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SIMPLE LEGUME DRAWS GUESTS TO WOOD RIVER VALLEY CHURCH
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fter the worship service at Wood River Valley Church in Hailey on Feb. 1, head elder John Hall visited with Idaho newcomer Sirouj “Chef K” Khachatourian, a Le Cordon Bleu graduate, about the possibility of offering a cooking class for the community. A few weeks later, a capacity crowd of mostly first-time visitors arrived for a free class and brunch, and they requested more classes be organized, for which they would be happy to pay a fee. “The concept of combining a class and a full meal was like inviting people to a dinner and a show. This is an outstanding way for us to connect with and witness to a wide variety of people in our resort community,” Khachatourian reflected. Khachatourian decided to focus on a couple of recipes using nutrient-rich garbanzos (aka chickpeas), a staple in the diet of his Armenian heritage. Chef K would demonstrate making a basic hummus as well as a spiced garbanzo dish, educating the guests about the benefits of plant-based diets and unprocessed foods per the National Geographic Blue Zones study while he prepared
More online at glnr.in/115-04-id_legume
ed and engaged the guests in a discussion on the selection and preparation of healthy foods. While the kitchen crew was putting together plates with samples of the recipes, questions and answers, as well as ideas for future classes, continued between Chef K and the enthusiastic brunch group. Many took careful notes on the back of the recipe cards and handouts that included Blue Zones dietary guidelines, nutritional benefits of the beverages provided and a map identifying the five Blue Zones around the globe. This was a lay led, planned and staffed event. When pastors are willing to empower, support and unleash the talents of our members, God can make amazing things happen.
Chef K studied at Le Cordon Bleu.
both recipes. “Hummus 101” became the title of the event. Hall’s phone began to ring as enthusiastic people reserved a spot for the class, which was limited to 40 because of the size of the fellowship room. A waiting list had to be created. Four weeks later, as Hall greeted the people from all over the area and from as far away as California. Most of the visitors had never been to an Adventist church. Some admitted going online to learn something about the Adventist Church. A few were delighted to learn Adventists are associated with the Blue Zone study and promote good health and vegetarianism. Chef K mixed ingredients in the Cuisinart and fired up his single burner as he educat-
A flyer shared with the community showcased the world’s Blue Zones.
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The Wood River Valley Church team will soon be following up with those who attended Hummus 101 to begin planning the next cooking class, which might use an online format given the current COVID-19 concerns. From a little legume, extraordinary things could continue to unfold. Stephen McCandless, Wood River Valley Church pastor
