Foodie Interest: Cooking Classes

What a wonderful and unexpected Valentine's Day treat to learn that Birmingham chef Angela Schmidt will host cooking classes over the next several months. Pause for reaction. Yes. I know I could use them. Schmidt has worked in some of Birmingham's most prestigious restaurants: Chez Fonfon, Highlands Bar and Grill, Ocean, 26, and John's City Diner.

Cooking class schedule:

February 16: Buying, Handling, Filleting and Cooking whole fish.

March 16: Healthy Eating: Monday Night Vegetarian, Whole Grains, Uncommon Vegetables.

April 13: Homemade: Fresh Pasta, Simple Sauces, Fresh Cheeses.

May 18: Entertaining: Cocktails, Hors d'oeuvres, Themes, Showers.

June 15: Sushi: The Rice, History, Condiments, Different Types.

July 13: Kids Class.

Aug. 17: Summer Canning and Preserving: Tomatoes, Green Beans, Bread and Butter Pickles, Watermelon Rind Pickles, Cabbage Chow Chow.

To read more about how to sign up, cost, location, etc., go to: Birmingham chef Angela Schmidt of Chef U hosts cooking classes at Iz the Place in Vestavia Hills