Cusco: Peruvian Cooking Class, Cocktails & Local Market Tour

This Cusco culinary experience offers an immersive dive into the vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine. Guests will explore a lively local market, craft refreshing cocktails, and learn to prepare beloved national dishes under the guidance of an expert chef. Beyond the tantalizing tastes, this 4-hour adventure also provides a rich cultural narrative, allowing participants to uncover the stories and traditions that shape Peruvian gastronomy. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, this class promises to elevate your appreciation for the country’s diverse culinary heritage. But what secrets might the chef reveal about the origins of these beloved Peruvian specialties?

Key Points

• Immersive 4-hour culinary experience in Cusco, including a tour of the San Pedro Market and hands-on cooking of traditional Peruvian dishes.
• Participants craft two Peruvian cocktails, the classic Pisco Sour and the ginger-infused Chilcano de Pisco, during the class.
• Prepare three traditional Peruvian dishes: cebiche, causa limeña, and quinoa tamal, under the guidance of Chef Jesus.
• Enjoy a sweet treat of Picarones, traditional Peruvian doughnuts, along with the Chicha Morada drink to conclude the culinary adventure.
• Accommodates various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, with high customer satisfaction and value.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Experience

This Cusco Cooking Class and Local Market Tour offers an immersive culinary experience, allowing participants to explore the vibrant San Pedro Market, craft two refreshing Peruvian cocktails, and learn to prepare three traditional Peruvian dishes under the guidance of a professional chef.

Priced from $65 per person, the 4-hour experience is limited to 10 participants and available in Spanish and English. Guests can enjoy the sweet treat of Picarones with honey, as well as Chicha Morada drink and water.

Dietary options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free, are available, though the experience isn’t suitable for children under 16.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is offered for a full refund.

Exploring San Pedro Market

Situated at the heart of Cusco, the San Pedro Market is one of the oldest and most vibrant marketplaces in the city.

Locals and visitors alike flock to its bustling stalls, which overflow with a dazzling array of exotic fruits, local cheeses, cacao, quinoa, and much more.

Weaving through the lively crowds, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the sights, sounds, and aromas of this authentic Peruvian shopping experience.

From haggling with vendors to learning about the cultural significance of the diverse produce on offer, this market exploration promises to be a highlight of the Cusco cooking class experience.

Craft Peruvian Cocktails

Participants craft two refreshing Peruvian cocktails during the class, seeing the vibrant flavors and cultural traditions behind these iconic drinks.

Under the guidance of the expert chef, they learn to prepare a classic Pisco Sour, a frothy and tangy cocktail made with Peruvian pisco, lime juice, egg white, and simple syrup.

The class also explores the preparation of a Chilcano de Pisco, a lighter, ginger-infused pisco drink.

As they mix and taste these cocktails, participants gain an appreciation for the nuances of Peruvian spirits and the artistry involved in crafting the perfect accompaniment to the traditional dishes they’ll learn to prepare.

Prepare Traditional Dishes

As the cooking class progresses, participants explore the preparation of three traditional Peruvian dishes – cebiche, causa limeña, and quinoa tamal.

Under the guidance of Chef Jesus, they learn the intricate steps involved in each dish. For cebiche, they’ll learn to expertly cure fresh fish in citrus juices and season it with Peruvian spices.

The causa limeña, a layered potato and avocado dish, requires precise stacking and seasoning techniques.

Finally, they’ll craft the quinoa tamal, a savory wrapped package of seasoned quinoa.

Throughout the process, Chef Jesus shares cultural insights about the ingredients and cooking methods, enhancing the participants’ understanding of Peruvian culinary traditions.

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Enjoy Picarones for Dessert

As a fitting conclusion to the cooking class, participants savor the sweet and crispy delight of Picarones.

These traditional Peruvian doughnuts are made from a squash or sweet potato-based dough, which is then deep-fried and drizzled with a sweet, aromatic syrup.

The chef explains that Picarones originated in the colonial era, when enslaved Africans combined their fritter-making techniques with local ingredients.

Theres some good the sugar-free option, or enjoy the classic version with a drizzle of honey.

The satisfying treat provides a perfect ending to the hands-on culinary adventure, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for Cusco’s rich food culture.

Engage With Chef Jesus

The cooking class experience is enlivened by Chef Jesus, whose warm personality and engaging storytelling captivate participants. He provides step-by-step guidance throughout the cooking and cocktail-making sessions, sharing cultural insights that deepen the immersive experience.

Chef Jesus’ expertise and passion for Peruvian cuisine shine through as he:

• Explains the historical significance and traditional preparation methods of each dish
• Encourages participants to interact with the ingredients, fostering a hands-on, educational atmosphere
• Infuses the class with his infectious enthusiasm, making the experience both informative and enjoyable

His approachable demeanor and willingness to answer questions create a welcoming environment, allowing participants to fully enjoy the flavors and traditions of Cusco’s vibrant culinary culture.

Dietary Options Available

Frequently, the cooking class accommodates a variety of dietary needs, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menus to cater to participants’ preferences.

The vegetarian option excludes meat but includes local produce, legumes, and grains. The vegan menu omits all animal-derived ingredients, focusing on plant-based options.

Plus, the gluten-free menu substitutes traditional grains like wheat with alternatives like quinoa, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can fully enjoy the culinary experience.

The chef takes great care to prepare each dish in a way that preserves the authentic flavors while meeting various dietary requirements.

This inclusive approach allows everyone to savor the Peruvian cuisine safely and comfortably.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the immersive Cusco cooking class and market tour, reflected in its impressive 5/5 overall rating based on 169 reviews.

The experience earns high marks for its value, with a 4.9/5 rating in this category. Guests highlighted the quality of the food and drinks, as well as the chef’s engaging storytelling that brought the local culture to life.

Suggestions for improvement included the need for better audio equipment during the market tour, to ensure all participants could fully enjoy the lively atmosphere.

The class receives glowing reviews for its:

• Immersive, hands-on experience
• Delicious Peruvian cuisine and cocktails
• Knowledgeable, personable chef

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Cooking Class?

The dress code for the cooking class is casual and comfortable. Participants should wear clothing that they don’t mind getting messy, as they’ll be hands-on in the kitchen. No formal attire is required.

Can the Class Be Customized for Private Groups?

The cooking class can be customized for private groups. The provider offers the flexibility to tailor the experience to the group’s needs, such as specific dietary requirements or group size preferences, upon request.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The cooking class is not suitable for children under 16 years old. Adults of all ages can participate in the hands-on cooking, cocktail-making, and market tour experience.

Is Transportation to the Meeting Point Provided?

The activity does not provide transportation to the meeting point. Participants are responsible for making their own way to the starting location.
Additional details about transportation and meeting point are not specified in the overview.

Can Participants Take the Recipes Home After the Class?

Yes, participants can take the recipes home after the class. The cooking class includes recipe cards for the three traditional Peruvian dishes prepared during the experience, allowing attendees to recreate the meals in their own kitchens.

Recap

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Peru with this unforgettable 4-hour culinary adventure. Discover the market’s exotic ingredients, craft refreshing cocktails, and prepare authentic Peruvian dishes under the guidance of Chef Jesus. Indulge in the delightful Picarones dessert as you engage with the rich cultural narrative. This experience caters to various dietary needs, offering a delicious and insightful glimpse into the essence of Cusco’s Peruvian cuisine.

You can check if your dates are available here: