NGO Lifted Strong – Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class

The Lifted Strong Community Organization in Arusha, Tanzania offers a unique opportunity for culture and culinary exploration. Hosted by a group of resilient local women, their traditional Tanzanian cooking class invites participants to learn the art of preparing authentic dishes like samosas, vegetable and coconut soup, and the staple ugali. Beyond the tantalizing flavors, the class also imparts valuable insights into the Swahili language and the organization’s mission to empower women facing hardships. By taking part in this enriching experience, visitors can not only savor the delectable cuisine but also support LISCO’s initiatives, creating a lasting impact on the lives of these remarkable women.

Key Points

• The Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class is operated by the non-profit organization Lifted Strong Community Organization (LISCO) in Arusha, Tanzania.
• The class provides an opportunity for travelers to learn how to prepare authentic Tanzanian dishes such as samosas, vegetable and coconut soup, and ugali.
• Participants learn Swahili names for ingredients and dishes, deepening their culture and appreciation.
• The class income supports LISCO’s initiatives, including vocational training and microfinance programs, aimed at empowering women facing hardships.
• The class is taught by a group of resilient women from the LISCO community, contributing to their economic and social empowerment.

Overview of the Cooking Class

The Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class is a 3-hour workshop taught by a group of resilient women in Arusha, Tanzania, offering participants the opportunity to learn how to prepare authentic Tanzanian dishes.

This immersive experience contributes to supporting the Lifted Strong Community Organization (LISCO), an organization dedicated to empowering women facing hardships.

During the class, participants won’t only learn to cook traditional Tanzanian fare, but they’ll also pick up some Swahili names along the way.

The menu includes beloved dishes like samosas, vegetable and coconut soup, and ugali.

Lunch is provided, and participants are welcome to bring their own drinks.

The class meets at MJHR+GF in Arusha, with the activity ending back at the same location.

Dishes on the Menu

The menu for the Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class features a delectable array of beloved local dishes.

Participants will learn to prepare samosas, a savory pastry filled with spiced vegetables; a nourishing vegetable and coconut soup; and the staple starch, ugali, made from maize flour.

Samosas are a popular snack in Tanzania, with their crispy exteriors and flavorful vegetable fillings.

The vegetable and coconut soup combines fresh produce with the rich, creamy texture of coconut milk, creating a comforting and nutritious dish.

Finally, ugali is a cornerstone of Tanzanian cuisine, serving as a versatile accompaniment to a variety of stews and curries.

Swahili Language Learning

During the Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class, participants pick up on some of the Swahili names for the dishes they’re preparing. Swahili is the national language of Tanzania, and learning a few key terms can help deepen one’s culture and appreciation for the local cuisine.

For instance, learners might pick up the Swahili words for ‘ugali,’ a stiff maize porridge, or ‘samosa,’ a savory pastry. The instructor also shares the Swahili names of common vegetables and spices used in Tanzanian cooking.

Though the class focuses on hands-on cooking, these small linguistic tidbits provide valuable insight into the local culture and language. Participants leave with a better understanding of Tanzanian culinary traditions and the ability to pronounce a few Swahili dishes.

Lifted Strong Community Organization

Lifted Strong Community Organization (LISCO) is a non-profit dedicated to empowering women facing hardships in Arusha, Tanzania.

This organization operates the Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class, which contributes to supporting its initiatives to uplift vulnerable communities.

The cooking class is taught by a group of resilient women, providing participants an opportunity to learn authentic Tanzanian dishes while also supporting LISCO’s mission.

The income generated from the class helps fund LISCO’s programs, which include vocational training, microfinance, and community development projects.

Meeting and End Point

Participants will meet at MJHR+GF in Arusha, Tanzania to begin the Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class. Once the class concludes, they’ll return to the same meeting point. This convenient location makes it easy for travelers to access the class and return to their accommodations afterward.

The class experience includes:

1. An energetic greeting from the resilient women of the Lifted Strong Community Organization.
2. A guided tour of the cooking station and introduction to the traditional ingredients and tools.
3. Hands-on instruction in preparing authentic Tanzanian dishes.
4. A shared meal where participants can savor the fruits of their culinary labors.

This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture and support the empowerment of women in the community.

Booking and Policies

NGO Lifted Strong – Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class

Booking and Policies
Travelers can easily book the Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class, with confirmation received at the time of booking. The class isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. It’s located near public transportation, with a maximum of 10 travelers per session.

The class is operated by the Lifted Strong Community Organization (LISCO), and travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The cooking class is a great way to support LISCO’s mission of empowering women facing hardships in Tanzania while learning about their traditional cuisine.

Inclusion and Accessibility

The Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class is accessible to a wide range of participants, with the activity accommodating both strollers and service animals. Despite not being wheelchair-friendly, the class’s proximity to public transportation options makes it convenient for travelers to attend.

The cooking experience includes:

1. A traditional Tanzanian lunch, provided as part of the class.
2. The opportunity to sample local dishes, such as samosas, vegetable and coconut soup, and ugali.
3. Learning the Swahili names for the ingredients and dishes.

Participants will have the opportunity to engage with a group of resilient women who aim to empower others facing hardships through the Lifted Strong Community Organization (LISCO).

Supporting Women’s Empowerment

NGO Lifted Strong – Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class

Supporting Women’s Empowerment

This cooking class serves as a platform for the Lifted Strong Community Organization (LISCO) to support women facing hardships in Arusha, Tanzania.

By participating in the class, travelers can directly contribute to empowering these resilient women and learning about their traditional culinary practices.

The class is taught by a group of women from the LISCO community, providing them with an opportunity to share their expertise and earn income to support their families.

Through this interactive experience, travelers gain a deeper understanding of Tanzanian culture while supporting the economic and social empowerment of local women.

It’s a meaningful way to make a positive impact during your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Specific Dietary Preference?

Yes, you can request a specific dietary preference. The cooking class accommodates various dietary needs, so you can inform the organizers ahead of time if you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, and they’ll make the necessary arrangements.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The cooking class does not have a minimum age requirement. Participants of all ages are welcome to attend, though parents or guardians should accompany any children to ensure their safety and enjoyment during the hands-on cooking activities.

Are the Cooking Utensils and Ingredients Provided?

The cooking utensils and ingredients are provided for participants in the Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class. All necessary tools and traditional Tanzanian ingredients are included, allowing participants to focus on learning how to prepare the authentic dishes.

Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Class?

Yes, participants are welcome to take photos and videos during the cooking class. The class encourages capturing the traditional cooking techniques and the vibrant cultural experience. However, participants should be mindful not to disrupt the class.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Cooking Class?

Yes, the Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class offers a private booking option. Travelers can request a private session for their group, allowing for a more personalized and tailored experience during the 3-hour cooking class.

Recap

The Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class offers a unique cultural experience that supports the empowerment of local Tanzanian women.

Participants learn to prepare authentic dishes, study the Swahili language, and contribute to the initiatives of the Lifted Strong Community Organization, which provides vocational training and microfinance to women facing hardships.

This class is an immersive and impactful way to engage with the local community and promote sustainable development.