Chef Valarie Carter is set to take the stage at the upcoming Cowboy Chef Table series, hosted by OSU Institute of Technology's Culinary Arts in the State Room on November 8. The lunch and learn will offer more than just delicious dishes. It's an exploration into the artistry of meals using quality ingredients.

A true Okie from Muskogee, Valarie Carter's culinary journey is rooted in her family's farm heritage and a passion for cooking. 

"I've known nearly my whole life that I wanted to be a chef and encourage others about the joys of cooking and eating," she said, reflecting on her culinary beginnings. Carter's background, influenced by her family's farm, her mother's home economics education, and a love for great food, led her to a career in transforming ordinary ingredients into extraordinary culinary experiences.

The Cowboy Chef's Table series allows guests to enjoy a live cooking demonstration featuring a four-course meal prepared by Chef Carter and the skilled OSUIT culinary arts students.

For Carter, cooking is about empowering individuals with practical culinary skills. 

"I believe that cooking is a very practical skill and just as important as being able to do laundry, pump gas, or take care of your yard. Everyone needs to be able to cook on a basic level to care for themselves and others affordably," she said.

Through her expertise, Carter hopes to convey that healthy eating can be exciting and accessible. 

"I hope that students will recognize that quality ingredients and tried and true cooking methods will always trump dishes that rely too heavily on salt, fat, and sugar for flavor," she said. Valarie aims to inspire attendees with every dish, proving that cooking with heart and intention can transform simple ingredients into delicious masterpieces.

The event offers attendees the opportunity to witness Chef Valarie Carter in action while supporting the culinary education of aspiring chefs. Tickets are priced at $20, with all proceeds contributing to scholarships for culinary arts students. To reserve a seat, please visit https://osuit.edu/sash/culinary/chefs-table.php.