Plum’s Cooking Company opened in 1986 in Sioux Falls under Caroline Peterson, becoming a regional destination for beginner and expert cooks.
Thirty years later, Penny Klinedinst, who owned neighboring business Simply Perfect, purchased Plum’s after hearing Peterson was retiring.
“Today, Plum’s Cooking Co. hosts a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen to teach a variety of culinary classes, along with high- quality kitchen tools,” said Lizzie Stewart, class manager of Plum’s Cooking School.
The business exists to help customers grow their love for the culinary arts, no matter where they are in their cooking journey.
The classes range from Classic Comfort Food, Hands-On Sushi, Four-Course Date Night, European Delight, and more.
When Stewart first discovered Plum’s, she knew she wanted to be involved in the women-owned business.
“I have so much love for the store itself,” said Stewart. “I went all in and learned about the culture of Plum’s Cooking Company.”
Now, Stewart shares her culinary expertise through an abundance of classes, demonstrating her love and passion to those who attend the courses she leads.
This summer, Stewart will be instructing various Kids Camps to introduce kids to the culinary world.
Kids from ages 6 to 17 will have the opportunity to learn about basic skills in the kitchen, tips and cooking techniques, and create delicious meals and treats along the way.
Learn more about the chef, from her favorite classes, tools in the kitchen, and her hobbies.
1. What are your favorite classes to instruct?
Right now, I’m loving all of our Hands-On offerings, teaching small groups everything from pastries and sourdough to gorgeous pasta.
2. What’s your favorite part about instructing Kids Camps?
What I love about teaching Kids Camps is the growth we see so quickly in our small students. They start on day one not really sure of themselves or what to expect from the class, and then they quickly gain confidence and start opening up and become so creative! They can’t wait to go home and share their day and recipes with their families. It is so rewarding to get to spend the summer with these amazing kids!
3. What are your go-to tools in the kitchen?
I must have a Dutch oven, a great knife, and a cast iron pan.
State of the Art Kids Camps
+ Kids Baking (ages 9-12)
+ Kids Farm to Table (ages 9-12)
+ Kids Flavors of The World (ages 9-12)
+ Kids Little Foodies (ages 6-8)
+ Teen Flavors of The World (ages 13-17)
+ The Great Sioux Falls Young Chef Competition (ages 16-18)
4. Where’s your favorite restaurant in Sioux Falls?
This is a hard question, but I would have to say Look’s Marketplace.
5. What are your hobbies outside of cooking?
Well, I absolutely love cooking, but outside of that, I enjoy gardening.
