Cooking Class Preparing Colombian Empanadas

Discovering the art of crafting authentic Colombian empanadas can be a delightful culinary adventure. In Medellín, a unique cooking class immerses participants in the traditional techniques behind this beloved dish. Hosted in a cozy family home, the intimate experience not only teaches the hands-on skills but also offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Colombian cuisine. With expert guidance and a convivial atmosphere, this class promises an engaging and flavorful journey for any food enthusiast seeking to expand their culinary horizons. What makes this experience truly special, however, goes beyond the empanadas themselves.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Cooking Classes In Medellin.

Key Points

• The cooking class offers an authentic Colombian culinary experience, focusing on the preparation of traditional empanadas with hands-on guidance from experienced instructors.
• The class accommodates dietary preferences, including vegetarian options, and promotes immersion in Colombian culinary traditions through an engaging and interactive atmosphere.
• The class is held in a cozy family home setting in the Belén district of Medellín, easily accessible within 10-15 minutes by car.
• The class has received an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 12 reviews, indicating high satisfaction among participants.
• The experience is operated by Colombia Experiences, a company specializing in authentic cultural activities in Medellín, and is available on both Airbnb Experiences and Viator.

Overview of the Cooking Class

For those seeking an authentic Colombian culinary experience, this highly-rated cooking class in Medellín promises an interactive journey into the art of preparing traditional empanadas.

Hosted in a family home, this engaging session provides participants with hands-on guidance as they learn to craft these beloved savory pastries.

With a maximum of 6 travelers, the class offers an intimate, immersive setting, earning a stellar 4.9 rating from 12 reviews.

Priced at COP 150,000 (around USD 36) per person, the class includes snacks, local beer, and welcome drinks, making it a well-rounded cultural and gastronomic experience.

Class Details

The class accommodates a maximum of 6 travelers, catering to vegetarian preferences as needed.

Participants actively learn to prepare empanadas under the guidance of experienced instructors, while enjoying snacks, local beer, and welcome drinks throughout the session.

This interactive experience allows visitors to enjoy the culinary traditions of Colombia, as they master the techniques of making authentic empanadas.

The intimate class setting fosters a fun and engaging atmosphere, where participants can ask questions, share insights, and collaborate with their fellow cooks.

Location and Meeting Point

The cooking class takes place at an address in Medellín, just a short distance from the popular neighborhoods of Laureles and El Poblado.

You’ll find the location at Cra. 73 #20a-22, in the Belén district. It’s only a 10-minute drive from Laureles and 15 minutes from El Poblado, making it easily accessible for most travelers.

Once the class ends, you’ll return to the same meeting point where you started.

The location provides a cozy, intimate setting for the interactive cooking experience in a family home, allowing you to fully learn about the local culture and cuisine.

Reviews and Feedback

According to reviews, the cooking class has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 12 reviews.

Participants have praised the friendliness of the hosts and the valuable learning experience, but some have noted issues with the class size and space constraints, feeling it was at times crowded.

Positive comments highlight the fun atmosphere and culture, with reviewers appreciating the opportunity to learn how to prepare authentic Colombian empanadas.

While the majority of feedback is favorable, a few critiques suggest the class size could be better managed to provide a more comfortable and intimate experience.

Booking and Accessibility

Booking for the Colombian empanada cooking class is confirmed at the time of reservation. The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are permitted.

Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours before the scheduled event without any penalties.

The class is operated by Colombia Experiences, a company that initially launched the offering on Airbnb Experiences and has since expanded to Viator.

While the class itself may feel a bit cramped due to the intimate group size, it provides a fun and immersive cultural experience.

Participants should be prepared to get hands-on in the kitchen, learning to prepare traditional Colombian empanadas under the guidance of the host.

Cancellation Policy

Customers can cancel their reservation for the Colombian empanada cooking class up to 24 hours before the scheduled event without incurring any fees. This flexible cancellation policy allows travelers to adjust their plans if needed, without worrying about losing their money.

The class organizers understand that plans can change, and they want to accommodate their guests as best they can. This policy helps ensure that the cooking experience is enjoyable and stress-free for everyone involved.

Customers can feel confident in booking the class, knowing that they have the option to cancel if necessary. The flexible cancellation policy is just one of the many thoughtful details that make this cooking class a stand-out experience.

Experience Operator

The Colombian empanada cooking class is operated by Colombia Experiences, a local tour company that specializes in authentic cultural experiences in Medellín. This company has a strong reputation in the region for providing immersive and hands-on activities that allow visitors to truly engage with the local way of life.

Colombia Experiences was founded in 2015 with the goal of showcasing the vibrant culture and traditions of Medellín. The company partners with local families and home cooks to offer unique cooking classes, walking tours, and other experiences that go beyond the typical tourist attractions.

Participants consistently praise the personalized attention and warm hospitality provided by the Colombia Experiences team. The empanada cooking class is one of the company’s most popular offerings, allowing guests to learn this iconic Colombian dish directly from a skilled home chef.

Platform History

The Colombian empanada cooking class first launched on Airbnb Experiences, a platform that allows local hosts to offer unique, immersive activities to travelers.

The class quickly gained popularity and positive reviews, which led the organizers to expand their offering to Viator, a well-known online marketplace for booking tours and activities.

By leveraging these two prominent platforms, the cooking class has been able to reach a wider audience of food-loving travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences in Medellín.

The class’s adaptability and its ability to provide a memorable culinary adventure have contributed to its success across different booking channels, making it a popular choice for those eager to learn the art of making traditional Colombian empanadas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Skill Level Required to Attend the Cooking Class?

The skill level required to attend the cooking class is beginner-friendly. The class is designed for participants with no prior experience, providing guided instruction to learn the process of preparing the dishes.

Are Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated Beyond Vegetarian Options?

The cooking class accommodates dietary restrictions beyond just vegetarian options. According to the details, participants can expect customized options to suit their needs, ensuring an inclusive and personalized learning experience.

Are Participants Expected to Clean up After the Cooking Session?

Participants generally aren’t expected to clean up after the cooking session. The class includes snacks, drinks, and hands-on preparation, with the host handling the cleanup responsibilities to provide a relaxed, immersive experience for guests.

What Is the Duration of the Cooking Class?

The cooking class typically lasts around 2-3 hours. Participants learn to prepare empanadas under the guidance of the instructor and have the opportunity to enjoy the dishes and drinks they’ve made during the interactive session.

Can Participants Take the Leftover Empanadas Home With Them?

Participants can take any leftover empanadas they prepare during the class home with them. The class provides the opportunity to enjoy the fruits of one’s labor and share the experience with family or friends.

Recap

This authentic Colombian cooking class offers a unique opportunity to learn the traditional art of making empanadas.

With hands-on guidance from experienced instructors and a cozy family setting, participants can enjoy the country’s rich culinary heritage.

Highly rated for its engaging atmosphere and friendly hosts, this class is a must-try for anyone seeking to explore the flavors of Colombia in an interactive and enjoyable way.