On February 10, 2024, Hyde Park, NY – The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) showcased a collaborative culinary journey on TikTok, featuring Cornell University’s Matthew Merril and CIA’s own Jessica Brodt. This initiative highlights the merging of talent from two esteemed institutions, focusing on the preparation of chicken fricassee. Their endeavor underlines the importance of collaborative learning and skill enhancement in the culinary arts, demonstrating that the kitchen is not just a space for cooking but a vibrant classroom of shared experiences and learning opportunities.
Matthew Merril recently embarked on a culinary adventure that bridged the knowledge gap between two prestigious institutions: The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) and Cornell University. This unique immersion program not only united campuses but also doubled the fun and learning opportunities for students and participants alike
Our journey today takes us into the heart of this innovative collaboration as Matthew teams up with Jessica Brodt, a dedicated student from the CIA, to tackle a classic yet challenging dish: chicken fricassee. This collaboration is not just about cooking; it’s a testament to the power of learning from one another, pushing boundaries, and honing skills under the guidance of culinary excellence.
The dish in question, chicken fricassee, stands as a symbol of culinary finesse, requiring a delicate balance of flavors and techniques. Matthew’s participation in this venture is a vivid illustration of his commitment to culinary arts and his eagerness to learn and share his knowledge with others.
Chicken fricassee is a classic French dish that involves browning chicken pieces, then braising them in a rich, creamy sauce with a mix of vegetables, typically including onions, carrots, and mushrooms. The sauce is thickened with a roux (a mixture of flour and fat) and enriched with cream or egg yolks, giving it a luxurious texture. This cooking technique combines sautéing and simmering, allowing the chicken to become tender while absorbing the flavors of the sauce and vegetables. It’s a testament to the art of balancing flavors and textures in traditional culinary practices.
This experience, highlighted by the CIA’s engaging TikTok post, showcases the essence of culinary education today: it’s dynamic, collaborative, and boundless. As Matthew and Jessica join forces, they remind us that the kitchen is not just a place for cooking but a classroom where every ingredient, technique, and shared moment is a lesson in itself.
Throughout his immersive experience at the Culinary Institute of America, Matthew Merril enriched the culinary community by sharing daily TikTok posts. These posts captured his journey, offering a unique glimpse into the daily life and learning at one of the world’s premier culinary schools. Through this digital diary, Matthew not only documented his growth and the challenges he faced but also shared the vibrant culture and the spirit of collaboration that defines the CIA, making his educational journey accessible to a global audience.
