The aroma of turkey tetrazzini wafts through the air, mingling with the tantalizing scents of apple and cranberry cobbler. The lively chatter of eager participants fills the meeting room, their anticipation building as they gather around the demonstration table for a taste. This is not a scene from a bustling restaurant kitchen, but rather a vibrant gathering at the Aurora Public Library District’s Holiday Potluck program! Tuesday, Dec. 12. The West Branch will welcome chef Susan Maddox to share her expertise in preparing three dishes that are sure to wow this holiday season.
This is one of many appearances Chef Susan Maddox has made at APLD over the years, and for good reason. Her knowledge and demeanor have made her a popular attraction, drawing individuals of all ages and culinary backgrounds. In fact, when the West Branch was host to Simple Spring Meals earlier this year, the program filled up quickly and many names were on the waiting list!
“We’ve always had good feedback from customers when she’s cooked for us. Attendees always ask to have her back again,” said reference and programming manager, Janet Stephens. “She not only demonstrates her skill, but she also keeps the audience laughing with her cooking stories and jokes.” The interactive session allows participants to observe and replicate the chef’s techniques, while gaining valuable insights into ingredient selection and flavor combinations.
For the Holiday Potluck Dishes program, chef Susan Maddox chose these particular dishes to showcase a wide variety of flavors and skills, sure to appeal to a large crowd. Do you have a potluck staple that your family craves every year? Maybe you’ll learn some tips from watching the preparation of her creamed corn with red peppers and spinach that you can apply to your own meals. Need something to bring to your first holiday celebration with the in-laws? Nothing’s easier than a crock pot cobbler with the steps laid out ahead of time for you. If even after you attend the program and need something different, the library has literally thousands of cookbooks to choose from. “Staff will be glad to show you the area or look up information on a particular cookbook or type of cooking,” adds Stephens. We want you to be successful in the kitchen and blow everyone away with what you bring to the table this holiday season.
This program’s success lies not only in its educational value but in its ability to transform the West Branch into a hub of culinary exploration and social engagement. The Library, traditionally viewed as a sanctuary for books and knowledge, can be a place where culinary creativity blossoms and where the joy of cooking brings people together. To learn from chef Susan Maddox and sample her culinary creations, be sure to register by visiting www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/event/9257412 or calling the Library at 630-264-4117. Holiday Potluck Dishes with Susan Maddox will be Tuesday, Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. in the West Branch meeting room. Bon appétit!
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.