WARREN, Ark. – A free Dutch oven cooking class will be held Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the Bradley County Historical Museum, located at 200 West Ash Street in Warren.
The class, led by Chef Doug Thornton of The Redneck Gourmet, will begin at 10:00 a.m. and is open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to reserve a spot in advance by calling 501-416-7882 to help organizers plan for the group.
The event offers a unique opportunity to learn traditional Dutch oven cooking techniques in a historic setting.
Dutch oven cooking is a method of preparing food using a heavy, thick-walled pot—typically made of cast iron—with a tight-fitting lid. It is often used for slow-cooking stews, baking breads, roasting meats, and creating hearty one-pot meals, traditionally over an open fire or with hot coals placed above and below the pot.
Dutch ovens have a rich history, dating back to the 17th century in the Netherlands, where they were originally cast from brass and later perfected in cast iron. In colonial America, Dutch ovens became an essential tool for settlers and pioneers because of their durability and versatility. They were prized for their ability to cook a wide variety of foods efficiently over an open flame, making them a critical part of early American kitchens and campfires alike. Today, they remain a symbol of traditional cooking and self-sufficiency.
