Dumpling Workshop with Lani Chan at Gold Ridge Organic Farms

You'll start by making the dough using heirloom grain flours grown by our Sebastopol neighbor Farmer Mai, who will be on hand to share the story behind their remarkable grains. From there, you'll form and cook vegetarian dumplings, learn to make scallion pancakes, and pair everything with Hei Ma chili crisp and a special dipping sauce made with Gold Ridge Organic Farms Apple Cider Balsamic Vinegar. 
 
The experience begins with a ride aboard our apple-themed trolley out to the Apple Cottage, where the class will take place surrounded by the beauty of the farm. Each guest will receive an apple-blossom pink apron to take home and enjoy a refreshing citrus shrub alongside their freshly made dumplings. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a first-time dumpling maker, this is an experience you won't forget — good food, great company, and a deeper connection to the ingredients grown right here in Sonoma County.
 
Lani Chan is the co-founder of Hei Ma (formerly known as Big Spoon Sauce Co.), a Sonoma County-based small-batch sauce brand rooted in Chinese culinary tradition and peak-season California produce. What began as a chili crisp project in a Brooklyn apartment in 2019 has grown into a community-driven food brand celebrated for its bold flavors and cultural heart. 
 
Mai Nguyen is an award-winning heirloom grain farmer, miller, seed keeper, and community organizer based right here in Sebastopol. In 2024, their work was recognized with the prestigious James Beard Leadership Award for their contributions to sustainability, equity, and justice in food systems, collaborating with communities and coalitions to shape food policy that uplifts marginalized farmers and promotes land sovereignty.