Pineapple Alley Catering
Cooking Classes

Mount Airy Mansion
Fine Arts Series


Introduces Cooking Classes

Chef Kristen Ratcliffe, back with Pineapple Alley from a world trip where she gathered a treasure trove of new recipes, will host these classes.

Back by popular demand! Looking to learn some new cooking techniques and recipes? Enjoy a fun evening of cooking, friends and eating! So sign up and bring a friend along.


Summer Series 3 Classes $150 for series or $60 per class

August: Summer Bounty
8/20/08
Late August is perfect for garden fresh tomatoes, eggplant and peppers. Sweet corn is still in abundance, ripe peaches and melons.  Simple salads, quick and easy desserts, salsas and relishes that can be enjoyed all year long!

September: BBQ BBQ BBQ
9/3/08
Learn some new techniques for grilling vegetables, seafood and fruits. Comparing the difference between charcoal and gas grilling, sensational sauces and accompanying condiments to enhance any backyard BBQ!

September: Simple Middle Eastern and Greek
9/24/08
Healthy and simple food of the area. Stuffed grapes leaves, spanikopita, lamb, traditional dips and spreads, sinful desserts using phyllo dough. Discuss the regional ingredients and their many uses.


Fall Series 4 Classes $200 for series or $60 per class

October: Asian Favorites
10/8/08
A culinary tour of China and Southeast Asia. Learn to fold Chinese dumplings, light and crunchy spring rolls, Thai soups, and fresh Vietnamese Spring rolls. Discussion to include an overview of Asian ingredients, regional differences and a bit of their culture.

October: Autumn Harvest
10/22/08
Cool weather is the perfect time to break out the soup pot. Tasty fall soups and stews will be made, including the perfect beef stew! Make fall salads of root vegetables and dried fruits, with all these great ingredients you’ll wish spring never arrives.

November: Roasting and Braising
11/5/08
Learn the art of roasting vegetables and meat to bring out the full flavor of the simplest items. Cut grocery bills in half by learning the best braising techniques for less expensive cuts of meat and releasing their full potential!

November: Thanksgiving Unleashed
11/19/08
Learn the way to roast the perfect bird, make several different versions of your momma’s stuffing, simple vegetable side dishes, sweet and easy desserts, and the secret to making the perfect gravy! Winter Series 3 Classes $165 for series or $65 per class.


Winter Series 3 Classes $165 for series or $65 per class

December: Gingerbread with the Kids

12/2/08
Borrow a kid for this tasty treat. Have a sweet day decorating a simple gingerbread house. Learn an indestructible gingerbread recipe and easy decorating tips. Also included are other quick and fantastic candies to tempt your sweet tooth.

January: Wine and Cheese Pairing

1/14/09
Learn the basics of wine and cheese making, classifications of cheese, classic pairings, exploring the taste buds and food descriptors. Recipes for elegant appetizers using local cheeses.

February: Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate!
2/4/09
That’s right, it is time for Chocolate. Discussion on the basic method of how chocolate is made, the types of chocolate and why we love chocolate. Both savory and sweet dishes will be made with our favorite food!



All Classes include recipes and literature discussed in the class. After the class we will all sit down and enjoy the meal together!

Please bring your apron….and be ready to cook!

Classes are held at Mt. Airy Mansion Kitchen. Each Class requires a minimum of 8 students. Reservations accepted on a first come first serve basis. Classes can be purchased as a series or as individual class.

Make Check Payable to:
Pineapple Alley Catering, Inc.
8809 Old Branch Ave
Clinton, MD 20735

For questions and sign up please contact Kristen S. Ratcliffe at 301-856-4292, or click here to send her an e-mail.

Kristen Ratcliffe is a graduate of Johnson and Wales University and received a BS in Culinary Arts. Since 2002 then she has worked in Rhode Island, Seattle and traveled to more than 35 countries. She enjoys sharing her love of all ethnic foods and cooking skills. Hope to see you there!