Market and Mayan Cooking Class

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Guatemala with the Market and Mayan Cooking Class. Led by a local chef, this hands-on experience takes you on a culinary tour of the Central Market to handpick fresh ingredients. You’ll then learn to prepare traditional Mayan dishes like pepian, hilachas, and jocon, enhancing your cooking skills while gaining a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of this cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious foodie, this class promises to transport you to the heart of Guatemalan culture through the universal language of food.

About Your Stay

• Experience authentic Mayan culinary traditions by learning to prepare classic dishes like pepian, hilachas, and jocon.
• Enjoy a hands-on cooking class led by a knowledgeable local chef, including a guided tour of the vibrant Central Market.
• Discover the origins of regional ingredients and transform them into a traditional Mayan feast.
• Includes round-trip transportation, all ingredients, recipes, and a typical Mayan lunch in a class setting of 4-12 participants.
• Flexible booking and cancellation policies, with vegetarian options available upon request for this immersive culinary experience.

Overview of the Experience

The Market and Mayan Cooking Class in Antigua, Guatemala offers participants a unique opportunity to enjoy the vibrant local culinary culture.

During this experience, guests will learn to prepare traditional Mayan dishes like pepian (meat stew), hilachas (beef with tomato sauce), and jocon (green chicken stew).

The class includes a culinary tour where you will shop for fresh ingredients at the Central Market, before returning to the kitchen to prepare and enjoy a typical Guatemalan lunch.

Led by a knowledgeable local chef, the class provides an authentic and hands-on exploration of Mayan cuisine and its time-honored traditions.

Traditional Mayan Dishes

Pepian, hilachas, and jocon are just a few of the traditional Mayan dishes you will learn to prepare during the Market and Mayan Cooking Class.

Pepian is a hearty meat stew, while hilachas features beef in a tangy tomato sauce. Jocon, a green chicken stew, showcases the vibrant flavors of the region.

Under the guidance of a local chef, attendees will explore the Central Market, selecting fresh ingredients to craft these authentic Mayan specialties.

Through hands-on preparation and expert instruction, you will gain an appreciation for the rich culinary heritage of Guatemala, culminating in a delectable lunch of the dishes they’ve mastered.

Culinary Tour of Central Market

Participants kick off the experience by venturing into Antigua’s bustling Central Market, where they’ll browse the vibrant stalls brimming with locally-sourced ingredients.

Under the guidance of their expert chef, they’ll handpick the freshest produce, herbs, and spices needed to prepare the traditional Mayan dishes.

This interactive shopping excursion allows travelers to enjoy the local culinary culture, as they learn about the origins and uses of the diverse ingredients.

With their market haul in tow, the group returns to the cooking studio, eager to transform their purchases into a delectable Mayan feast.

Cooking Class Itinerary

Upon returning to the cooking studio, the group eagerly awaits their chef’s guidance.

The chef begins by introducing the traditional Mayan dishes they’ll prepare:

• Pepian: a hearty meat stew
• Hilachas: beef in a tomato sauce
• Jocon: a green chicken stew

The participants divide into smaller groups, each tackling a different dish. They chop, sauté, and simmer, following the chef’s instructions closely.

The aroma of the simmering stews fills the air as they work. Finally, they plate their dishes and sit down to enjoy the fruits of their labor – a typical Mayan lunch prepared with care.

What’s Included in the Class

The market and Mayan cooking class includes round-trip transportation from any hotel in La Antigua.

All ingredients for cooking are provided, and a local chef serves as the instructor. Participants will receive a recipe and dessert, along with a natural drink and complimentary Wi-Fi. Gratuities are also included.

The class starts at 9:00 AM and ends back at the meeting point. A vegetarian option is available upon request.

The class requires a minimum of 4 people and a maximum of 12 travelers, with a minimum age of 17 years.

Pricing starts at $80 and is subject to group size, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The market and Mayan cooking class in Antigua, Guatemala, starts with pickup from selected hotels or a specified meeting point in the city.

The activity ends back at the meeting point, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The start time is 9:00 AM, allowing participants to enjoy the full duration of the class.

Some key details:

• Round trip transportation from any hotel in La Antigua is included.
• Pickup and drop-off are conveniently arranged.
• The class isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a formal dress code is required.
• Minimum group size is 4 people, with a maximum of 12 travelers.
• Minimum age for participation is 17 years.

Additional Information

Participants will receive confirmation of their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability.

This cooking class isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a formal dress code is required.

Vegetarian options are available upon request.

The minimum group size is 4 people, and the maximum is 12 travelers.

Participants must be at least 17 years old to join.

The class provides a natural drink and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The price for the Market and Mayan Cooking Class starts at $80.00 per person, with variation based on the group size.

This cooking experience offers flexibility, as travelers can reserve now and pay later. Plus, the activity boasts a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start time.

Key features of the pricing and cancellation policy include:

• Competitive pricing starting at $80 per person
• Flexible payment options with reserve now, pay later
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours prior
• Prices may vary based on group size (minimum 4, maximum 12)
• Reservations subject to availability at the time of booking

Questions About Your Stay

Is It Possible to Bring Home the Prepared Dishes?

While the activity involves preparing traditional Mayan dishes, the prepared food is typically consumed during the class. The class doesn’t provide an option to transport the cooked meals home.

Will the Class Accommodate Dietary Restrictions Beyond Vegetarian?

The cooking class can accommodate dietary restrictions beyond just vegetarian. According to the details, they’re willing to provide alternative options upon request to cater to participants’ dietary needs and preferences.

Can the Start Time Be Adjusted to Meet My Schedule?

The tour start time can be adjusted to accommodate the customer’s schedule. Visitors should contact the tour operator in advance to request an alternative start time, subject to availability and any additional fees.

What Should I Bring to the Cooking Class?

The cooking class provides all the necessary ingredients. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. It’s recommended to bring a camera to capture the experience and any recipes you’d like to recreate later.

Is There an Option for a Private or Semi-Private Class?

The cooking class offers a private or semi-private option for those who’d prefer a more personalized experience. Group sizes range from 4 to 12 travelers, allowing for a more intimate cooking session if desired.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Market and Mayan Cooking Class offers a unique culinary adventure into the rich heritage of Guatemalan cuisine. Participants can look forward to an immersive experience, from handpicking fresh ingredients at the Central Market to preparing traditional Mayan dishes under the guidance of a local chef. This hands-on class not only enhances cooking skills but also deepens one’s appreciation for the vibrant flavors and cultural traditions of Mayan cuisine.