Marine Corps Base Quantico -- Culinary apprentices participated in the Basic Culinary and Knife Skills class at The Clubs at Quantico and Crossroads Events Center, Oct. 19. The course is the first of a cooking class series taught by Frank Tyeryar, the new executive chef.

Born in Frederick, Md., Tyeryar decided to enlist in the Marine Corps at the age of 18. After completing his initial enlistment from 1981 to 1984, Tyeryar began a career in the culinary arts. He attended Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York in 1992.

“Making a 15-minute meal can be easy, and I want them to see how easy it is,” said Tyeryar. “Don’t get me wrong; eating out is nice, but it can be really expensive. Why spend $20 for a dinner-for-one when you can feed a whole family for less.”

During Monday’s course, Tyeryar told the class that he owns almost 30 knives that range from $150 to $500. Attendees had the opportunity to slice and dice with a collection of culinary tools.

The entry-level instruction featured hands-on demonstrations including lessons on types of knives, how to hold a knife, sharpen a knife, use a serrated knife, and secure a cutting board. Not only did attendees learn the basics of knife cutting, but they also learn safety tips and sanitation.

With an onion in hand, each member of the class began a series of cuts.

The chef talked to the class about which knives were best for home cooking and how to use them properly. Attendees were also shown how to properly hone a steel knife. Using a knife-hand, Tyeryar restated how keeping a sharp knife is safer and easy on a chef.

“It’s good to learn cooking techniques firsthand,” said Tyeryar a culinary expert with 30 years in the industry.

Cooking Demo and Food Samples is the second class which is slated for Oct. 26. The chef will instruct, while taking queries from the class of 12 students. The lecture also includes basic cooking instructions, where attendees will learn how to make stock and even tips on butchering a whole chicken.

The chef’s vision is to create ongoing classes for different experience levels. For more information on the cooking classes aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico call 703-784-4264.

“Of all the things I’ve learned in my career, I think now is a great time to give back to the military. I have a lot of respect for Marines, and I came here to do something good for the Corps,” said Tyeryar. “Food doesn’t have to be expensive to be good, and when you put love into it you will enjoy it more.”

— Writer: iirby@quanticosentryonline.com