Beginning Dutch Oven Cooking

California Dutch Oven Cookers

Sami Dahdal, Larry Coady and Melissa Yee are the dynamic trio behind California Dutch Oven Cookers.

Sami has been involved in all phases of Boy Scouting in various countries; but cooking with Dutch Ovens is his culinary passion.   His cooking classes, based on his own delicious recipes, have reached a wide audience through activities at his church, Dutch Oven Association presentations, and public schools.  He has led the Southern California Dutch Oven group and been active in National and International organizations for the past 15-20 years.  He is a true Dutch Oven enthusiast.

Larry is a former Boy Scout and present-day rocket scientist, who spent his summers as a young boy at Camp Emerald Bay on Catalina. He has been a member of the Southern California Dutch Oven group for more than 12 years and has been active in National and International organizations. He has taught Dutch Oven cooking to community groups, Girl Scout troops and friends. His ‘day job’ gives him an exceptional perspective on applying the physics of heat.  He is also very aware of the chemistry involved in cooking.

Melissa is a retired Special Ed Biology and Health educator, who now serves as the secretary and “glue” keeping this talented group on track and Facebook page updated. Although she doesn’t consider herself a seasoned Dutch Oven cook, she has extensive experience cooking with Black Pots. She cooks annually for the Yosemite Ski Patrol and has trained ski patrol members to cook using these traditional utensils.