Maple Leaf Farms started as a small duck operation in rural Milford in 1958 and today dominates the North American duck market.

Never having forgotten its roots, the company remains in operation locally and, in October 2011, located its world corporate headquarters in Leesburg. In the corporate headquarters exists a state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen and company store where patrons will be able to purchase the company’s duck and down products.

In the state-of-the-art kitchen, Maple Leaf Farms periodically hosts cooking demonstrations, allowing attendees to learn techniques for cooking duck and be introduced to new products. Last week, such a demonstration took place with Chef Eric Braun.

In August 2012, Chef Eric won third place in an international recipe contest for professional chefs. He has also had the privilege of serving meals to sports legends such as Mickey Mantle and Franco Harris; entertainers including Jose Feliciano, Tim Conway and Pat Harrington; and politicians Congressman J.C. Watts, Congressman Lee Hamilton and Senator Orin Hatch. Today, Chef Eric continues to provide private clients with gourmet, seven course meals prepared in their homes and served to their guests.

The cooking demonstrations or “Chef Shows” held by Maple Leaf demonstrate culinary skills used in the kitchen or grill. The “Hands On” cooking classes allow participants opportunities to practice themed cuisine preparation from start to finish.

Last week’s demonstration allowed the participants to see how to prepare duck breast rumaki with blackberry brandy sauce, duck meatballs in orange sauce and mashed sweet potato martini with pan-seared duck breast.

To inquire about upcoming cooking demonstrations, contact Maple Leaf Farms.