Traditional Local Cooking Workshop (Pipián)

The Traditional Local Cooking Workshop, known as "Pipián," offers a unique opportunity for culinary enthusiasts to enjoy the rich gastronomic heritage of Popayán. Led by entrepreneurial rural women, this 4-hour experience invites participants to learn the art of preparing authentic regional dishes, including the renowned empanadas and tamales de pipián. With a hands-on approach and delectable tastings, the workshop promises to transport attendees on a delightful journey through the flavors and traditions that have been passed down for generations. But the true essence of this offering goes beyond the mere culinary experience, as it also serves to preserve cultural legacies and support local community initiatives.

Key Points

• A 4-hour hands-on workshop where participants prepare traditional Popayán dishes like empanadas and tamales de pipián, recognized by the local government.
• Led by entrepreneurial rural women from the Las Alicias initiative, supporting self-sustaining farming and cultural preservation in the region.
• Includes hotel pickup, all necessary ingredients, a traditional local drink, and an appetizer with tastings of the prepared dishes.
• Offered in English and Spanish with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexible and accessible options for diverse audiences.
• The pipián tamale recipe has been passed down for over five generations, showcasing the culinary heritage and unique ingredients of the community.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Workshop Overview

The Traditional Local Cooking Workshop, also known as "Pipián", provides participants with an opportunity to enjoy the rich culinary traditions of the region.

Priced at $134.00 per person, the 4-hour workshop is offered in both English and Spanish. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option, this experience makes it easy for visitors to book.

Pickup from the hotel lobby or reception is included, ensuring a convenient start to the cultural journey.

The workshop promises an authentic culinary experience, with a focus on preparing traditional empanadas and tamales de pipián, a recipe recognized as the Original and Unique Recipe of Tamal de Pipián by the Popayán government in 2021.

Culinary Experience

What makes the culinary experience at this workshop so compelling? Participants have the opportunity to prepare two iconic Popayán dishes – empanadas and tamales de pipián.

This recipe for tamales de pipián has been passed down for over five generations, making it a cherished part of the region’s cultural heritage.

The workshop highlights:

• The use of authentic, locally-sourced ingredients
• An immersive experience in traditional cooking methods
• The chance to learn about the historical significance of the dishes

Guided by a group of entrepreneurial rural women, this workshop provides an authentic glimpse into Popayán’s culinary traditions while supporting the local community.

Itinerary Details

Participants begin their culinary journey with a pickup in Popayán, where they’ll embark on a 20-minute transfer to the cooking class location.

Once there, they’ll enjoy a 3.33-hour hands-on experience, learning to prepare the authentic and historically significant empanadas and tamales de pipián.

After the cooking class, they’ll enjoy a 20-minute return transfer back to Popayán.

While the itinerary is subject to change, this carefully curated experience promises an authentic exploration of the region’s traditional cuisine and culinary heritage.

Instructors and Community

Along With the culinary experience, the Traditional Local Cooking Workshop is led by a group of entrepreneurial rural women who aim to promote traditional customs and food security within their community.

The instructors are part of an initiative called Las Alicias, which aspires to be a self-sustaining farm. This community-driven project connects visitors with rural life and local traditions.

The workshop directly supports the instructors’ goals by:

• Providing a platform to share their knowledge and culinary expertise
• Generating income to sustain their farm and community initiatives
• Fostering cultural preservation and food sovereignty in the region.

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Included in the Experience

The Traditional Local Cooking Workshop includes several delightful elements that immerse participants in the local culinary traditions.

Guests can savor an appetizer and tastings of the dishes they’ll be preparing. The workshop provides all the necessary ingredients to make the empanadas and tamales de pipián, a cherished regional recipe.

Complementing the hands-on cooking, you will enjoy a traditional local drink.

The experience also includes private transfers to and from the historical center of Popayán, ensuring a seamless journey.

Plus, insurance coverage is provided, and tips for any other meals or beverages not included in the workshop are covered.

Pricing and Availability

The Traditional Local Cooking Workshop in Popayán is priced from $134.00 per person, offering an affordable opportunity to take in the region’s culinary heritage.

The 4-hour experience includes:

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• Reserve now and pay later option to secure your spot
• Complimentary pickup from the hotel lobby or reception

With English and Spanish language support, the workshop provides an authentic hands-on experience in preparing the renowned tamales de pipián, a local specialty recognized as the Original and Unique Recipe of Tamal de Pipián by the Popayán government in 2021.

Cultural Significance

Beyond the enticing flavors and culinary delights, the Traditional Local Cooking Workshop in Popayán holds profound cultural significance.

The recipe for the tamales de pipián has been passed down for over five generations, a testament to the region’s rich gastronomic heritage. This UNESCO-recognized dish not only showcases the region’s unique ingredients but also embodies the traditions and customs of the local community.

Booking and Logistics

Booking the Traditional Local Cooking Workshop in Popayán is a straightforward process.

With flexible options, travelers can secure their spot with a simple online reservation and pay later. The workshop offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for hassle-free planning.

Complimentary pickup from the hotel lobby or reception further enhances the convenience, ensuring a seamless start to the culinary adventure.

The 4-hour experience is available in both English and Spanish, catering to a diverse audience.

The booking logistics make it easy for foodies to embark on this immersive culinary journey in the heart of Popayán.

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Reserve now, pay later
• Complimentary pickup from hotel

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Modify the Menu or Dietary Requirements?

Yes, guests can typically modify the menu or dietary requirements by coordinating with the instructors in advance. The workshop give you a customized culinary experience based on participants’ preferences and needs.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size?

The workshop has no minimum or maximum group size, allowing for flexible and intimate cooking experiences. Participants can expect a personalized interaction with the instructors and fellow attendees during the 4-hour culinary journey.

Are Children Allowed to Participate in the Workshop?

According to the workshop details, children are welcome to participate in the Pipián cooking class. The experience is designed to be family-friendly, allowing for an authentic culture for all ages.

What Happens in Case of Bad Weather?

In case of bad weather, the workshop organizers will move the cooking class indoors to a covered facility. They’ll ensure participants still have an authentic culinary experience while staying comfortable and dry.

Can I Purchase Additional Items or Take-Home Products?

Participants can purchase additional items or take-home products at the end of the cooking workshop. These may include locally-sourced ingredients, packaged food items, or merchandise promoting the community initiative. Costs for any extras are not included in the workshop price.

Recap

The Traditional Local Cooking Workshop, known as "Pipián," offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich culinary heritage of Popayán. Participants will learn to prepare authentic local dishes, empanadas and tamales de pipián, under the guidance of entrepreneurial rural women. This experience not only delights the senses but also supports cultural preservation and community initiatives, making it a truly rewarding and memorable encounter.

You can check if your dates are available here: