Spice up your winter table! Join us for a fun, hands-on class where classic Indian flavors meet the shareable world of tapas. In this 4-hour vegetarian session, you’ll cook a colorful spread of small plates while learning essential Indian spices and simple techniques for building bold flavor.
We’ll wrap up with a shared tasting table — because good food is best enjoyed together. No experience necessary, just an appetite for adventure! All ingredients and supplies provided, and you’ll leave with recipe cards to recreate the magic at home.
-
This one-time, 4-hour class will be held at the Plum Center,
-
Students will work with others in small groups.
-
The class has space for up to 12 people, so everyone gets a chance to learn and practice.
- Be ready to stand, cook, and work during the class.
- For your safety and comfort, please wear closed-toe shoes and tie back long hair.
-
During the class, you'll get to taste everything you make and take-home leftovers to enjoy!
Archana Balasaria is a passionate culinary instructor specializing in the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine, teaching hands-on cooking classes through Fairfax County Public Schools' ACE (Adult & Community Education) program. Born and raised in India, she brings a lifetime of kitchen memories to each class — the sizzle of mustard seeds, the layering of hand-ground spices, and the warmth of food made with intention and love. Her classes center on mindful Indian cooking, from crispy chaat to fragrant curries, guiding students step by step and turning hesitation into confidence. Her philosophy is simple: everyone deserves to feel at home in the kitchen, no matter their background or experience. Her classroom is an experience and more than a cooking space — it's a gathering place where cultures meet, stories are shared, and students leave with not just new recipes, but a deeper appreciation for the traditions behind the food. An avid traveler and photographer, she shares her culinary adventures and love of beauty — in nature, food, and people the most.
Please note that group classes are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not reached. Be sure to check our policies and procedures regarding registration, withdrawals, refunds, and more for our classes. Make sure to check out class enclosure details on your receipt. Registration closes 2 business days before the first class; however, space may still be available. Please contact registration for more information. For additional information, please contact homeimprovement@fcps.edu