Here's a preview of what's coming in spring 2026

Our fall season is almost finished, so it's time to start planning for spring. Here's a preview of the cooking classes we have planned for you next semester at Urbana Park District. Mark your calendar for December 3 if you want to be first to sign up for these spring cooking classes:

• On February 12, 2026, we will be celebrating Vietnamese Lunar New Year with guest chef Thu Nguyen, a first-generation immigrant and "boat person" who forged a deep connection to her Vietnamese roots through food, family, and cultural engagement. Her passion for culinary arts blossomed in her twenties while living in Europe. Her journeys across more than 20 countries further enriched her palate and deepened her appreciation for authentic flavors.
• On March 5, 2026, I will be presenting my version of Indian Delights where we'll learn how to make a Garam Masala spice mix from scratch, then use this delightful seasoning to infuse a homemade Indian Goat Curry. India is a huge country with a diverse cuisine, and this recipe is based on a dish we tasted in Gangtok, a city in northern India near the border of Nepal.
• On April 2, 2026, guest chef Maxim Krupskiy, a visiting scholar at UI College of Law and a human rights defender, will present his version of Russian Home Cooking. Maxim has practiced law for more than twelve years in Russia defending refugees, civil activists persecuted by the Russian authorities, and NGOs labeled as “foreign agents.” Throughout his professional career he has specialized in the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms. Maxim loves to cook, share his culture, and bridge philosophical views. Tonight, Maxim will share his family's recipes and a few of his favorite dishes from his motherland.

These classes are all part of our long-running series at Urbana Park District's Phillips Recreation Center called PRINCIPLES OF ETHNIC COOKING. All our classes are all hands-on "cooking parties" where all students will participate in the preparation of the dishes on the menu. Our classes only have 12 seats, so reserve early. Full menu and details are here: www.cooking-with-paul.com/upd-2026-spring.html

More information about my cooking classes and pop-up events can always be found on my website, where you'll also find over 200 recipes from my classes (no ads!). You can also subscribe to my email newsletter or follow me on Instagram or Facebook and like my posts. Bon appétit!