Experience the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Taiwan through an immersive cooking class in Taipei. Participants will master the art of crafting iconic Taiwanese desserts, from the flaky pastry of pineapple treats with salted egg yolk to the fluffy delight of longan cake. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, guests will learn traditional techniques while savoring the high mountain oolong tea that complements these exquisite flavors. This intimate class, limited to 10 participants, offers a unique opportunity to connect with Taiwan’s cultural roots and indulge in a truly memorable gastronomic adventure.
Good To Know
- Participants learn to make three iconic Taiwanese desserts: pineapple pastry, longan cake, and high mountain oolong tea.
- The pineapple pastry features homemade pineapple bean paste and salted egg yolk filling, a popular souvenir.
- Longan cake is made from fresh longan fruit, known for improving blood circulation and warming the body.
- High mountain oolong tea is sourced from alpine regions over 1000 meters, rich in catechins and with a complex, full-bodied flavor.
- The cooking class is limited to 10 participants, offering personalized instruction and a hands-on, immersive experience.
Course Overview
In this traditional Taiwanese dessert experience, you will have the opportunity to learn how to make three iconic sweets: pineapple pastry with salted egg yolk, longan cake, and high mountain oolong tea.
The pineapple pastry, Taiwan’s most popular souvenir, features a homemade pineapple bean paste and salted egg yolk filling.
The longan cake, a nourishing dessert made from the longan fruit, is known for improving blood circulation and warming the body.
Lastly, the high mountain oolong tea, selected from alpine regions over 1000 meters, is rich in catechins due to the unique growing conditions of clouds, fog, and limited sunshine.
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Engaging Cooking Class
Though the class is capped at 10 travelers, the intimate group size ensures individualized attention from the experienced cooking instructors.
Participants are guided through each step of the pineapple cake and longan cake preparation, with opportunities to ask questions and share their own experiences.
The hands-on nature of the class allows everyone to fully enjoy the process, from mixing the fillings to carefully assembling the desserts.
Four highlights of the engaging cooking class include:
- Personalized instruction from knowledgeable chefs
- Opportunities to learn traditional Taiwanese techniques
- Hands-on participation in every stage of the cooking
- Engaging the senses through sight, smell, and taste
Pineapple Pastry Highlights
Crafting the perfect pineapple pastry is a labor of love, as participants quickly discover in this immersive experience. From the delicate pineapple bean paste to the rich salted egg yolk filling, every step requires careful attention and skill. The group works together, guided by experienced instructors, to assemble these iconic Taiwanese treats.
Pineapple Pastry Highlights | ||
---|---|---|
Pineapple Bean Paste | Salted Egg Yolk Filling | Pastry Dough |
Made from fresh pineapples, simmered to achieve the perfect balance of sweet and tart | Carefully prepared salted egg yolks, adding a creamy, savory element | Flaky, buttery pastry encasing the flavorful fillings |
Kneaded and shaped by hand for an authentic texture | Piped into the center of each pastry with precision | Baked to golden perfection, creating a mouthwatering aroma |
The final product, beautifully packaged, is a testament to the participants’ hard work and the rich culinary heritage of Taiwan.
Longan Cake Preparation
Participants now turn their attention to the longan cake, a quintessential Taiwanese dessert renowned for its nourishing properties. This sweet treat is made from the longan fruit, known for its ability to improve blood circulation and warm the body.
The cooking class guides participants through the step-by-step process:
- Prepare a sweet longan puree by simmering the fresh fruit.
- Fold the puree into a light, fluffy batter.
- Carefully pour the batter into individual molds.
- Bake the cakes until they achieve a golden, irresistible appearance.
The finished longan cakes embody the rich flavors and healthful benefits of this classic Taiwanese delicacy.
High Mountain Oolong Tea
The high mountain oolong tea served during the class is expertly selected from alpine regions over 1,000 meters in elevation.
These teas are rich in catechins due to the unique growing conditions found at high altitudes – clouds, fog, and limited sunshine. This results in a complex, full-bodied flavor profile with notes of florality and a smooth, lingering finish.
The tea ceremony allows participants to fully appreciate the nuances of this premium Taiwanese oolong through a traditional preparation and tasting ritual.
It’s a cherished opportunity to savor the terroir and craftsmanship that define Taiwan’s renowned high mountain tea culture.
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Cooking Facility Details
The cooking facility at Cooking Fun Taiwan is a well-equipped, modern kitchen designed to accommodate groups of up to 10 participants.
The spacious and airy kitchen features:
- Ample counter space for each participant to comfortably prepare ingredients and assemble their desserts.
- High-quality cooking equipment, including commercial-grade ovens, stovetops, and mixers, ensuring efficiency and consistency during the hands-on cooking session.
- A dedicated work area for the instructor to demonstrate techniques and guide participants through the recipes.
- Wheelchair accessibility, stroller access, and infant seats, making the experience inclusive for all travelers.
The clean and well-maintained facility provides a conducive environment for participants to enjoy the traditional Taiwanese dessert-making process.
Pricing and Booking
The Taiwan Traditional Dessert Experience offers a cost of $70.00 per person for the 2.5-hour cooking class.
Booking options include reserving now and paying later, providing flexibility. The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
This experience can accommodate a maximum group size of 10 travelers, making it an intimate and personalized class.
The cooking school is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infant seats available, ensuring inclusivity.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the class is located near public transportation, with service animals allowed.
Customer Testimonials
According to the information provided, the Taiwan Traditional Dessert Experience has received an impressive overall rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 2 customer reviews.
Participants highlighted several positive aspects of the class:
- The high-quality cooking instruction and kitchen facilities
- The beautiful packaging of the handmade desserts
- The engaging tea ceremony showcasing the rich flavors of Taiwan’s high mountain oolong
- The ability to involve the whole family in the cooking process
Reviewers expressed gratitude for the teamwork and hospitality demonstrated by the hosts, making the experience both educational and enjoyable for all involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Prior Cooking Experience Required to Participate in the Class?
The course overview does not indicate any prior cooking experience is required. Participants of all skill levels can enjoy making traditional Taiwanese desserts and learning about high mountain oolong tea under the guidance of the experienced instructors.
What Is the Dress Code for the Cooking Class?
The cooking class has a casual dress code. Participants should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and closed-toe shoes. There’s no need for formal attire, as the focus is on hands-on cooking in a relaxed, friendly environment.
Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated During the Class?
The cooking class can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Participants should inform the host about any allergies or dietary needs when booking, and the staff will make appropriate menu adjustments to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Is Photography Allowed During the Class?
Photography is allowed during the class. Participants are encouraged to capture the cooking process and the beautiful presentation of the traditional Taiwanese desserts they create to share their experience with friends and family.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Attend the Class?
There is no minimum age requirement to attend the class. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the traditional Taiwanese dessert cooking experience and learn to make these delectable treats.
Sum Up
This immersive Taiwanese dessert class offers a unique chance to master iconic treats like pineapple pastry and longan cake. Under expert guidance, you will craft these traditional delicacies and savor high mountain oolong tea, all while learning about the region’s rich culinary heritage. With a small class size, this intimate experience promises an unforgettable introduction to Taiwan’s exquisite flavors.
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