Library Laboratory: Learn About Spices

Free workshops begin in March and are part of Hennepin County Library’s “Library Laboratory” series offering adults hands-on learning opportunities with local experts on a wide variety of subjects.

Mary Jo Rasmussen and other instructors from Urban Relish will demonstrate how to make spice blends and grilling rubs at “Sugar & Spice” labs March 12-May 18. Participants will make a spice blend to take home.

“These classes will focus on using spices and spice blends to add flavor to your food, from chili to soups and even hot chocolate and popcorn,” Rasmussen said. “We will cover buying, storing and using spices, including how to coax difference flavor nuances from the same spice, depending on whether you use it whole, toast it and grind it or combine it with other spices.”

Handouts will include recipes and suggestions for making spice blends such as taco seasoning and a barbecue rub. Participants can follow a recipe or create their own custom spice blend to take home.

"Spice blends are easy to make, and when you make your own, you ensure that the ingredients are fresh, you know there are no additives, and you can save money by combining spices you already have in new and interesting ways,” Rasmussen said.

Urban Relish instructors are professional caterers and kitchen organization consultants who have managed a cooking school, teach cooking classes and host private events. The workshops are presented in collaboration with Urban Relish.

Tuesday, March 12, 7–8:30 p.m.

Hennepin County Library - Ridgedale
Registration required, begins Feb. 12. Register online or call 612-543-8800.
Saturday, March 23, 10:30 a.m.–noon

Hennepin County Library - Hopkins
Registration required, begins Feb. 23. Register online or call 612-543-6400.
Monday, March 25, 6:30–8 p.m.

Hennepin County Library – Golden Valley
Registration required, begins Feb. 25. Register online or call 612-543-6375.

Thursday, April 18, 6-7:30 p.m.

Hennepin County Library – Pierre Bottineau

Registration required, begins March 21. Register online or call 612-543-6850.

Wednesday, May 15, 7-8:30 p.m.

Hennepin County Library – Eden Prairie

Registration required, begins April 17. Register online or call 612-543-6275.

Saturday, May 18, 10:30 a.m.-noon

Hennepin County Library – Champlin

Registration required, begins April 20. Register online or call 612-543-6250.

For more information, call the libraries or go to www.hclib.org and click on Events & Classes.