Sonoma Family Meal and Chef Camille Western invite you to experience the depth, soul, and deliciousness of Puerto Rican cuisine through a hands-on, collaborative 2.5 hour cooking class inspired by her Puerto Rica roots. Puerto Rican food is a beautiful expression of cultural fusion, shaped by Spanish, African, and native Taíno influences that come together in bold flavors, comforting dishes, and a rich culinary tradition. From savory sofrito and plantains to slow-cooked classics and vibrant seasonings, each dish tells a story of heritage, resilience, and celebration. You will enjoy a family meal together at the end.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this class will offer a fun, engaging learning environment, while raising funds for Sonoma Family Meal’s free culinary job training and food-security programs. If you haven’t been to the SFM Kitchen yet, this class is also the perfect chance to visit and experience where the magic takes place and how the work gets done.

WHEN: Thursday May 14th, 5-7:30pm
WHERE: SFM community kitchen, 1370A Redwood Way, Petaluma

***PLEASE WEAR CLOSE TOED SHOES TO ALL CLASSES***

THE MENU:

• Avocado Salad - Fresh avocado with Spanish olive oil, red onions and a touch of salt

• Fried Plantains - Crisp, golden plantains served warm

• Arroz Mamposteao - Savory rice and beans infused with sofrito and garlic

• Camarones al Ajillo - Shrimp sautéed in garlic, peppers, olive oil, and spices

• Tres leches - Silky sweet cake with a creamy, delicate sweetness

If you have a specific food allergy or have any questions about the menu, please contact hannah@sonomafamilymeal.org.

ABOUT THE CHEF:

Private Chef Camille creates wellness-inspired dining experiences that bring people together through vibrant, nourishing food. Her menus are inspired by California, Italian, Spanish, Mexican, Asian, and Cuban-Puerto Rican flavors, with vegan and Whole30 options thoughtfully tailored to each gathering. Based in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, she offers private chef dinners and cooking experiences for groups of 2–50 guests. For a more interactive celebration, guests can step into the kitchen and learn how to prepare part of the meal alongside her.

Camille’s broader work is dedicated to helping people feel good in their bodies through massage therapy, nourishing food, and holistic lifestyle coaching. She approaches wellness from an Ayurvedic perspective that honors the connection between body, mind, and energy. Camille’s path into the healing arts began through her own health challenges in her late twenties. Struggling to find balance, her doctor encouraged her to make changes to her diet and lifestyle. That experience became a turning point that awakened her deep interest in the healing power of nutrition, self-care, and holistic living.

For over 30 years now, she has studied and practiced the healing arts, with certifications in Holistic Nutrition Consulting, Massage Therapy, Traditional Thai Massage, and Thai Herbalism, along with ongoing study of yoga and Ayurvedic traditions. Today, she supports clients through massage therapy, lifestyle coaching, and practical tools such as meditation, herbs, aromatherapy, and mindful nutrition—helping them restore balance and cultivate lasting wellbeing.

Learn more at SoulSpiceWellness.com.