Cooking Class With a Chef and Local Market Including Hotel Pickup

Enjoy the vibrant culinary culture of Quito, Ecuador. Join an expert chef on a guided tour of the bustling Mercado Central, selecting fresh ingredients and learning about traditional Ecuadorian cooking methods. Then, roll up your sleeves and get hands-on as you prepare an authentic 3-course meal, including classics like Shrimp Ceviche and Llapingachos. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, this comprehensive cooking class promises not only a delicious experience but also the skills to recreate these beloved dishes back home. What’s more, the opportunity to explore the local market and uncover the secrets of Ecuadorian cuisine is not to be missed.

This experience made our list of the 12 Best Workshops And Classes In Quito.

Good To Know

• Hands-on Ecuadorian cooking class led by a local chef in Quito, Ecuador, featuring a 3-course menu of authentic dishes.
• Guided visit to the vibrant Mercado Central, where participants explore local ingredients and learn about Ecuadorian culinary traditions.
• Chef-led selection of fresh ingredients from the market stalls, accompanied by insights into their origins and traditional uses.
• Preparation of the 3-course meal under the expert guidance of the chef, allowing participants to gain practical cooking skills.
• Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off service, ensuring a convenient and seamless culinary experience.

Overview of the Cooking Class

The cooking class takes place in Quito, Ecuador, where participants can learn to prepare authentic Ecuadorian dishes.

This hands-on culinary experience includes a 3-course meal. The class is structured as a guided, interactive session with a chef, and the group size is a minimum of 2 people per booking.

Guests will enjoy the local food culture and come away with the knowledge to recreate the dishes they’ve learned at home.

Exploring the Mercado Central

As part of the cooking class, participants embark on a guided visit to the Mercado Central, a vibrant local market in Quito.

The chef leads the group, showcasing the diverse array of fresh produce, spices, and traditional ingredients. Guests learn about the culinary traditions and significance of the various products as they peruse the stalls.

The market visit also provides an opportunity to sample unique Ecuadorian fruits and make personal purchases to take home.

This immersive experience allows participants to gain a deeper understanding of the local food culture before the hands-on cooking session.

Guided Shopping With the Chef

Upon arriving at the Mercado Central, the chef guides participants through the vibrant stalls, expertly selecting the freshest local ingredients for the upcoming cooking class.

They explore the abundant produce, meats, and seafood, as the chef explains the origins and traditional uses of each item. Participants have the opportunity to ask questions and learn about Ecuadorian culinary traditions.

The chef’s deep knowledge and passion for the local cuisine make this a truly immersive experience.

After the market visit, the group heads back to the cooking school, excited to begin preparing an authentic Ecuadorian meal using the newly purchased ingredients.

Discovering Ecuadorian Culinary Traditions

After exploring the vibrant Mercado Central, the group eagerly heads back to the cooking school, ready to discover the rich culinary traditions of Ecuador.

Under the guidance of the expert chef, they dive into preparing a 3-course Ecuadorian feast. The chef shares insights into the history and cultural significance of the ingredients and cooking techniques.

From the aromatic spices to the unique flavor combinations, the group learns about the diverse influences that have shaped Ecuadorian cuisine.

As they work together to bring the dishes to life, a newfound appreciation for the country’s gastronomy takes hold.

This hands-on experience offers an authentic taste of Ecuador’s culinary heritage.

Hands-on Culinary Experience

Arriving at the cooking school, the group eagerly sets to work under the watchful eye of the expert chef.

The chef guides the participants through the preparation of an authentic 3-course Ecuadorian meal, providing detailed instructions and hands-on assistance.

Chopping, sautéing, and plating come together as the class works in sync to bring the traditional recipes to life.

The aromas of simmering spices and sizzling ingredients fill the air, whetting the appetite.

As the meal takes shape, the students marvel at their progress, gaining newfound appreciation for the culinary traditions.

The hands-on experience culminates in a delightful feast, where the group savors the fruits of their labor.

Preparing a 3-Course Meal

The chef leads the class through the preparation of the 3-course Ecuadorian meal. The menu features a selection of traditional dishes, showcasing the diverse flavors of Ecuadorian cuisine. Participants will work hands-on with the chef, learning essential cooking techniques and gaining insight into the cultural significance of each dish.

Course	Dish
Appetizer	Ceviche de Camarones (Shrimp Ceviche)
Main Course	Llapingachos (Potato Patties with Peanut Sauce)
Dessert	Suspiro de Meringue (Meringue Kisses)

The interactive experience encourages participants to engage with the ingredients, asking questions and gaining a deeper understanding of Ecuadorian culinary traditions. By the end of the class, guests will have crafted a delectable 3-course meal and possess the knowledge to recreate these authentic Ecuadorian dishes at home.

Included Amenities and Logistics

As part of the Cooking Class with a Chef experience, the package includes all the necessary ingredients for the 3-course meal.

The class also includes a 1-hour guided market visit to the Mercado Central, where you’ll shop for ingredients with the chef and learn about local culinary traditions.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, making the logistics seamless.

While alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, gratuities aren’t included.

The experience starts at 10:00 am, and you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the class.

With a 5-star rating from previous guests, this cooking class promises an informative and enjoyable culinary adventure in Quito, Ecuador.

Glowing Reviews From Participants

Participants have raved about the quality of the Cooking Class with a Chef in Quito, Ecuador.

The experience has received a perfect 5.0-star rating on platforms like Viator and Tripadvisor.

Some of the key highlights from customer reviews include:

1. The informative market visit, where the chef guided participants through the Mercado Central, explaining the local products and culinary traditions.

2. The enjoyable hands-on cooking experience, where participants learned to prepare authentic Ecuadorian dishes.

3. The high quality of the 3-course meal that was prepared, drawing praise for its taste and authenticity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Menu?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or gluten-free menu. The cooking class offers flexible meal options to accommodate dietary preferences. Simply notify the staff when booking your experience.

Is There a Dress Code or Specific Attire Required?

There’s no strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and casual clothing that won’t restrict movement during the hands-on cooking. Avoid delicate fabrics that could get stained.

How Much Time Should I Budget for the Entire Experience?

The full experience lasts approximately 3-4 hours, including the 1-hour market visit and the hands-on 3-course cooking class. Participants should budget sufficient time to fully enjoy the immersive culinary journey.

Is It Possible to Take Home the Recipes Learned During the Class?

The cooking class participants can take home the recipes they learn during the experience. The chef provides them with printed copies of the recipes for the 3-course meal they prepare, so they can recreate the authentic Ecuadorian dishes at home.

Can the Class Accommodate Guests With Physical Disabilities or Mobility Issues?

The class can accommodate guests with physical disabilities or mobility issues. The chef and staff are happy to provide any necessary assistance to ensure all participants can fully engage in the cooking experience.

The Sum Up

This hands-on cooking class in Quito offers a unique opportunity to take in Ecuadorian culinary traditions. From shopping at the vibrant Mercado Central to preparing a delectable 3-course meal, it’s a chance to learn new skills and savor authentic flavors. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, it’s a convenient and enriching experience for foodies.