Culinary Experiences
At Crooked Pines Farm, our mission is to share the joy of food, nurture community connections, and inspire people to live more sustainably. We strive to do this through a vibrant calendar of cooking classes, culinary demonstrations, and interactive workshops all year round.
Our seasonal farm-to-table classes cover a wide range of topics, from teaching kids the basics of foraging and seed-starting to hosting advanced sessions on fermentation techniques and creating impressive charcuterie boards. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just learning your way around the kitchen, our passionate instructors are here to guide you on your culinary journey.
Cooking Classes
From springtime ramp foraging to autumnal apple pie baking, our cooking classes celebrate the bounty of each season. Join us as we explore global cuisines, master essential knife skills, or dive into the art of sourdough bread-making. Our hands-on lessons provide an opportunity to get up close and personal with the food you eat, with plenty of chances to get your hands dirty and sample the fruits (or vegetables!) of your labor.
Culinary Demonstrations
In addition to our interactive classes, we also host regular culinary demonstrations that showcase the expertise of local chefs, food artisans, and industry experts. Stop by to watch a live butchery demo, learn how to craft the perfect vinaigrette, or discover the secrets to perfectly caramelized roasted vegetables. These fast-paced sessions are a great way to pick up new techniques and get inspired in the kitchen.
Workshops
For those looking to expand their culinary skillset beyond the basics, our in-depth workshops offer a deeper dive. Explore the nuances of fermentation, uncover the mysteries of mindful eating, or learn how to build a thriving backyard garden. These multi-session programs provide an opportunity to really hone your craft and walk away with practical knowledge you can apply at home.
Crooked Pines Farm
Crooked Pines Farm has been a fixture in our community for over 50 years. What started as a small family homestead has blossomed into a dynamic 25-acre operation that grows a diverse array of heirloom produce, raises heritage livestock, and champions sustainable agriculture practices.
History & Produce
The farm was originally founded in the 1960s by the Wilkins family, who painstakingly cultivated the land and built the charming farmhouse and red barn that still stand today. Over the decades, Crooked Pines has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, embracing organic farming methods and expanding its offerings to include a robust U-pick program, on-site farm stand, and CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) subscription service.
Today, the fields of Crooked Pines burst with a vibrant tapestry of leafy greens, vine-ripened tomatoes, fragrant herbs, crisp root vegetables, and so much more. Our farmers take great pride in growing unique heirloom and open-pollinated varieties that prioritize flavor and nutrition over commercial appeal.
Sustainability
Underlying all of our operations is a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable agriculture. We utilize regenerative farming techniques like cover cropping, no-till cultivation, and integrated pest management to build healthy, living soil and support biodiversity. Our livestock are raised with the utmost care, roaming freely and foraging on lush pastures.
We also strive to minimize waste and close nutrient loops wherever possible. Food scraps are composted to nourish our fields, while any excess produce is donated to local food banks. Even our cooking class ingredients are sourced primarily from our own farm or neighboring producers, ensuring the lowest carbon footprint possible.
Seasonal Cuisine
At the heart of Crooked Pines is a deep appreciation for the rhythms of the seasons and the incredible flavors they bring. Our chefs and instructors work tirelessly to showcase the bounty of the farm through an ever-changing rotation of farm-to-table recipes and seasonal cuisine.
Local Ingredients
Whether it’s juicy heirloom tomatoes in the height of summer or vibrant root vegetable medleys in the chilly months, we celebrate the unique characteristics of each ingredient and let them shine. Our classes and demos highlight local producers, artisanal purveyors, and the cultivation stories behind the foods we love.
Farmhouse Recipes
From flaky rhubarb hand pies to savory squash blossom fritters, our recipes honor the farmhouse cooking traditions of the past while infusing them with modern twists. We’ll teach you how to make the most of each season’s harvest, whether that’s crafting a fragrant herbal pesto, whipping up a luscious tomato jam, or preserving the summer’s bounty through canning and fermenting.
Flavor Profiles
Beyond just cooking techniques, our classes also dive into the science and flavor profiles that make these seasonal ingredients so special. You’ll learn to identify the unique characteristics of heirloom tomato varieties, discover the nuanced aromas of herbs, and explore how fermentation can transform humble vegetables into tantalizing delicacies.
Educational Initiatives
At Crooked Pines, we believe that cultivating a deeper connection to our food is the key to building a more sustainable and nourishing future. That’s why we’re committed to educational initiatives that empower people of all ages to engage with the land, understand where their food comes from, and celebrate the culinary traditions that have sustained communities for generations.
Farm-to-Table Principles
Through our classes and workshops, we aim to demystify the farm-to-table concept and show how easy it can be to incorporate seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients into your everyday cooking. You’ll learn about regenerative agriculture practices, discover the benefits of eating with the seasons, and gain practical tips for reducing food waste in your own kitchen.
Culinary Traditions
Many of our programs also shine a light on the rich culinary traditions that have been passed down through the generations. From the time-honored methods of bread baking to the artistry of cheesemaking, we explore the stories and techniques that have shaped the way we cook and eat. By understanding these roots, we can better appreciate the value of patience, craft, and community in the kitchen.
Nutritional Benefits
Of course, embracing seasonal, locally-grown foods isn’t just good for the planet – it’s also incredibly nourishing for our bodies. In our classes, we delve into the unique nutritional profiles of heirloom varieties, discuss the importance of gut health, and share practical strategies for boosting the vitamin and mineral content of your meals.
Whether you’re looking to expand your culinary skills, connect with the land, or simply enjoy the flavors of the season, we invite you to join us at Crooked Pines Farm. Our calendar is always evolving, so be sure to check our website at www.crookedpinesfarm.com for the latest offerings. We can’t wait to welcome you to the farm!
