Second EMPWR Class at Madison #1: Apple Hand Pies with Chef Mario

Our second EMPWR cooking class at Madison #1 was filled with excitement, creativity, and the sweet aroma of fresh apple pies! We were honored to host a special guest, Chef Mario from The Rez: An Urban Eatery, who brought his expertise to the kitchen.

Chef Mario guided the students through making apple hand pies using blue corn meal—a unique and healthy twist on a classic favorite. Before the baking began, he invited the kids to smell spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, sparking their curiosity and teaching them how scent and flavor are connected.

The kids then rolled out their own dough, filled their pies, and proudly shaped them into individual creations. There was laughter, flour on aprons, and plenty of smiles along the way.

The biggest joy came when everyone sat down to taste their work. The apple hand pies were both nutritious and delicious, showing that healthy food can be just as fun as it is good for you.

We are so grateful to Chef Mario for inspiring our students and helping us celebrate Indigenous ingredients in such an engaging way. This class truly embodied EMPWR’s mission: teaching families to enjoy healthy meals together while honoring cultural traditions.