Featured :: Institute of Domestic Technology

We're deviating a little from our usual topic of home tours but I promise that it's worth it! Last weekend, I spent the day at the Institute of Domestic Technology where the staff was kind enough to let me observe and photograph their Foodcrafting 101 class. It's one of several hands-on classes, workshops and events the Institute hosts throughout the year to not only educate participants about food staples but to inspire at-home adoption and application. I first read about IDT in a past issue of Martha Stewart Living, and knew I had to make my way there, especially when I found out that its headquarters was more or less in my backyard in Altadena, CA.

IDT was founded by Joseph Shuldiner as he envisioned a place to share the "lost art" of food basics that seemed missing in today's culinary landscape. These topics range from cheesemaking, pickling, jam making, coffee roasting, fermenting, etc., and are just a few of the courses offered by IDT. Joseph is supported by a great group of knowledgeable and accomplished craftsmen - chefs, restauranteurs, cookbook authors, cheesemakers, etc. - that serve as faculty for the Institute.

Foodcrafting 101 was a day-long class that focused on four main areas: jam making, breadmaking, cheesemaking and DIY mustard. Each section was led by a different instructor who walked participants through a basic recipe, and showed techniques to recreate the processes at home. Even as an observer, I had such a great time and learned so much about how easy it is to create these basic pantry staples -- it's definitely made me think twice about buying them at the store!


The majority of Institute classes take place at the Zane Grey Estate which has an amazing history unto itself, and also still serves as a private residence. 




Students cutting and prepping fresh strawberries for jam making.










The Estate is also home to Mariposa Creamery, a micro-dairy with a small herd of goats.


The beautiful entryway of the Estate.


The Estate also features a solar-powered Airstream that's available for farmstays via AirBnb!







I hope to go back and take some courses (tofu making, anyone?) Many thanks to Daniel and everyone at IDT for allowing me to visit. For more information about and all upcoming courses and events, visit the website.