Rachel Kaufman

Rachel Kaufman

New
New

About

Hi all! My name is Rachel, and I’m so excited to share my love of cooking with you. I’ve spent two years teaching kids’ cooking classes and another two years incorporating cooking and baking into therapy sessions with children. Before that, I ran my own micro bakery, where I managed everything from recipe development to business operations. My background in both culinary arts and therapy has given me a deep appreciation for the way cooking can be a source of joy, creativity, and connection.

What It’s Like to Work With Me:

Cooking with me is all about exploration, fun, and learning in a way that feels natural and engaging. I bring storytelling, humor, and play into the kitchen—thanks to my background in theatre—so lessons are never just about following a recipe, but about engaging with food in a meaningful and imaginative way. Whether we’re pretending to be chefs on a cooking show, creating a story around a dish, or turning a mistake into a hilarious learning moment, I make sure the process is as enjoyable as the final product.

I also believe in fostering a healthy relationship with food. I take a balanced, intuitive approach—there are no “good” or “bad” foods, just nourishment in different forms. My passion for health and wellness means I love teaching students how to create meals that make them feel good, both physically and emotionally. Food is about more than just eating—it’s about connection, culture, self-expression, and care.

Why I’ll Be an Excellent Teacher:

With my experience teaching kids, using cooking as a therapeutic tool, and running my own bakery, I bring a mix of professional knowledge, practical skills, and a deep love for the kitchen. I understand how to make cooking accessible to all skill levels while keeping it engaging, creative, and fun. My background in theatre helps me bring energy and storytelling into lessons, making even the most basic techniques feel exciting. And above all, I create a welcoming environment where everyone feels encouraged to experiment, make mistakes, and grow.


Highlights

1 employee
Serves Skokie , IL

Specialties

Student age(s)

Child (under 13), Teenager (13 – 18)

Interested cuisines

American, Japanese, Chinese / Asian, Indian, BBQ, Italian, French, Mediterranean, Mexican / Latin, Healthy, Vegetarian / vegan

Desired cooking skills

Basic cooking skills, Knife skills, Soups and sauces, Baking - bread, Baking - desserts and pastries

Food allergies / dietary restrictions

No

Number of people

1 person, 2 people, 3 – 5 people, 6 – 10 people

Recipe difficulty

Beginner

No reviews (yet)

Ask this teacher for references. There's no obligation to hire and we’re here to help your booking go smoothly.

Services offered

Cooking