Cooking Class With Yassine & Mom

Marrakech’s culinary scene beckons with a captivating Cooking Class With Yassine & Mom. Guests embark on a vibrant souk exploration, handpicking the freshest ingredients before returning to the kitchen. There, under the guidance of local experts, they’ll craft beloved Moroccan dishes like caramelized carrots and the signature slow-cooked tanjia. The class promises a deeper appreciation for the art of Moroccan cooking and the confidence to recreate these mouthwatering specialties. What secrets will the class unveil about this rich culinary tradition?

Key Points

• Immersive Moroccan cooking class led by Yassine and his mother, offering hands-on experience in preparing traditional dishes like caramelized carrots, zaalouk, and chicken with preserved lemon.

• Opportunity to learn time-honored Moroccan culinary techniques, including slow-cooking in a tanjia pot and crafting beloved desserts like milk pastiya and orange-based sweets.

• Exploration of Moroccan culture and traditions through the lens of food, from the vibrant Marrakech souk to the ritual of serving mint tea.

• Personalized guidance from experienced instructors, ensuring participants gain confidence and mastery in recreating the authentic flavors of Morocco.

• Convenient booking with real-time confirmation, flexible policies, and an intimate class size for a tailored and enjoyable cooking experience.

Marrakech Souk Shopping Trip

The cooking class begins with a trip to the local Marrakech souk, where the guide leads the group to browse the vibrant stalls and select the fresh ingredients needed for the day’s Moroccan meal.

The group wanders through the bustling marketplace, senses heightened by the aromas of spices, the colors of the produce, and the lively chatter of the vendors. The guide points out the best cuts of meat, the ripest vegetables, and the most fragrant herbs, offering tips on how to choose the highest quality items.

With ingredients in hand, the group is ready to head back to the kitchen and begin the hands-on cooking experience.

Preparing Caramelized Carrots

With ingredients gathered at the lively Marrakech souk, the group now turns its attention to preparing the first dish – caramelized carrots.

Carrots are peeled, sliced, and tossed with a mixture of honey, olive oil, and spices before being roasted to perfection.

The group learns that this simple yet delightful dish:

• Showcases the vibrant flavors of Moroccan cuisine
• Requires minimal prep work for maximum impact
• Can be served as a side or incorporated into larger meals
• Highlights the versatility of locally-sourced seasonal produce

As the aroma of caramelized carrots fills the air, the group eagerly awaits the chance to savor this authentic Moroccan delicacy.

Crafting Zaalouk and Zucchini Charmoula

Yassine guides the group through crafting two additional Moroccan appetizers – Zaalouk and Zucchini Charmoula.

Zaalouk, a smoky eggplant dip, requires deftly chopping and blending roasted eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, and spices.

Meanwhile, the vibrant Zucchini Charmoula features julienned zucchini tossed in a fragrant marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, cilantro, and cumin.

The class carefully follows Yassine’s step-by-step instructions, ensuring each dish’s flavors meld harmoniously.

As the aromas fill the air, the group can’t wait to savor the results of their culinary collaboration.

With Yassine’s expert guidance, they’ve mastered the art of preparing these beloved Moroccan starters.

Cooking Chicken With Preserved Lemon

After mastering the art of the appetizers, the group now turns its attention to the main course – Chicken with Preserved Lemon.

Yassine explains that this dish showcases the bright, tangy flavors of preserved lemon, a Moroccan pantry staple. As the chicken simmers away, releasing its aromatic juices, the group learns that this dish is more than just a meal – it’s a reflection of Moroccan culture and tradition.

The preserved lemon, Yassine shares, is a symbol of:

• Resourcefulness – utilizing every part of the fruit
• Patience – the months-long curing process
• Simplicity – letting the ingredients shine
• Celebration – brightening up even the most humble of dishes

Mastering Tanjia Marrakchiya

Next, the group learns the secrets to crafting the signature Tanjia Marrakchiya, a beloved Moroccan slow-cooked meat dish.

Traditionally prepared in a specialized clay pot called a tanjia, this succulent dish simmers for hours, transforming tough cuts of meat into melt-in-your-mouth delicacies.

Yassine guides the class through each step, from seasoning the meat with a blend of aromatic spices to carefully layering the ingredients in the tanjia.

The group watches in anticipation as the pot is sealed and placed over hot coals, allowing the flavors to meld together over time.

With patience and care, the students will soon master the art of creating this quintessential Moroccan masterpiece.

Creating Milk Pastiya and Orange Desserts

With the savory mains out of the way, the group now turns its attention to the sweet conclusion of the meal – mastering the art of creating milk pastiya and orange-based desserts.

Yassine and his mother guide the class through the delicate process, emphasizing the importance of precise measurements and gentle handling.

As the milk pastiya begins to take shape, the group learns the significance of this traditional Moroccan treat, representing hospitality and generosity.

The fragrant orange slices, dusted with cinnamon, evoke a sense of warmth and comfort.

By the end of the session, the group not only has a deeper appreciation for Moroccan cuisine but also a newfound confidence in crafting these beloved desserts.

• Milk pastiya – a symbol of Moroccan hospitality
• Orange desserts – a reflection of the country’s vibrant flavors
• Precision and care – essential in traditional Moroccan cooking
• Sense of accomplishment – mastering the art of these sweet delights

Savoring Moroccan Mint Tea

As the cooking class comes to a close, Yassine and his mother proudly serve their signature Moroccan mint tea, a time-honored tradition that perfectly caps off the flavorful journey. This fragrant, soothing beverage is an integral part of Moroccan culture, often enjoyed during social gatherings, business meetings, and everyday life.

The preparation of Moroccan mint tea is as much an art as it is a ritual. Yassine carefully selects the freshest mint leaves, blends them with high-quality green tea, and infuses the mixture with just the right amount of sugar. The result is a perfectly balanced, aromatic elixir that invites guests to savor each sip.

Steeping Time	Serving Temperature	Sugar Ratio
5-7 minutes	195-205°F (91-96°C)	1-2 tsp per cup
Mint Leaves	Tea Type	Presentation
Fresh, young	Gunpowder green tea	Ornate silver teapot and glasses
Spearmint or peppermint	Loose leaf or tea bags	Decorative tray with sugar cubes

Booking Details and Policies

Travelers can easily book the Cooking Class with Yassine & Mom through the provided reservation system, which offers convenient confirmation at the time of booking.

This hands-on culinary experience is wheelchair/stroller accessible and near public transportation, making it accessible to a wide range of guests. Infants are welcome, with infant seats available upon request.

The class has a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized learning environment.

Plus, a 24-hour cancellation policy is in place, allowing for a full refund should plans change unexpectedly.

With these thoughtful booking details and flexible policies, the Cooking Class with Yassine & Mom promises a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for the Cooking Class?

The group size for the cooking class is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers. This keeps the class intimate and allows for personalized attention from the local guide during the step-by-step Moroccan meal preparation.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Options Available?

The cooking class offers vegetarian and vegan options. The menu includes starters like caramelized carrots and Zaalouk, as well as mains such as Tanjia Marrakchiya. Accommodations can be made for dietary preferences.

Can the Class Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The cooking class can accommodate dietary restrictions. The local guide works closely with participants to customize the menu and ensure a fulfilling experience for those with special dietary needs.

What Is the Dress Code for the Cooking Class?

The cooking class has a relaxed, casual dress code. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Participants don’t need to dress up, as the focus is on the hands-on cooking experience in a laid-back setting.

Is Transportation to and From the Class Provided?

Transportation to and from the cooking class is not provided. Participants are responsible for making their own arrangements to get to and from the class location. The class includes all necessary cooking activities and materials at the venue.

Recap

Cooking Class with Yassine & Mom offers an immersive exploration of Moroccan cuisine.

Guests discover vibrant flavors, time-honored techniques, and the art of traditional dishes.

From souk shopping to hands-on cooking, the class provides a comprehensive experience that leaves participants with a deeper appreciation for Moroccan culinary traditions and the confidence to recreate these specialties at home.