Set out on a culinary adventure in the heart of Quito with an immersive cooking class that promises to delight your senses. Led by an expert chef, you’ll explore the vibrant Central Market, selecting the freshest local ingredients before delving into the art of preparing three traditional Ecuadorian dishes. With convenient transportation and inclusive amenities, this class caters to foodies of all backgrounds, ensuring a truly memorable experience. Discover the rich flavors and techniques that make Ecuadorian cuisine so captivating, and uncover the stories behind the dishes that have been passed down through generations.

Key Points

  • Comprehensive cooking class in Quito combining a guided market tour and hands-on preparation of three authentic Ecuadorian dishes under the supervision of an expert chef.

  • Includes transportation arrangements, with hotel pickups available, to ensure a convenient and accessible experience for participants.

  • Offers vegetarian and lactose-free options, as well as accommodations for guests with special requirements, ensuring an inclusive and comfortable cooking experience.

  • Cooking class package includes an apron, chef’s hat, lunch, and recipes for participants to recreate the dishes at home.

  • Highly rated 5-star experience, awarded a Badge of Excellence, with overwhelmingly positive customer reviews praising the class’s engaging and educational nature.

Overview of the Cooking Class

The cooking class in Quito offers a comprehensive culinary experience, combining a market tour, hands-on cooking instruction, and the opportunity to savor traditional Ecuadorian dishes with a gourmet twist.

With a morning start time, the class leaves your evenings free for other plans.

Boasting an impressive 5-star rating from 151 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this cooking class promises an immersive learning experience led by skilled chefs.

Participants will explore Quito’s Central Market, select fresh produce, and then craft three authentic Ecuadorian recipes in a colonial building in the historic city center.

The class includes lunch, an apron, chef hat, and recipes to recreate the dishes at home.

The Market Tour Experience

Cooking Class in Quito With Chef, Market Tour and Transportation - The Market Tour Experience

Before heading to the cooking class, participants embark on a guided tour of Quito’s vibrant Central Market, where they’ll handpick the fresh produce that will be used in the recipes. They’ll stroll through the bustling stalls, taking in the sights, sounds, and aromas of local delicacies. The knowledgeable guide will introduce them to unique Ecuadorian ingredients, sharing insights into their origins and culinary applications.

Produce Flavor Profile Cooking Tips
Ají Amarillo Peppers Bright, fruity heat Add to marinades, soups, and stews
Naranjilla Fruit Tart, citrusy sweetness Perfect for juices and desserts
Manchego-Style Cheese Rich, creamy texture Excellent for empanadas and quesadillas
Toasted Quinoa Nutty, earthy crunch Elevate salads and grain dishes

This immersive market tour sets the stage for a hands-on culinary adventure, introducing participants to the vibrant flavors and traditions of Ecuadorian cuisine.

Traditional Ecuadorian Dish Recipes

During the hands-on cooking class, participants dive into preparing three beloved Ecuadorian dishes – each with its own unique flavor profile and traditional preparation method.

First, they’ll master the art of making locro de papa, a savory potato and cheese soup that’s a staple in Quito.

Next, they’ll craft chicken or veggie tamales, wrapping the seasoned fillings in soft corn dough and banana leaves.

Finally, they’ll learn to prepare the vibrant encocado de pescado, a coconut-based fish dish brimming with aromatic spices.

Throughout the class, you will pick up tips and tricks from the expert chef, ensuring they can recreate these authentic Ecuadorian specialties with confidence when they return home.

Included Amenities and Extras

The cooking class package includes a variety of amenities to enhance the overall experience.

Participants receive an apron and chef’s hat to wear during the hands-on cooking session, ensuring they feel the part of a professional chef. Plus, the class provides a complimentary soda or local fruit juice to enjoy throughout the lesson.

Lunch is also included, allowing participants to savor the fruits of their labor. While the class covers the cost of the ingredients used, any additional food or drinks not specified in the package, as well as tips for the chef and guide, aren’t included.

This comprehensive approach ensures guests can fully enjoy the cooking experience without worrying about hidden fees.

Dietary and Accessibility Options

The cooking class caters to guests with various dietary requirements and accessibility needs, ensuring an inclusive experience for all participants.

For those with dietary restrictions, the menu offers lactose-free and vegetarian options, such as the quinoa soup.

The class is also wheelchair accessible, stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome.

To accommodate diverse needs, the organizers work closely with guests to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Here are three key accessibility features of the cooking class:

  1. Wheelchair accessibility throughout the class venue and market tour.

  2. Accommodations for strollers and service animals.

  3. Personalized support for guests with special requirements.

Convenient Transportation Arrangements

Convenient pickup arrangements ensure guests can easily access the cooking class, with hotel pickups in Quito’s urban areas and special provisions for those near the airport. The class is designed with accessibility in mind, accommodating wheelchair users, stroller pushers, and service animal owners.

Pickup Locations Details
Urban Quito Hotels Hotel pickups available
Near Airport Special arrangements provided
Historic Center Walk to market if accommodation nearby

Whether you’re staying in the city center or closer to the airport, getting to the cooking class is hassle-free. The personalized service guarantees a smooth start to your culinary adventure in Quito.

Glowing Customer Testimonials

Overwhelmingly positive reviews speak to the exceptional quality of this cooking class experience in Quito. With an outstanding 5-star rating based on 151 reviews, customers are raving about the warm hospitality of the chefs and the incredible culinary journey.

Three key highlights stand out:

  1. Hands-on cooking lessons that teach traditional Ecuadorian recipes with a gourmet twist, leaving participants eager to recreate the dishes at home.

  2. The personal touch and passion of the instructors, who share insights into local ingredients and culture.

  3. The delicious meals enjoyed during the class, which showcase the flavors of Ecuador in an authentic and memorable way.

These glowing testimonials cement this cooking class as a must-do activity for foodies visiting Quito.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

Pricing for this cooking class experience in Quito starts from $88.00 per person, with the exact cost varying based on the size of the group.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours before the class begins. This flexible arrangement ensures that travelers can adjust their plans without penalty, should unexpected circumstances arise.

The class includes a guided tour of the vibrant Central Market, where you will select fresh local produce to use in the hands-on cooking session.

Along with the delicious meal, participants receive an apron, chef hat, and recipes to recreate the dishes at home, providing a memorable and educational culinary adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum/Maximum Group Size for the Cooking Class?

The experience is a private tour, so the group size can vary. There’s no minimum, and the maximum size depends on the provider’s capacity, typically ranging from 2 to 10 participants to ensure a personalized cooking class.

Can Participants Take Photos/Videos During the Cooking Class?

Participants are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the cooking class. The chefs often encourage documenting the experience, as long as it doesn’t disrupt the flow of the class.

Is the Cooking Class Suitable for Complete Beginners in the Kitchen?

The cooking class is well-suited for complete beginners. Participants will receive hands-on guidance from the chef and take home recipes, making it an excellent opportunity to learn traditional Ecuadorian dishes in a supportive environment, regardless of prior cooking experience.

Can the Chef Accommodate Specific Food Allergies or Restrictions?

The chef can typically accommodate specific food allergies or restrictions with advance notice. They aim to provide a safe, enjoyable cooking experience for all participants, tailoring the menu and preparation accordingly.

How Long Does the Overall Cooking Class Experience Last?

The cooking class experience typically lasts 3-4 hours, including the market tour, hands-on cooking instruction, and enjoying the prepared dishes. The exact duration may vary depending on the menu and pace of the class.

Recap

This Quito cooking class offers a complete culinary adventure.

Guests explore the vibrant Central Market, then craft three traditional Ecuadorian dishes under expert guidance.

Refreshments, inclusive amenities, and convenient transportation ensure a delightful and educational experience for all foodies.

With rave reviews, this class is a must-do for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Quito’s vibrant food culture.