Amagansett Food Institute Hosting “Living Pizza” Class And Wine Tasting

The Amagansett Food Institute is cooking up a special treat for foodies around the Hamptons this summer, as they launch their first fermentation class of the season on Wednesday, August 3rd from 5 to 7 p.m. The class, which will be held at the Amagansett Farmers Market, will be a two-hour event focused on the winemaking fermentation process, and the art of wood fire oven cooking.

“Fermentation in the simplest of terms is the process by which beneficial bacteria convert sugars and starches into lactic acid. In the process, it not only creates new vitamins and probiotics but also makes the other nutrients more easily digestible and bioavailable,” explained Adam Kelinson of Around the Fire Catering, who will lead the event. “This makes the pizza a more nutritively balanced product with more complex flavors, and deeper more brilliant color when cooked.”

During the class, Kelinson will showcase the benefits and applications of fermentation, particularly with “living pizza” dough. Throughout the evening, Kelinson will go over topics such as managing a sourdough starter, preparing dough and dough balls, as well as providing a comprehensive how-to of wood fired ovens, covering everything from how to start the fire to maintaining the temperature.

“The workshop will touch on several points, focusing on the art of fermentation and how it lends to ‘living pizza’. We will go over the process of making the fermented dough, flour choices, and the importance of local food and ingredients,” added Kelinson. “From there we will discuss the specifics involved in using a wood fire oven—including lighting the oven and a broader discussion of what makes this type of cooking so unique.”

Following the demonstration, Tyler Armstrong will cover fermentation in winemaking and attendees will be treated to a wine tasting.

The Amagansett Food Institute is a non-profit organization that supports farmers and food producers on the East End of Long Island.

Tickets for the event are $85, and include wine, a pizza tasting, and a take home dough starter. They can be purchased by emailing [email protected] or visiting the Amagansett Farmers Market.

The Amagansett Farmers Market is located at 367 Main Street in Amagansett. For more information, visit amagansettfoodinstitute.org.