Tokyo: Learn to Cook Bento, Oyakodon and More!

Discover the vibrant world of traditional Japanese cuisine in the heart of Tokyo. These engaging cooking classes invite you to explore the art of preparing beloved dishes like bento, oyakodon, and more. With hands-on guidance, you’ll craft mouthwatering meals and uncover the cultural nuances that make each recipe unique. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, this culinary adventure promises to satisfy your senses and leave you craving for…

Key Points

• Cooking classes in Tokyo focus on authentic Japanese cuisine, including dishes like Bento, Oyakodon, Gyudon, Katsu Curry, and Temari Sushi.
• Bento class teaches participants to prepare a classic Japanese bento box with dishes like onigiri, karaage, tamagoyaki, and kimpira.
• Oyakodon class highlights the comforting oyakodon dish, a rice bowl with chicken and egg in a savory dashi broth, and classic miso soup.
• Gyudon class teaches the preparation of gyudon, a rice bowl with beef and onions in a savory-sweet sauce, and includes miso soup.
• Katsu Curry and Temari Sushi classes cover crispy pork cutlet with savory curry sauce, and colorful, ball-shaped sushi, respectively, with miso soup.

Overview of Cooking Classes

The cooking classes offered in Tokyo provide a unique opportunity for travelers to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine.

Covering a range of popular dishes, the classes include Bento, Oyakodon, Gyudon, Katsu Curry, and Temari Sushi. Each class includes the finished dish and accompaniments, a recipe, and a Japanese souvenir.

The sessions take place in a centrally located cooking studio and cater to various dietary needs, with clear information on allergens.

While not wheelchair accessible, the classes welcome children under 100cm as observers.

Reservations are flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Bento Class: Onigiri, Karaage, Tamagoyaki, Kimpira

In the Bento Class, participants learn to prepare a classic Japanese bento box filled with an array of delectable dishes.

They master the art of making onigiri, a staple Japanese rice ball, along with the crispy and juicy karaage, Japanese-style fried chicken.

The class also covers the preparation of tamagoyaki, a sweet and savory rolled omelette, and the flavorful kimpira, a sautéed vegetable dish.

Participants receive a recipe booklet and a Japanese souvenir, while enjoying a welcome drink and Miso soup.

The class provides a hands-on experience, allowing guests to savor the flavors of traditional Japanese cuisine.

Oyakodon Class: Oyakodon, Miso Soup

Although the Oyakodon Class focuses on the preparation of the comforting oyakodon dish, participants also learn to make a classic Japanese miso soup. Oyakodon, meaning "parent-and-child rice bowl," is a dish featuring chicken and egg simmered in a savory dashi broth. Alongside this, students will craft a restorative miso soup, using traditional ingredients like dashi, miso paste, and scallions. This class not only teaches the techniques for these quintessential Japanese dishes but also provides a valuable cultural experience.

Included Dishes	Main Ingredients	Allergens
Oyakodon	Chicken, Egg, Soy	Chicken, Egg, Soy
Miso Soup	Dashi, Miso Paste, Scallions	N/A

Gyudon Class: Gyudon, Miso Soup

This class teaches students the art of crafting the beloved Japanese dish, gyudon.

Gyudon is a rice bowl topped with thinly sliced beef and onions simmered in a savory-sweet sauce. Students will learn the techniques to prepare this comforting, one-bowl meal.

The class also covers the preparation of a classic miso soup, which complements the rich flavors of the gyudon.

With detailed recipes and hands-on instruction, you will leave equipped to recreate this quintessential Japanese comfort food at home.

The class caters to those with beef allergies, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.

Katsu Curry Class: Katsu Curry, Pickles

The Katsu Curry Class teaches students the art of preparing the beloved Japanese dish, katsu curry.

Participants will learn to make the crispy pork cutlet and the rich, savory curry sauce. They’ll also create quick pickled vegetables to accompany the katsu curry.

The class covers allergens like pork, egg, wheat, and apple. At the end, students enjoy their freshly cooked katsu curry with the pickles.

They’ll receive the recipe and a Japanese souvenir too. The class is held at the Alleyway Gourmet Lab in Tokyo and lasts around 2 hours.

Temari Sushi Class: Temari Sushi, Miso Soup

In the Temari Sushi Class, you will learn the art of creating these delightful Japanese ball-shaped sushi. Temari sushi, known for its vibrant colors and intricate designs, is a visually stunning addition to any meal. During the class, students will craft their own temari sushi and enjoy a soothing miso soup alongside their creations.

Inclusions	Allergies
Temari Sushi	Shrimp
Miso Soup	Egg
	Soy
	Wheat

The class is an immersive experience, providing participants with the skills and knowledge to recreate temari sushi at home, adding a touch of Japanese culinary elegance to their meals.

Inclusions and Allergies

While the cooking classes at the Alleyway Gourmet Lab in Tokyo offer a variety of Japanese dishes, each class caters to different dietary requirements.

Inclusions across all classes include the finished dish, recipes, a Japanese souvenir, and use of an apron and towel.

However, the specific allergens differ – the Bento class avoids chicken, wheat, egg, sesame, and soy, while the Gyudon class is free of beef and soy.

Travelers must inform the instructors of any allergies prior to the class.

Meeting and Pickup, Additional Information

Travelers partake in the cooking classes at the Alleyway Gourmet Lab, located in Tokyo’s Bunkyo City.

The meeting point is the Alleyway Gourmet Lab, and the classes return to the same location.

The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.

It’s not recommended for travelers with back problems.

Classes accommodate a maximum of 6 travelers, and children under 100 cm can observe.

Confirmation is received at booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

The classes are priced from $110 per person, with flexible reservation options available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Cooking Classes Offered in English?

The cooking classes are offered in English, as the language is specified as one of the inclusions. The classes provide recipes, instructions, and assistance in English for travelers who do not speak Japanese.

Can I Bring My Own Ingredients to the Classes?

No, participants can’t bring their own ingredients to the cooking classes. The classes provide all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Bringing outside items is not allowed, as it could disrupt the structured lesson plan and cooking flow.

Do I Need to Have Prior Cooking Experience?

No, prior cooking experience is not required. The cooking classes are suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced cooks. Instructors provide step-by-step guidance throughout the classes.

Can I Take Home the Leftovers From the Class?

The cooking classes do not allow participants to take home leftovers. The finished dishes and accompanying items are included in the class, but they must be consumed during the session. Any remaining food is not permitted to be taken away.

Are There Vegetarian or Vegan Options Available?

The cooking classes do not currently offer vegetarian or vegan options. The menus focus on traditional Japanese dishes that typically include animal proteins. Attendees with dietary restrictions should contact the provider to inquire about potential accommodations.

Recap

Discover the art of traditional Japanese cooking in Tokyo with hands-on classes that let you create mouthwatering dishes like bento, oyakodon, and more. Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, learn valuable techniques, and take home a recipe booklet and Japanese souvenir – a memorable culinary adventure awaits.