Dash of Soy is a local Seattle culinary school founded by Elaine Sher in 2019, specializing in simple, delicious, and healthy home-cooking inspired by her childhood, family traditions, and her world travels. Elaine left the corporate world in 2017 after 20 years in technology marketing to travel solo and eventually returned to Seattle to pursue her passion for a simpler lifestyle. Born and raised in Hong Kong, Elaine has lived in Canada and US for ~30 years and traveled to ~50 countries. She grew up with authentic Chinese and pan-Asian food, is familiar with the ingredients and palettes of North America, and has developed a deep appreciation for food cultures around the world.

Dash of Soy cooking classes are highly sort after and are featured on Seattle’s Bucket List. Elaine is also a guest instructor for these well-respected cooking schools in Seattle: The Pantry, PCC Markets, and Book Larder.

Dash of Soy is committed to donating at least 10% of all fees collected to charities founded by and/or serving BIPOC, womxn, and LGBTQIA+ communities. Charities supported in the past include Skate Journeys, ACRS, etc.

Dash of Soy cooking classes are truly one-of-a-kind. They are always hands-on and in small-group settings, whether it is an online, in-person, or hybrid class. All the classes are designed to normalize and introduce classic Asian flavors into everyday cooking.

Besides being a cooking instructor, Elaine is also an artist who creates beautifully hand-drawn and step-by-step recipes for many dishes that she teaches. She also accepts the occasional commission to create pet portraits.

Dash of Soy is proudly located in the historic, industrial-chic Georgetown of Seattle. So come for the cooking classes, but stay to explore this unique and lesser-known neighborhood of Seattle!