Originally posted to the web in News, on Wednesday, February 20, 2008 11:24 AM CST.
Western cooking ‘class’ offered
Share an Old West-style culinary adventure with an Arizona cooking champion on Saturday, March 22, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., in Wickenburg.
Fancy the stalwart vittles that won the West? Want to spend a glorious day in the shadow of Wickenburg’s Vulture Peak? Join Mark “Dutch” Wilkins, Arizona State Champion of the International Dutch Oven Society (IDOS), and his motley crew for a cooking “class” you’ll never forget! Sponsored by Desert Caballeros Western Museum (DCWM) and staged at the cookout site of the Rancho de los Caballeros, this singular event combines history and education enhanced by wonderful scenery and a great meal.
Cooking, eating as Western pioneers did
“‘Cookie’ was often the most popular fellow to travel the trails of the early West; preparing meals with minimal equipment was a highly respected culinary art even in the late 1800s,” said museum director Royce Kardinal. “Participants in this event will come away with a full tummy and a true experience of the Old West.”
“What could be more Western than learning how to cook in the traditional Dutch oven?” asked Joe Stevens, chairman of the DCWM Education Committee. “What you learn from this culinary adventure can be applied to your kitchen in Sun City, Anthem or anywhere else in the Valley.” Stevens went on to describe highlights of the menu awaiting participants in this culinary adventure. “Wait until you savor those rattlesnake ribs. As ‘Dutch’ says, they have more than a little ‘bite’!”
Like many others, Wilkins’ passion for Dutch oven cooking began as a young man with Boy Scout cookouts. After becoming involved with IDOS, he formed an Arizona chapter and became its director. Recipient of the Arizona State Champion 2007-2008 title, Wilkins has appeared on the FoodTV network several times and participates in chuck wagon cook offs throughout the Southwest.
“Dutch and his crew are a real hit at our event,” said Mary Brown, director of the Valley’s annual Festival of the West.
The Dutch oven’s distinguished history
Cast iron Dutch ovens have been an integral part of America since settlement days. George Washington fed his troops with this equipment, and Paul Revere is credited with developing the flat-topped version with the turned-up edge. “As settlers moved across the land, the Dutch oven was probably the most important utensil stored on the wagon or carried by pack animals,” Wilkins explained.
First come, first “served”
A maximum of 25 people will participate in this event on Saturday, March 22. The cost is $50 for museum members, $75 for all others. Ovens, food, utensils and recipes are provided. Instruction includes introduction to all types of Dutch oven cooking gear. Casual clothing and outdoor shoes are recommended. Participants will meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Desert Caballeros Western Museum. For reservations, call 684-2272.
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