Momo, Dhalbhat & Thukpa Cooking Class, Nepal

Tucked away in the heart of Kathmandu, the "Momo, Dhalbhat & Thukpa Cooking Class" promises an immersive culinary journey through Nepal’s vibrant flavors. Led by Esther Rai, this hands-on experience takes participants on a guided tour of a local market before diving into the preparation of iconic Nepali dishes. With a cozy group size, the class offers a personalized touch, allowing aspiring chefs to explore the country’s rich culture and traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, this cooking class is sure to leave you craving for more.

Key Points

• Immersive Nepali cooking class in Kathmandu, offering hands-on experience in preparing traditional dishes like momo, dal bhat, and thukpa.
• Guided market visit to select fresh local ingredients, providing insights into Nepali cuisine and culture.
• Cooking session in an authentic Newari setting, a 5-minute walk from the UNESCO-listed Patan Durbar Square.
• Maximum group size of 10 ensuring a personalized learning experience with a knowledgeable host, Esther Rai.
• Highly rated class with a 5.0 overall score, praised for its delicious food, cultural insights, and enjoyable cooking process.

Overview of the Cooking Class

The Momo, Dhalbhat & Thukpa Cooking Class in Kathmandu, Nepal is hosted by Esther Rai, a passionate cook who started the class during the COVID-19 pandemic for financial support.

The class offers a menu of traditional Nepali dishes, including Dal Bhat, Momo, and Thukpa, with customization based on guest requests. Guests visit the local market, interact with vendors, and learn to prepare these authentic dishes in a unique location just a 5-minute walk from Patan Durbar Square.

The class includes lunch, coffee/tea, and water, and can accommodate up to 10 travelers. Reviews praise the enjoyable cooking experience, insights into Nepali culture, and delicious food.

Highlights of the Experience

Beginning with a participial phrase, the highlights of the Momo, Dhalbhat & Thukpa Cooking Class include a visit to the local market where guests can interact with vendors and select fresh ingredients for their dishes.

Located just a 5-minute walk from Patan Durbar Square, the class offers an authentic Nepali experience.

During the cooking process, participants learn to prepare traditional Nepali dishes like momo (dumplings), dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), and thukpa (noodle soup).

The class is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience.

Guests rave about the delicious food and the opportunity to learn about Nepali culture from their passionate host, Esther Rai.

What’s Included and Logistics

The cooking class includes lunch, as well as coffee/tea and water for participants.

The meeting point is at Nagabahal – Nyadha Galli, Lalitpur 44600, behind the Golden Temple in Lumbini Heritage Home’s rooftop. The class ends at the same location.

The maximum group size is 10 travelers, and the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation.

Participants receive confirmation at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Cooking Process and Dishes

During the cooking class, guests learn to prepare several traditional Nepali dishes.

They start by making momos, the beloved Tibetan-influenced dumplings. Under the guidance of the host, Esther, guests learn the art of folding and shaping the dumplings.

Next, they move on to dal bhat, the national dish of Nepal. Guests prepare the lentil-based soup and aromatic basmati rice.

Local Market Visit

Guests start their cooking class experience with a visit to the local market in Kathmandu. Here, they browse the vibrant stalls, picking out fresh ingredients for their Nepali dishes.

They interact with local vendors, learning about the origins and uses of the various spices, vegetables, and meats. The sights, sounds, and aromas of the market immerse guests in the local culture.

This hands-on experience allows them to fully engage with the cooking process, understanding the importance of quality ingredients. By the time they return to the cooking school, guests feel prepared and excited to transform their market finds into authentic Nepali specialties.

Authentic Nepali Setting

After the vibrant market visit, guests arrive at a cozy and intimate cooking school nestled just a 5-minute walk from the iconic Patan Durbar Square.

This unique setting offers an authentic Nepali experience, where the cooking class takes place in a traditional Newari building with a rooftop terrace.

The charming location transports guests to the heart of Nepal’s rich cultural heritage, providing an immersive backdrop for learning traditional Nepali cuisine.

With the Durbar Square’s ancient temples and structures visible in the distance, the cooking class becomes an integral part of the broader Nepali experience, allowing participants to truly connect with the local way of life.

Reviews and Ratings

The cooking class has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from guests, with an impressive overall rating of 5.0 out of 10 total reviews.

Of these, 8 are five-star ratings and 2 are four-star. Reviews consistently highlight the enjoyable cooking experience, the opportunity to learn about Nepali culture, and the delicious food.

Key themes in the reviews include:

• Authentic Nepali setting and ambiance
• Knowledgeable and passionate host
• Hands-on cooking of traditional dishes
• Satisfying and flavorful final meals

With a perfect 5-star rating, this cooking class is a top-rated experience for those seeking an immersive and memorable introduction to Nepali cuisine.

Pricing and Booking

For those interested in booking this immersive cooking experience, the class is priced from $25.00 per person.

This price includes a delicious lunch, as well as coffee, tea, and water. The booking process is straightforward – simply confirm your spot online.

The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the class. Upon booking, you’ll receive confirmation immediately.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a small group, this cooking class offers an authentic Nepali experience that’s sure to delight your taste buds and broaden your cultural understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Cooking Utensils?

While guests are welcome to bring their own cooking utensils, the class provides all necessary equipment and ingredients. Participants can focus on learning the cooking techniques without the need to bring their own tools.

What Is the Participant-To-Instructor Ratio?

The participant-to-instructor ratio is 10 travelers to 1 host. This allows for an intimate and hands-on cooking experience where the instructor can provide personalized attention to each participant.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Apron?

No, the apron is typically provided by the cooking class. Participants don’t need to bring their own aprons, as the instructor ensures all necessary equipment and supplies are available for the cooking experience.

Can I Take the Prepared Dishes Home?

No, participants typically cannot take the prepared dishes home from the cooking class. The cooking experience is focused on learning the recipes and techniques, with the prepared meals consumed during the class.

Is There a Vegetarian/Vegan Option Available?

Yes, the cooking class offers vegetarian and vegan options tailored to guests’ dietary needs. Participants can customize the menu to exclude meat and dairy, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.

Recap

This immersive cooking class in Kathmandu offers a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant flavors of Nepal. From visiting a local market to preparing iconic dishes like momos, dal bhat, and thukpa, participants can dive into the country’s rich culinary heritage. With a small group size and personalized guidance, the class provides an authentic and hands-on experience just minutes from Patan Durbar Square.