The Art of Spice Blending

Ready for some serious spice exploration? Delve into the enchanting world of spice blending with Claire Cheney, Curio’s founder and blender-in-chief.

She’ll introduce you to her flavor theory and the principles that she uses to make the exquisite blends we’re known for. Claire will guide you through tasting different spices and teach you about flavor and aroma. She will demonstrate blending techniques and discuss how attention to details such as texture and color can make a blend sing. And, Claire will share insider knowledge about layering flavor, roasting spices, grinding, sensory analysis, and training your palate.

In the hands-on portion of this class, you’ll make one of Curio’s classic blends plus create a blend of your own from our spice cupboard of over 80 intriguing spices.You’ll head home with Claire’s Spice Flavor Wheel, blending recipes, and jars of the two blends you made during class. Join us for this wonder-filled evening! This is a small class, limited to 13 participants. Sign up today to reserve your spot!

F rom Past Participants:

“I learned so much about categorizing spices and how to combine them (base, middle, top) in the ‘right’ proportions. The snack was so yummy! It was fun to taste the blend that Claire demonstrated. Claire and Sage were super helpful and knowledgeable and willing to offer suggestions!”

-Jan

“Hugely educational and a vast collection of unique spices to try. Wonderful combination of hands on and theory of spice mixing. I would recommend the course for any cooking enthusiast.”

-Jacob

Class price: $85 per person

Coffee and light snacks included.

Thursday June 27th, 6-8:30pm

Ages 12 and up.

Questions? Email us at [email protected]! We will get back to you as soon as possible, Tuesday - Saturday.

Giving this class as a gift?

Covid safety: Per the CDC’s and City of Cambridge’s guidance, masks are encouraged but not required. Attendees will not be required to show proof of vaccination or a negative rapid test. Please respect your fellow attendees. If you feel sick, stay home.

Directions: The Spice Lab is immediately adjacent to our spice shop, at 2267 Massachusetts Ave. Metered parking is available along Mass Ave, or there is a lot at the intersection of Day Street and Herbert Street towards Davis Square if you don't mind a quick walk!

Refund policy: Full refund or credit available up to 1 week prior to the event.

Claire Cheney founded Curio Spice Co. in 2015 to source spices directly from farmers and share their stories through her unique blends. She's worked in the specialty food and restaurant industry for 15 years with much of that time spent hunting spices, including sourcing in Ethiopia, Cambodia and Madagascar. Curio Spice Co. has been featured in the New York Times Wirecutter, Bon Appetit, CBS New England Living and elsewhere. Curio features over 200 spices in their Cambridge MA shop and has an online and national presence through other retailers. Curio is a mission driven Certified Benefit Corporation.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

2267 Massachusetts Ave, 2267 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, United States