch oven platforms, and dedicated prep areas crafted from locally sourced granite.

The surrounding forest provides both inspiration and ingredients, with seasonal wild edibles within arm’s reach. Our herb garden, tended by students and instructors alike, offers fresh aromatics for every dish. The nearby stream not only provides ambiance but also serves as a natural refrigerator for keeping ingredients fresh during summer sessions.

Weather protection comes from our rustic pavilion, ensuring classes continue rain or shine while maintaining that essential connection to nature. Solar-powered lighting extends cooking sessions into the evening, creating magical dining experiences under the stars. Each element of our outdoor kitchen has been thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment while providing all the functionality of a professional cooking space.

Local Expert Instructors

Meet the passionate outdoor cooking experts who bring wilderness culinary arts to life in Chesterfield. Led by Chef Mike Harrison, a former backcountry guide with 20 years of outdoor cooking experience, our instructional team includes local foraging expert Sarah Mills and Dutch oven specialist Tom Peterson. Each instructor brings their unique expertise to the table, from traditional New England campfire cooking to modern outdoor gastronomy.

These seasoned instructors have mastered the art of teaching both beginners and experienced outdoor enthusiasts. They share not just recipes and techniques, but also stories from their adventures and local knowledge about seasonal ingredients found in the Chesterfield area. Their hands-on teaching approach ensures that every participant gains confidence in outdoor cooking skills while learning to appreciate the natural flavors of locally-sourced ingredients.

The instructors’ commitment to sustainable outdoor practices and food safety makes these classes both educational and environmentally conscious.

Essential Skills You’ll Master

Fire Management and Cooking Methods

Mastering fire management is at the heart of successful outdoor cooking, and our experienced instructors make this fundamental skill accessible and engaging. You’ll learn the art of building and maintaining different types of fires, from the steady heat needed for slow-cooking stews to the intense flames perfect for searing steaks.

The class covers essential techniques like the three-zone fire setup, which gives you complete control over cooking temperatures. You’ll discover how to arrange coals for direct and indirect heating, crucial for versatile outdoor cooking. Our instructors share local wisdom about using native hardwoods like maple and oak, which add distinct flavors to your dishes.

Students explore various cooking methods, including Dutch oven cooking, grilling on open flames, and the traditional New England favorite – stone cooking. You’ll practice adjusting heat levels using natural indicators and learn valuable troubleshooting tips for common challenges like wind and rain.

The course includes hands-on experience with different cooking equipment, from cast iron skillets to portable grills. You’ll master techniques like banking coals for overnight cooking and creating makeshift wind barriers to maintain consistent temperatures. Special attention is given to safety practices and responsible fire management in New Hampshire’s beautiful outdoor settings.

By the end of the session, you’ll confidently control your cooking fire and understand which methods work best for different dishes and situations.

Local Ingredients and Foraging

Discover the abundance of edible treasures in Chesterfield’s backyard as our expert instructors guide you through the art of cooking with locally sourced ingredients. The class begins with an educational walk through natural areas for foraging, where you’ll learn to identify common edible plants, mushrooms, and berries native to New Hampshire.

Our experienced foragers share their knowledge of seasonal availability, teaching you when and where to find ingredients like wild ramps in spring, blackberries in summer, and chanterelle mushrooms in fall. You’ll learn essential safety guidelines and sustainable harvesting practices to ensure these natural resources remain abundant for future generations.

The class also connects you with local farmers and food producers, introducing you to seasonal vegetables, herbs, and artisanal products that can enhance your outdoor cooking adventures. You’ll discover how to incorporate maple syrup from local sugar houses, fresh eggs from nearby farms, and honey from Chesterfield’s beekeepers into your outdoor meals.

By the end of the session, you’ll have the confidence to identify at least five edible wild plants and understand how to properly prepare them. We’ll also provide you with a seasonal foraging calendar and a list of trusted local food sources to support your future outdoor cooking endeavors.

Practical Class Information

Class Schedule and Registration

Classes run every Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM, with additional sessions on Wednesday evenings from 5 PM to 9 PM during peak summer months (June through August). Each class is limited to 12 participants to ensure personal attention and a comfortable learning environment.

To secure your spot, registration is required at least 48 hours in advance. You can register online through our booking portal or call us directly at (603) 555-0123. The standard class fee is $85 per person, which includes all ingredients, equipment usage, and a take-home recipe booklet.

We also offer special family sessions on the first Sunday of each month, where children aged 10 and up can join their parents at a reduced rate. Private group classes can be arranged for special occasions or team-building events.

Early bird registrations (made at least two weeks in advance) receive a 10% discount. Gift certificates are available and make perfect presents for the outdoor enthusiast in your life. Keep an eye on our seasonal calendar for themed holiday classes and special guest chef appearances!

What to Bring and Wear

Come prepared for your outdoor cooking adventure! We recommend wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing that you don’t mind getting a bit messy. Closed-toe shoes are essential for safety around the cooking area. In cooler months, dress in layers that you can easily add or remove as needed.

Each participant should bring:
– A reusable water bottle
– Notebook and pen for recipes
– Small hand towel
– Apron (though we have extras if needed)
– Camera or phone for capturing your culinary creations
– Reading glasses if you use them

For sun protection, don’t forget:
– Sunhat or cap
– Sunscreen
– Sunglasses

The class provides all cooking equipment, ingredients, and safety gear, but if you have favorite cooking tools you’d like to use, feel free to bring them along. We also recommend bringing a container for leftovers – you’ll definitely want to take home your delicious creations!

In case of light rain, we’ll continue cooking under our covered outdoor kitchen, so pack a light raincoat if the forecast looks uncertain.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Experience

To make the most of your Chesterfield cooking class experience, arrive at least 15 minutes early to familiarize yourself with the outdoor kitchen setup and meet your fellow participants. Just like our popular guided nature experiences, these classes are designed to be interactive and social.

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Bring a small notebook to jot down recipes and techniques – while we provide printed materials, your personal notes will help capture those special tips shared during demonstrations. Don’t forget your camera to document your culinary achievements!

Consider signing up with a friend or family member to share the experience. Working in pairs often leads to better results and more fun. However, if you’re coming solo, don’t worry – our instructors are experts at fostering a welcoming, collaborative atmosphere.

Ask questions whenever they arise. Our local chefs love sharing their knowledge and often provide valuable insights about seasonal ingredients and where to find them in Chesterfield. Take advantage of the tasting sessions throughout the class to understand how different cooking techniques affect flavors.

For hands-on sessions, position yourself where you can clearly see the instructor’s demonstrations. If you’re uncertain about any technique, don’t hesitate to request a repeat demonstration. Remember to pace yourself – it’s better to master one technique thoroughly than to rush through several.

Lastly, bring your sense of adventure and willingness to try new things. Some of the most memorable moments come from stepping outside your culinary comfort zone and experimenting with unfamiliar ingredients or methods.

Chesterfield’s outdoor cooking classes offer a unique blend of culinary education, outdoor adventure, and community connection that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced outdoor chef, these classes provide invaluable hands-on experience in a stunning natural setting. You’ll not only master essential outdoor cooking techniques but also gain confidence in your abilities while creating lasting memories with fellow food enthusiasts.

The knowledge and skills you’ll acquire here extend far beyond basic campfire cooking. From selecting the perfect ingredients to mastering temperature control in the great outdoors, these classes equip you with practical expertise you can use for years to come. The supportive environment, combined with expert instruction from local culinary masters, creates an unparalleled learning experience that celebrates both food and nature.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your outdoor cooking skills while exploring the beautiful landscapes of Chesterfield. Join us for an upcoming class and become part of our growing community of outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Your next great outdoor adventure – and your next delicious meal – awaits!