I would guess a nationally recognized pastry chef wouldn’t need to answer an ad in the paper for work. But when the job description is just as appealing as a galette, Chef Gale Gand is all in. A friend showed Gale the ad thinking she might know someone to apply as the Chef in Residence for Elawa Farm in Lake Forest, IL. After reading it, she realized, the job was perfect for her and the next thing she knew, she signed on to bake three times a week, host cooking demos, cooking classes and work with the garden director. The garden director asked for a specific “wish list” of what to grow and sell at the Farmers Market. With several varieties of herbs, honey, and fruits, their garden is at her disposal to create. 

With over 600 acres of wetlands, the farm is a regular spot for runners and walkers who often end up at the market for a stroll.  What Gale has set out to do is add the element of leisurely consuming while shopping. Although she won’t be on hand for every farmers market, she is eager to make it interactive for shoppers. When someone happens upon Elawa's Garden Market selling fresh goods, they can eat a yogurt or have a lemonade. 

This is just the beginning according to the new Chef in Residence. By partnering with Elawa, Gale has a home at the kitchen to host cooking classes and demos which holds up to 20 people. The classes will definitely be seasonally focused. “I want to pick tomatoes and make a sauce from scratch with the class,” says Gand. Lessons will be both “savory and sweet based on ingredients we are celebrating from the garden.” 

The Garden Market at Elawa Farm is open from June 21 - October 15 on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Chef Gale Gand’s cooking class schedule is as follows:

Aug 17, Wed, 11:00-1:00- Tomato class-Fresh Tomato Sauce, Roasted Tomatoes, Pasta

Sept 19, Monday, 1:00 - 3:00- Apples class- Applesauce Doughnuts, Apple Butter, Apple Fritters

Oct 18, Tuesday, 11:00-1:00- Pumpkin Class - Pumpkin Muffins, Gnocchi, Soup

Nov 17 Thursday 1:00-3:00 - Pie class

The classes will be $75 per person and run approximately two hours. For more information, call 847-234-1966

For more information, contact Elawa and click here.