NGO Lifted Strong – Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class

The NGO Lifted Strong offers a unique opportunity for travelers to enjoy the rich culinary traditions of Tanzania. This hands-on cooking class in Arusha promises not just a delectable gastronomic experience, but also a chance to connect with the local community and support a meaningful cause. From savory samosas to the staple ugali, you will embark on a flavorful journey, all while honing their Swahili language skills. But the class is more than just about food – it’s about empowering local women, fostering cultural exchange, and leaving a positive impact on the region. What lies in store for those who sign up for this immersive experience?

Good To Know

• This traditional Tanzanian cooking class is a 3-hour session focused on empowering local women through culinary education and cultural engagement.
• The class menu includes hands-on preparation of savory samosas, vegetable and coconut soup, and the staple dish ugali, with insights into Swahili language and cooking methods.
• The class is organized by the NGO Lifted Strong, which aims to support women facing hardships, with a portion of the fees going towards their community organization.
• Participants can expect a welcoming environment, an engaging learning experience, and the opportunity to gain practical cooking skills and cultural understanding.
• The class is conveniently located in Arusha, Tanzania, with options for pickup and transportation, and features a flexible booking and cancellation policy.

Overview and Rating

Lifting the lid on the NGO Lifted Strong Cooking Class, participants are met with a highly rated experience, earning an impressive 4.9-star review from 35 travelers.

This small-group class, located in Arusha, Tanzania, offers a unique opportunity to dive into the world of traditional Tanzanian dishes and Swahili language.

The approximately 3-hour session is designed to provide an engaging, hands-on learning experience, with participants gaining insight into the local community through the organization’s mission to empower women facing hardships.

Beyond the culinary adventure, the class also supports a meaningful cause, making it a truly impactful experience for those seeking to connect with the local culture.

Cooking Class Experience

The cooking class experience immerses participants in the heart of traditional Tanzanian cuisine. Aspiring chefs will learn to prepare a mouthwatering menu, including savory samosas, a fragrant vegetable and coconut soup, and the staple dish of ugali. Throughout the hands-on lesson, instructors provide insights into local culinary techniques and Swahili language. To enhance the educational experience, the class features a 3-column, 4-row table highlighting key details:

Menu Highlights	Inclusions	Meeting and Pickup
Samosas	Lunch provided	Meeting point near CRDB BANK
Vegetable and Coconut Soup	Participants bring own drinks	Arranged pickup or taxi drop-off
Ugali		Near public transport

Participants emerge with newfound cooking skills and a deeper connection to Tanzanian culture.

Highlighted Menu Items

Savory samosas, a signature dish, feature a crisp exterior and a delectable interior of spiced potatoes, onions, peas, meat, or lentils.

Participants will learn traditional techniques for preparing the flavorful vegetable and coconut soup, which highlights the unique cooking methods of Tanzania.

Another highlight is the classic ugali, a staple starch made from maize flour.

Throughout the class, the instructors provide insights into the cultural significance and preparation of these beloved Tanzanian dishes, enabling participants to gain a deeper understanding of the local culinary traditions.

Included in the Class

During the approximately 3-hour cooking class, participants enjoy the authentic flavors and techniques of traditional Tanzanian cuisine.

The class includes the preparation of menu highlights like savory samosas, a hearty vegetable and coconut soup, and the staple dish of ugali. Participants learn the traditional methods of coconut preparation and other local ingredients.

Lunch, consisting of the dishes prepared during the class, is provided, though participants should bring their own drinks.

The immersive experience allows attendees to engage with the local women involved in the Lifted Strong Community Organization, which aims to empower women facing hardships.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Participants meet at the MJHR+GF location near CRDB BANK in Arusha, Tanzania to begin the cooking class experience.

Arranged pickup options are available, or participants can take a taxi to the starting point.

After the class, the experience returns to the original meeting location.

The venue isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it welcomes strollers and service animals.

It’s also conveniently located near public transportation.

Participants should consider these details when planning their transportation to and from the cooking class.

Booking and Cancellation

The pricing for the traditional Tanzanian cooking class starts at $50.00, with a lowest price guarantee.

Booking the experience offers flexibility, as participants can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the class. On top of that, travelers have the option to reserve now and pay later, providing convenient payment arrangements.

The booking policies include:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
2. Lowest price guarantee.
3. Reserve now, pay later option.
4. Flexible scheduling to accommodate participants’ needs.

Participant Feedback

Participant experiences and reviews have been overwhelmingly positive for the traditional Tanzanian cooking class. Many praised the welcoming environment and engaging instructors, who expertly guided them through the preparation of delicious local dishes.

Participants highlighted the educational aspect, appreciating the opportunity to learn about the Lifted Strong Community Organization‘s mission to empower women facing hardships.

The hands-on learning experience, which allowed participants to interact with the local women involved in the NGO, was particularly impactful.

Supporting the Community

How does the traditional Tanzanian cooking class support the local community?

The cooking class is a collaborative effort between the NGO Lifted Strong and the local women of Arusha. By participating, visitors contribute to the organization’s mission of empowering women facing hardships.

The class highlights four key ways it supports the community:

1. Employs local women as cooking instructors and guides.
2. Showcases traditional Tanzanian dishes and culinary techniques.
3. Raises awareness about the challenges faced by the community.
4. Donates a portion of the class proceeds to the Lifted Strong Community Organization (LISCO).

This multifaceted approach allows visitors to not only learn about Tanzanian cuisine but also meaningfully engage with and support the local community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cooking Class Suitable for Vegetarians/Vegans?

The cooking class appears suitable for vegetarians and vegans, as it includes a vegetable and coconut soup, and the menu highlights savory fillings like spiced potatoes, onions, peas, and lentils as options for dishes like samosas.

Can I Request Dietary Accommodations?

Yes, dietary accommodations can be requested for the cooking class. The experience aims to be inclusive and caters to various dietary needs upon advance notice, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Do I Need to Bring Any Cooking Equipment?

You don’t need to bring any cooking equipment. All the necessary utensils and ingredients are provided during the cooking class. The focus is on hands-on learning with the guidance of the experienced instructors.

What Is the Class Size and Participant-To-Instructor Ratio?

The class size is small, with an intimate participant-to-instructor ratio. This allows for personalized attention and hands-on learning during the cooking experience.

Are There Any Age or Skill-Level Restrictions for the Class?

The cooking class has no age restrictions, and participants of all skill levels are welcome. The small-group format allows for personalized attention from the engaging instructors, ensuring an enjoyable and enriching experience for everyone.

The Sum Up

The Lifted Strong NGO’s traditional Tanzanian cooking class in Arusha offers a unique cultural experience. Participants not only learn to prepare authentic dishes but also develop valuable Swahili language skills. The class supports the local community, with a portion of the fees contributing to the Lifted Strong Community Organization’s mission. This hands-on culinary adventure is a great way to take in Tanzanian cuisine and culture.