Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) in Bilbao

Paella, the iconic Spanish rice dish, is the star of this immersive cooking class in the heart of Bilbao. Led by the energetic Chef Mikel, you will learn the secrets to crafting both fish and meat paellas, as well as other Basque delicacies like garlic prawns and torrijas. With hands-on instruction and the opportunity to savor local Basque sangria, this class promises an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a newcomer to Spanish cuisine, you’ll leave this class with newfound skills and a deeper appreciation for the rich flavors of the Basque region.

Good To Know

• Participants learn to cook two types of paella (fish and meat) along with traditional Basque dishes like garlic prawns and Padron peppers.
• Class is led by Chef Mikel, who shares his expertise on essential paella-making techniques, including creating the perfect broth and socarrat.
• Cooking class includes a full-course lunch with self-prepared paella dishes, accompanied by Basque sangria and other local beverages.
• Class takes place in a modern kitchen within walking distance of downtown Bilbao hotels, providing a convenient and immersive culinary experience.
• Highly-rated class with 100% recommendation rate, praised for its engaging atmosphere, quality of food, and opportunity to learn about Basque culinary traditions.

Class Overview

This Paella Cooking Class with Basque Sangria in Bilbao is a highly-rated experience, with 22 reviews and a 100% recommendation from travelers.

Operated by Gastronom??a Bilbao, it accommodates a maximum of 12 participants and is priced from $143.73.

The class covers cooking techniques for both fish and meat paellas, as well as providing a starter of garlic prawns and Padron peppers, and a traditional Basque dessert.

Participants will enjoy the meals they prepare, accompanied by Basque sangria and other local drinks.

The class takes place in a beautiful kitchen, located within walking distance of downtown Bilbao hotels, with a start time of 11:00 am.

Menu Details

The menu for this Paella Cooking Class includes a starter of garlic prawns and Padron peppers deep-fried with Idiazabal cheese.

For the main course, you will learn to prepare two types of paella – one featuring fish and the other with meat.

To end the meal on a sweet note, they’ll enjoy torrijas, a traditional Basque dessert made with light sponge bread cake.

Paired with the meal, participants can sip on Basque sangria and other local drinks.

This immersive culinary experience allows guests to not only cook but also savor the fruits of their labor.

Inclusions

Participants in this Paella Cooking Class can look forward to an immersive culinary experience.

The class includes a full lunch, where participants get to enjoy the paella dishes they’ve prepared themselves. Along with the delicious food, the experience also features local alcoholic beverages like sangria.

To keep the participants comfortable and engaged, aprons are provided.

Location and Meeting Details

The meeting point for this Paella Cooking Class is located at Salbe pl., 6, 48007 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain, which is within walking distance from downtown hotels.

The class starts at 11:00 am and returns to the same meeting point upon completion.

Participants can enjoy the following:

1. Convenient central location in Bilbao
2. Easy access from nearby hotels
3. Starts at 11:00 am for a full-day experience
4. Returns to the original meeting point at the end of the class

Participant Experiences

Beyond the convenient location and start time, travelers have praised the overall experience of this Paella Cooking Class.

Participants highlight the memorable experience of cooking and consuming their creations, which they found to be both educational and engaging. The class received positive feedback on the chef, Mikel, and the lively atmosphere.

Reviewers commented on the beauty of the kitchen and the quality of the food, particularly the techniques used for the broths and bomba rice.

With an overall rating of 5.0, this class offers an immersive culinary experience that allows travelers to learn the art of making authentic Basque paella.

Cooking Techniques Learned

The cooking class teaches travelers valuable techniques for preparing authentic Basque paella.

Participants learn how to:

1. Create a flavorful broth that’s essential for the rice’s texture and taste.

2. Use the bomba rice variety, which is the traditional choice for paella, and understand its unique cooking properties.

3. Develop a perfect socarrat, the caramelized, crispy bottom layer of the paella that’s highly prized.

4. Incorporate the right combination of seafood, meat, and vegetables to balance the flavors and textures of the dish.

Chef and Atmosphere

Stellar reviews praise the Paella Cooking Class’s energetic Chef Mikel, who captivates participants with his infectious enthusiasm and wealth of culinary knowledge.

Mikel’s engaging teaching style and willingness to share insights into traditional Basque cooking techniques create an immersive experience. Travelers highlight the class’s lively atmosphere, with Mikel leading the group through every step of the paella-making process.

Beyond the hands-on cooking, Mikel fosters a convivial environment, encouraging camaraderie and conversation over Basque sangria.

The modern kitchen’s open layout adds to the interactive nature of the class, allowing participants to observe Mikel’s expert techniques up close.

Quality and Beauty

Accentuating the quality and beauty of the Paella Cooking Class, participants consistently praise the exceptional ingredients and meticulous preparation techniques.

The class stands out for:

1. The freshness and authenticity of the local produce, including the Padron peppers and Idiazabal cheese.
2. The masterful execution of the two types of paella, showcasing the chef’s expertise in blending flavors and textures.
3. The delightful presentation of the traditional Basque dessert, Torrijas, which dazzles the senses.
4. The inviting ambiance of the kitchen, which creates an immersive and visually stunning setting for the culinary experience.

The attention to detail and commitment to quality shine through, leaving participants with a deep appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship behind Bilbao’s renowned culinary scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Specific Type of Paella?

Yes, you can request a specific type of paella. The cooking class offers two types – fish and meat – so you can discuss your preference with the chef when booking the experience.

Is There a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Option Available?

Yes, the class offers vegetarian and gluten-free options. Participants can request these alternatives when booking, and the chef will accommodate their dietary needs to ensure they enjoy a delicious and inclusive cooking experience.

Can I Take the Leftovers From the Class With Me?

The cooking class participants can likely take any leftover paella or dessert home with them, as the experience is designed for them to enjoy the meals they prepare. However, the availability and policies may vary, so it’s best to confirm with the cooking school.

Is There a Dress Code or Special Attire Required?

There is no formal dress code for the cooking class. Participants are advised to wear comfortable, casual clothing that they don’t mind getting a bit messy. Aprons are provided to keep clothes clean during the hands-on cooking activities.

Can I Book a Private or Customized Cooking Class?

Yes, the cooking class can likely be booked as a private or customized experience. Customers should contact the operator, Gastronomía Bilbao, to inquire about availability and options for tailoring the class to their preferences.

The Sum Up

The Paella Cooking Class in Bilbao offers an immersive culinary experience. Participants will learn to prepare delicious fish and meat paellas, garlic prawns, and traditional Basque dessert while enjoying local Basque sangria. Led by the energetic Chef Mikel, the hands-on class accommodates up to 12 people in a beautiful, modern kitchen. Attendees will leave with new skills and unforgettable memories from this delightful cooking adventure.