Genoa Cooking Class With Tasting

Discover the rich culinary heritage of Genoa and Liguria through an immersive cooking class. Led by a professional chef, this 3.5-hour experience invites you to craft iconic regional dishes, from the beloved pesto sauce to the classic Ligurian focaccia. As you knead dough and chop ingredients, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the gastronomic traditions that have shaped this captivating corner of Italy. But the real treat comes when you sit down to savor the fruits of your labor in an intimate setting, savoring each bite and perhaps even surprising your palate with an unexpected delight.

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Key Points

A 3.5-hour immersive experience to discover the culinary traditions of Genoa and Liguria through hands-on cooking and tasting.
Focus on preparing iconic Genoese dishes, including pesto sauce, traditional focaccia bread, and Canestrelli biscuits.
Opportunity to learn from a professional chef and engage in the preparation of these signature dishes.
Savor the vibrant pesto sauce over fresh handmade pasta, warm focaccia, and delicate Canestrelli cookies.
Small-group activity limited to 10 participants, providing personalized attention and an intimate setting to learn about the region’s gastronomic heritage.

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Overview of the Cooking Class

The Genoa Cooking Class with Tasting offers participants a 3.5-hour immersive experience to discover the culinary traditions of Genoa and the Liguria region through hands-on cooking and tasting.

This small-group activity, limited to 10 people, provides an intimate setting to learn from a professional chef. During the class, you will master the art of preparing classic Genoese dishes, including pesto sauce, focaccia with cheese, and Canestrelli biscuits.

After the cooking, attendees will have the opportunity to savor the flavors of the dishes they’ve created. The class takes place at the meeting point of the Christopher Columbus House on Via di Porta Soprana, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Culinary Tradition of Genoa and Liguria

Genoa and the broader Liguria region are renowned for their rich culinary traditions, which you will have the opportunity to explore and learn during this hands-on cooking class.

The class focuses on preparing several iconic dishes from the area, including the famous pesto sauce, a staple in Genoese cuisine. Participants will also learn to make traditional focaccia bread, as well as Canestrelli, a delicate biscuit that’s a local favorite.

Hands-on Cooking Experience

During the cooking class, you will have the opportunity to actively engage in the preparation of Genoa’s signature dishes under the guidance of a professional chef. They’ll learn the techniques and ingredients required to craft the renowned pesto sauce, as well as how to expertly shape and bake the region’s beloved focaccia bread and delicate Canestrelli cookies.

The hands-on experience will allow participants to:

Immerse themselves in the rich culinary traditions of Liguria.
Develop a deeper appreciation for the flavors and techniques that define Genoese cuisine.
Delight their senses as they savor the fruits of their labor.

This intimate, small-group setting ensures personalized attention and ample opportunity for questions, making it an authentic and memorable culinary adventure.

Preparing Traditional Recipes

Participants will first learn to prepare Genoa’s renowned pesto sauce, meticulously blending the essential ingredients – basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil – to craft the vibrant green condiment.

Next, they’ll master the art of making focaccia, the iconic Ligurian flatbread. Kneading the dough, dimpling the surface, and topping it with cheese or herbs, you will discover the secrets to achieving the perfect chewy texture and savory flavor.

Pesto, Focaccia, and Canestrelli

The class begins with the creation of Genoa’s renowned pesto sauce, a vibrant green condiment made by meticulously blending basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil.

Next, the group learns to prepare the iconic Genoese focaccia with its addictive cheesy topping.

As the dough rises, the participants turn their attention to baking delicate Canestrelli cookies – light, buttery bites that practically melt in the mouth.

The session is filled with camaraderie and shared discoveries:

The importance of hand-chopping the basil leaves to preserve their flavor.
Kneading the focaccia dough to achieve the perfect texture.
Crafting the Canestrelli’s intricate shapes by hand.

With each new recipe, the class gains a deeper appreciation for Genoa’s culinary heritage.

Tasting the Prepared Dishes

Once the cooking is complete, participants eagerly gather around the table to savor the fruits of their labor.

They start with the vibrant pesto sauce, spooning it over fresh handmade pasta and marveling at the depth of flavor.

Next, they tear into the warm, golden-brown focaccia, its crispy exterior giving way to a soft, cheesy interior.

Finally, the class delights in the delicate, buttery Canestrelli cookies, their intricate shapes a testament to the group’s newfound baking skills.

Each dish showcases the rich culinary traditions of Genoa and Liguria, leaving the participants with a deeper appreciation for the region’s gastronomic heritage.

The tasting provides a satisfying conclusion to the hands-on cooking experience, leaving everyone with full stomachs and a newfound love for Genoese cuisine.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The cooking class meets in front of the Christopher Columbus House on Via di Porta Soprana, providing a convenient and historical starting point for the experience. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes, as the class involves hands-on cooking activities.

To ensure a pleasant and focused environment, pets and large bags aren’t permitted.

The class has a cancellation policy that allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This policy provides flexibility for participants, allowing them to adjust their plans if necessary.

Cancellation Policy and Important Information

Participants can cancel their Genoa Cooking Class with Tasting reservation free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

Large bags and pets aren’t permitted during the class to ensure a comfortable experience for all attendees.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the hands-on cooking activities require moving around the kitchen.

The cancellation policy provides flexibility, allowing participants to adjust their plans if needed.

The class is designed to be a relaxed, focused experience, so the organizers request that guests leave large items and furry friends at home.

Wearing appropriate footwear will make it easier to participate in the cooking demonstrations and prepare the traditional Genoese dishes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Class Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?

Yes, this class can accommodate vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions. The chef is willing to modify recipes to suit participants’ needs, ensuring everyone can fully enjoy the cooking experience and tasting.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Groups?

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. For groups, the same policy applies – participants can cancel their booking without penalty if done so at least one day prior to the class.

Can Participants Take Home the Dishes They Prepare?

Participants can usually take home the dishes they prepare during the cooking class. However, it’s best to check with the organizers beforehand as the policy may vary between different cooking class providers.

Is the Class Conducted in English or Italian?

The cooking class is conducted in English, making it accessible for non-Italian speakers. The professional chef leading the class provides instruction and guidance in English throughout the hands-on cooking session.

Do I Need to Bring Any Cooking Utensils or Aprons?

No, participants don’t need to bring any cooking utensils or aprons. These are provided by the class. The instructor will supply all the necessary equipment and ingredients for the hands-on cooking session.

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