a group of women playing crochet

for home cooks and aspiring chefs

Culinary Institute of Applewood Village

As part of our exclusive Engaged Living™ program, the Culinary Institute of Applewood™ (CIA) hosts monthly cooking demonstration events, culminating in a Food Network–style cooking competition for residents.

Due to the program’s popularity, the CIA takes place in the Performing Arts Center. Here, the executive chef and director of dining services lead engaging demonstrations on the selection, preparation and presentation of many different foods.

A Unique Dining Program

Experience the art of cooking with the CIA

At least one program during the year focuses on wine, including types, care and food pairing suggestions, finishing with a festive wine tasting. The presentation also encompasses meal planning, food sourcing, selecting ingredients and senior nutrition education.

At each event, residents prepare their own tableside meals, based on the presentation. With provided ingredients, attendees learn to create simple and healthy meals to share and enjoy with family and friends.

A woman buying groceries at the General Store

“Recipes from Home”

“The wonderful diversity of our residents offers a wealth of delicious family recipes that are best shared,” says Heath Braunstein, director of dining services.

“We launched a monthly contest, Recipes from Home, inviting submissions of family favorites.”

Heath says that each month a winner is chosen. The CIA prepares their favorite dish, ranging from appetizers to entrees to vegetables and desserts, for the whole community. The CIA also provides the recipe during the meal for those who would like to make it at home.

“This program is one more example of providing residents with the creature comforts of home, including favorite family recipes.”

Love to cook but hate to shop and chop? Try Applewood Village Chef at Home

Through the CIA, our residents gather together to explore cuisine trends and techniques or take advantage of the ready-to-cook meal kits that can be cooked at home without the hassle of shopping and meal prep.

Learn more about Dining Services at Applewood Village in Freehold Township, NJ

For more information about Applewood’s CIA program, call (848) 233-3016 to schedule a visit or attend an event for future residents.