Cooking for Kids: Complete Volume 1

Chef Desireé Dorwart (an instructor of culinary arts at The Art Institutes International Minnesota) teaches kitchen prowess to kids (and viewers ages 10 and older) in this four-disc set that includes six themed episodes. “Treats” features chocolate chip cookies, blueberry muffins, and chocolate truffles; “Breakfast” includes techniques for making scrambled, fried, and poached eggs; “Asian Dinner” includes stir fry and sushi rolls; “Cooking Methods” concentrates on processes such as searing, deep frying, and braising; “Lunch” features homemade mayo, bread, and chicken soup, as well as egg salad with capers; and “Italian Dinner” serves up homemade pasta dough, meatballs, and Caesar salad. Although a few of the recipes seem a bit sophisticated for the target audience (some of whom might be confused by terms such as “emulsify”), Dorwart is a patient instructor who thoroughly explains procedures as she works (and the set includes a 50-minute bonus disc on kitchen safety, equipment training, and knife skills). DVD extras include PDF printable recipes. Recommended. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood)