Lecture

Browning & Oxidations

In this module, Carme Ruscalleda revisits the concepts of browning and oxidation, emphasizing their importance in flavor development. Participants will learn how these processes can enhance their culinary creations.

Key discussions will include:

  • The chemistry of browning reactions.
  • Techniques to control oxidation in cooking.
  • Applications in both savory and sweet dishes.

This module will empower attendees to incorporate browning and oxidation techniques into their culinary practices for improved flavor.


Course Lectures
  • This module provides an introduction to the historical context of food and its relationship with science. Leading experts, including Dave Arnold, Harold McGee, and David Weitz, will illustrate how cooking techniques have evolved over time.

    Participants will learn about:

    • The historical developments in food technology.
    • Demonstrations that highlight the scientific principles behind various cooking methods.

    Engaging discussions will foster a deeper appreciation of how scientific inquiry enhances our understanding of culinary practices.

  • This module focuses on precision cooking and its ability to create unique textures and flavors in food. Joan Roca, the acclaimed chef from El Celler de Can Roca, will share insights into methods that enhance culinary precision, including temperature control and timing.

    Participants will explore:

    • The science behind sous vide cooking.
    • How precision affects the quality of ingredients.
    • Innovative techniques for achieving desired textures.

    Roca’s expertise will guide participants in understanding the balance of flavor and texture in modern cuisine.

  • This module explores the diverse world of chocolate, led by Ramon Morató from Barry Callebaut. Participants will dive into the complexities of chocolate production, including its molecular structure and the impact of different processing methods on flavor and texture.

    Key topics include:

    • The journey of chocolate from bean to bar.
    • Flavor profiles and how they can be manipulated.
    • Techniques for working with chocolate in culinary applications.

    Morató will share practical demonstrations that highlight the art and science of chocolate making.

  • In this module, speakers Carles Tejedor, Fina Puigdevall, and Pere Planagumà delve into the use of thickeners in cooking to manipulate mouthfeel. Participants will learn how various thickeners can enhance the sensory experience of food.

    The session will cover:

    • Types of thickeners and their properties.
    • How thickeners interact with other ingredients.
    • Practical applications in modern cuisine.

    Attendees will gain insights into achieving the perfect texture in their culinary creations through the smart use of thickeners.

  • Enric Rovira leads this module, focusing on the relationship between heat, temperature, and chocolate. Participants will explore how these factors influence the quality and characteristics of chocolate, from tempering to melting points.

    Key discussions will include:

    • The science of chocolate crystallization.
    • Techniques for controlling temperature during chocolate preparation.
    • Practical applications in desserts and confections.

    This module will enhance participants' understanding of how to optimize chocolate usage in their culinary practices.

  • Join Grant Achatz in this engaging module on food texture and mouthfeel. Achatz, known for his innovative approach at Alinea, will take participants through the sensory aspects of food that contribute to the overall dining experience.

    Topics will include:

    • The role of texture in flavor perception.
    • Techniques to enhance mouthfeel in dishes.
    • Innovative textural combinations and their impact on cuisine.

    Participants will learn how to create memorable dining experiences through thoughtful consideration of texture in their culinary creations.

  • Gelation – 2011
    José Andrés

    José Andrés leads this module on gelation, sharing insights from his extensive experience in the culinary world. Participants will explore the science behind gelation, learning how it can be used to create unique textures and presentations in food.

    Key takeaways include:

    • The chemistry of gelling agents and their properties.
    • Applications of gelation in modern cooking.
    • Practical demonstrations of gelation techniques.

    This module will provide attendees with the tools to incorporate gelation into their culinary repertoire, enhancing creativity and presentation.

  • In this collaborative module, chefs Nandu Jubany and Carles Gaig will dive into the concept of mixing unmixable ingredients. Participants will learn how to create harmonious combinations of seemingly incompatible flavors and textures.

    Topics covered will include:

    • Understanding the science behind emulsification.
    • Techniques for successful ingredient pairing.
    • Practical applications in modern gastronomy.

    Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how to experiment with flavors and textures to create unique culinary experiences.

  • This module focuses on proteins and enzymes, specifically transglutaminase, with chef Wylie Dufresne. Participants will learn about the role of this enzyme in culinary applications and how it can transform food textures.

    Key topics include:

    • The science behind transglutaminase and its applications.
    • Demonstrations of protein manipulation techniques.
    • Creative uses of enzymes in modern cooking.

    Attendees will gain valuable insights into the potential of proteins and enzymes in culinary innovation.

  • Carme Ruscalleda leads this module on playing with taste through browning, exploring the Maillard reaction and caramelization. Participants will learn how these processes enhance flavors and create complex taste profiles in food.

    Key discussions will include:

    • The science behind browning reactions.
    • Techniques to achieve desirable browning in dishes.
    • Applications in both savory and sweet culinary creations.

    This module will empower attendees to experiment with browning techniques to elevate their cooking.

  • Join Dan Barber in this insightful module on the molecular differences between production methods in agriculture and food preparation. Participants will explore how these methods impact flavor, nutrition, and sustainability.

    Key topics include:

    • The science of food production and its effects on quality.
    • Comparative analysis of traditional versus modern methods.
    • Practical implications for chefs and consumers.

    Barber’s expertise will inspire participants to consider the broader implications of their food choices.

  • This module covers the often-overlooked field of food microbiology, led by David Chang. Participants will learn about the role of microorganisms in food preparation, preservation, and flavor development.

    Key areas of focus include:

    • The importance of fermentation in culinary traditions.
    • How microbes contribute to flavor and texture.
    • Innovative uses of microbiology in modern cuisine.

    Chang will provide insights into how understanding microbiology can enhance culinary creativity and safety.

  • Science in the Kitchen
    Nathan Myhrvold

    Nathan Myhrvold leads this module on the intersection of science and cooking, providing insights from his work on Modernist Cuisine. Participants will explore the scientific principles that underpin various cooking techniques and innovations.

    Key topics will include:

    • The role of technology in modern cooking.
    • Scientific principles that enhance culinary practices.
    • Case studies from Myhrvold's culinary explorations.

    This module will empower participants to think critically about the science involved in their cooking endeavors.

  • Bill Yosses presents this engaging module on the science of crystals, emulsions, and foams, using pink vanilla cupcakes as a case study. Participants will delve into the molecular structures that create these culinary wonders.

    Key discussions include:

    • The role of emulsions in achieving desired textures.
    • Understanding how foams can enhance flavor perception.
    • Creative applications in dessert preparation.

    This module will provide attendees with practical knowledge to experiment with these techniques in their own kitchens.

  • Ferran Adrià leads this module on innovative culinary thinking through the lens of elBulli 2.0. Participants will explore groundbreaking ideas and techniques that revolutionized the culinary world.

    Key topics include:

    • Creative processes behind elBulli’s success.
    • Innovative techniques that have transformed modern cuisine.
    • Collaborative approaches to culinary creativity.

    This module will inspire participants to think outside the box and embrace innovation in their culinary practices.

  • This module features a dialogue between renowned chefs Harold McGee, Ferran Adrià, and José Andrés, moderated by Professors David Weitz and Michael Brenner. Participants will engage in discussions about the intersection of culinary arts and science.

    Topics will include:

    • Exploration of scientific principles in cooking.
    • Creative processes behind culinary innovations.
    • Interactive discussions on the future of gastronomy.

    This module offers a unique opportunity for participants to engage with leaders in the field and gain insights into the evolving landscape of culinary arts.

  • Joan Roca returns to present this module on sous-vide cooking, exploring its implications as a state of matter. Participants will learn the science behind sous-vide techniques and their impact on flavor and texture.

    Key discussions will include:

    • The science of vacuum cooking and temperature control.
    • How sous-vide enhances the quality of ingredients.
    • Practical applications in professional kitchens.

    This module will equip attendees with the knowledge to incorporate sous-vide techniques into their culinary repertoire.

  • Bill Yosses presents this sweet and insightful module on desserts, exploring how they can alter the perception of time. Participants will learn about the psychological and sensory aspects of dessert preparation.

    Key topics include:

    • The role of desserts in enhancing dining experiences.
    • Creative techniques to evoke emotions through sweets.
    • Psychological effects of flavors and textures in desserts.

    This module will encourage participants to think creatively about desserts and their impact on the overall dining experience.

  • Olive Oil and Viscosity
    Carles Tejedor

    This module focuses on olive oil and viscosity, led by Carles Tejedor. Participants will explore how the viscosity of olive oil affects its culinary applications and flavor profiles.

    Key discussions will include:

    • The science behind oil viscosity and its impact on cooking.
    • How to select olive oils based on viscosity for various culinary uses.
    • Practical applications in modern gastronomy.

    Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how to utilize olive oil effectively in their cooking.

  • In this module, Grant Achatz returns to explore the theme of reinventing food texture and flavor. Participants will learn about innovative techniques that challenge traditional perceptions of texture and flavor in dishes.

    Key topics will include:

    • Creative approaches to texture in culinary presentation.
    • The impact of flavor combinations on dining experiences.
    • Case studies of Achatz’s innovative dishes.

    This module will inspire attendees to experiment with new ideas in their culinary practices.

  • Nandu Jubany leads this module on emulsions, teaching participants the concept of stabilizing oil and water mixtures. This core technique is essential for many culinary preparations and offers a window into the science of cooking.

    Key aspects of the module include:

    • The chemistry behind emulsification processes.
    • Techniques for creating stable emulsions.
    • Practical applications in sauces, dressings, and more.

    Attendees will gain hands-on experience in mastering emulsification techniques to elevate their culinary skills.

  • Gelation – 2010
    José Andrés

    This module revisits gelation with José Andrés, focusing on the advancements in gelation techniques from the previous year. Participants will explore new methods and their applications in culinary innovations.

    Key topics include:

    • Recent developments in gelling agents.
    • Creative applications of gelation in modern cooking.
    • Practical demonstrations showcasing new techniques.

    This module will provide a fresh perspective on gelation and its possibilities in contemporary cuisine.

  • Browning & Oxidations
    Carme Ruscalleda

    In this module, Carme Ruscalleda revisits the concepts of browning and oxidation, emphasizing their importance in flavor development. Participants will learn how these processes can enhance their culinary creations.

    Key discussions will include:

    • The chemistry of browning reactions.
    • Techniques to control oxidation in cooking.
    • Applications in both savory and sweet dishes.

    This module will empower attendees to incorporate browning and oxidation techniques into their culinary practices for improved flavor.

  • Meat Glue Mania
    Wylie Dufresne

    Wylie Dufresne presents this unique module on meat glue, exploring the innovative use of transglutaminase in modern cooking. Participants will learn how this enzyme can be used to bond ingredients and create new textures.

    Key topics will include:

    • The science behind meat glue and its culinary applications.
    • Techniques for using transglutaminase effectively.
    • Creative approaches to ingredient bonding and presentation.

    This module will challenge participants to think creatively about the possibilities of meat glue in their cooking.

  • This module features Dan Barber discussing flavor cultivation, emphasizing how to create recipes that enhance natural flavors. Participants will explore the science behind flavor development and innovative cooking methods.

    Key discussions will include:

    • The role of ingredients in flavor profiles.
    • Techniques for maximizing flavor in recipes.
    • Practical applications in sustainable cooking.

    Barber will inspire participants to think critically about flavors and how to elevate their culinary creations.

  • Creative Ceilings
    David Chang

    David Chang presents this module on creative ceilings, exploring unique presentations in modern cuisine. Participants will learn how visual elements can enhance the dining experience and engage the senses.

    Key topics will include:

    • The importance of aesthetics in food presentation.
    • Techniques for innovative plating and design.
    • Case studies of successful presentations in modern gastronomy.

    This module will encourage attendees to experiment with visual elements in their culinary practices to create memorable dining experiences.