Awamaki Cooking Class

The Awamaki Cooking Class in Ollantaytambo, Cusco, offers an immersive culinary journey into the heart of Peruvian cuisine. Led by local experts Jenny and Ruth, the class provides personalized attention to a maximum of six participants. Guests will explore a vibrant market, uncover unique ingredients, and engage in hands-on preparation of traditional dishes like Causa and Rocoto Relleno. The experience culminates in the creation of the beloved Chicha Morada drink, leaving each participant with a souvenir recipe book to continue their Peruvian culinary adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, this class promises to tantalize your taste buds and deepen your appreciation for the rich gastronomic heritage of Peru.

Key Points

• The Awamaki Cooking Class offers an immersive cultural experience with guided market tours and hands-on Peruvian cuisine workshops led by local experts in Ollantaytambo, Cusco.

• Participants learn to prepare quintessential Peruvian dishes, including Causa (layered potato appetizer), Rocoto Relleno (stuffed pepper main), and Chicha Morada (purple corn drink).

• The class size is limited to six participants to ensure personalized attention and cultural exchange during the cooking and market exploration activities.

• Cooking instructors Jenny and Ruth create a welcoming atmosphere and provide knowledgeable guidance throughout the class, fostering an understanding of Peruvian culinary traditions.

• The class includes transportation, all necessary ingredients, a souvenir recipe book, and has received consistently positive reviews for its immersive cultural experience.

Contents

• Key Points
• Overview of the Cooking Class
• Preparing the Causa Starter
• Crafting the Rocoto Relleno Main
• Mixing the Chicha Morada Drink
• Exploring the Local Market
• Meet the Cooking Instructors
• What’s Included in the Class
• Previous Participant Feedback
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Is Previous Cooking Experience Required for This Class?
• What Is the Dress Code for the Cooking Class?
• Can Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options Be Accommodated?
• How Long Does the Cooking Class Typically Last?
• Is There an Opportunity to Ask Questions During the Class?
• Recap
• Our Top Picks in Cusco
• More Workshops & Classes in Cusco
• More Cooking Classes in Cusco
• More Tour Reviews in Cusco
• Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed

Overview of the Cooking Class

Nestled in the heart of Ollantaytambo, Cusco, the Awamaki Cooking Class offers food-focused travelers an immersive cultural experience.

Led by local guides Jenny and Ruth, the class includes a market tour to discover unique Peruvian ingredients, followed by a hands-on workshop to create traditional dishes.

With a maximum of six participants, the intimate setting allows for personalized attention and cultural exchange.

The menu features Peruvian favorites like Causa, Rocoto Relleno, and Chicha Morada, all prepared under the guidance of the experienced cooking teacher.

Travelers leave with a souvenir recipe book, as well as a deeper understanding of Peruvian cuisine and culinary traditions.

Preparing the Causa Starter

The class often starts with the preparation of the causa starter, a quintessential Peruvian appetizer. This cold dish features layers of creamy, lemony mashed potatoes and either shredded chicken or avocado.

The cooking teacher guides participants through the process, highlighting the importance of selecting the right potatoes and balancing the flavors. First, they mash the cooked potatoes with lemon juice, oil, and seasoning.

Next, they build the layers, alternating the potato mixture with the protein or vegetable filling. Once assembled, the causa is chilled, allowing the flavors to meld.

The class relishes the refreshing, vibrant starter, setting the stage for the more substantial dishes to come.

Crafting the Rocoto Relleno Main

After savoring the refreshing causa starter, the class turns its attention to the Rocoto Relleno, a traditional Peruvian stuffed pepper dish. The cooking teacher, Ruth, demonstrates how to carefully slice, seed, and stuff the fiery rocoto peppers. Travelers work together to mix the savory filling of minced meat, onions, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. As the stuffed peppers bake, the aroma fills the kitchen, whetting appetites. Once golden brown, the Rocoto Relleno is plated and drizzled with a tangy sauce. The class enjoys this beloved Andean specialty, marveling at the balance of heat, flavor, and texture.

Flavor	Spice
Savory	Mild to Medium Heat
Aromatic	Satisfying Warmth

Mixing the Chicha Morada Drink

To conclude the Awamaki cooking class, participants turn their attention to preparing the final dish – the traditional Peruvian refreshment, Chicha Morada.

Under the guidance of the cooking teacher, they learn to mix the lightly sweetened purple corn drink with cinnamon and pineapple.

The class works together to measure the ingredients, boil the corn, and infuse the mixture with fragrant spices.

As the Chicha Morada simmers, the aroma fills the kitchen, whetting their appetites for the final course.

Once ready, everyone enjoys the refreshing, slightly tart beverage, a perfect complement to the hearty Rocoto Relleno they’ve just prepared.

Exploring the Local Market

Piling into the van, the group eagerly anticipates their visit to the local market in Ollantaytambo.

Led by their guide Jenny, they navigate the bustling stalls, taking in the vibrant colors and aromas. From vibrant fruits and vegetables to unique spices and grains, the market overflows with regional specialties.

Jenny points out unfamiliar ingredients like kiwicha and chuño, explaining their cultural significance and traditional uses. The group samples exotic produce, noting the complex flavors.

As they meander through the aisles, they’re struck by the sense of community and tradition pulsing through the market.

This immersive experience provides valuable insight into Peruvian cuisine and culture, setting the stage for the upcoming cooking class.

Meet the Cooking Instructors

As the group arrives at the Awamaki office, they’re greeted by Jenny and Ruth, the friendly hosts who’ll guide them through the cooking class.

Jenny, the English-speaking guide and interpreter, provides an overview of the day’s activities.

Ruth, the local cooking teacher, introduces herself and shares her passion for preserving Peruvian culinary traditions.

Together, they ensure the group feels welcome and well-equipped to embark on the hands-on cooking experience.

The travelers look forward to learning from these knowledgeable instructors and seeing the vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine.

What’s Included in the Class

The Awamaki cooking class includes a comprehensive set of features designed to provide travelers with an immersive and enriching culinary experience.

Travelers will be accompanied by an English-speaking guide and a local cooking teacher, ensuring effective communication throughout the hands-on workshop.

All necessary ingredients for the cooking session are provided, allowing participants to focus on the creation of authentic Peruvian dishes.

Transportation from cities like Urubamba or Cusco, including hotel and train station pickup and dropoff, is also included, making the class easily accessible.

As a memento of the experience, each participant receives a souvenir recipe book to take home and recreate the flavors they’ve discovered.

Previous Participant Feedback

Travelers who’ve experienced the Awamaki cooking class in Ollantaytambo, Peru rave about the exceptional culture and enjoyable cooking experience.

With a perfect 5.0 rating on Viator and TripAdvisor, the class has received overwhelmingly positive feedback. Reviewers highlight the friendly hosts, Jenny and Ruth, as well as the opportunity to visit the local market and learn to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes.

Many travelers recommend the class as a must-do activity during a visit to the Sacred Valley, praising it as a fun and educational addition to their itinerary.

The intimate class size of 6 participants or fewer ensures a personalized experience focused on culture through food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Previous Cooking Experience Required for This Class?

No previous cooking experience is required for this class. The hands-on workshop is designed for all skill levels, with a focus on teaching traditional Peruvian dishes in an intimate, culture setting.

What Is the Dress Code for the Cooking Class?

The dress code for the cooking class is casual and comfortable. Participants should wear clothes they don’t mind getting a bit messy in the kitchen. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety while cooking.

Can Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options Be Accommodated?

The cooking class can accommodate vegetarian and gluten-free diners. Guests should let the organizers know of any dietary requirements when booking, and the menu can be adjusted to suit their needs for an enjoyable, customized culinary experience.

How Long Does the Cooking Class Typically Last?

The cooking class typically lasts around 3 hours. It includes a market tour, hands-on cooking of traditional Peruvian dishes, and time to enjoy the prepared meal with the local hosts and fellow travelers.

Is There an Opportunity to Ask Questions During the Class?

Yes, the class provides ample opportunity for travelers to ask questions throughout the hands-on cooking session. The knowledgeable local guide and cooking teacher are happy to address any queries about the recipes, ingredients, or Peruvian culinary traditions.

Recap

The Awamaki Cooking Class offers an immersive journey into Peruvian cuisine. Participants learn to prepare classic dishes, discover local ingredients, and gain insights into the country’s culinary heritage. Led by expert instructors Jenny and Ruth, the class provides personalized attention and a memorable hands-on experience that leaves guests with a deeper appreciation for Peruvian food culture.