Peruvian Cooking Class in Cusco

The Peruvian Cooking Class in Cusco offers an immersive culinary experience that delves into the vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine. Participants explore a local market, learn to craft the iconic pisco sour, and master the preparation of lomo saltado – a beloved beef dish. Under the guidance of a knowledgeable instructor, guests then savor a three-course meal that showcases the essence of Peruvian culinary traditions. With a take-home recipe book, this hands-on class provides an opportunity to recreate the experience long after the visit. Those seeking to expand their culinary horizons and connect with Cusco’s rich food culture won’t want to miss this delightful offering.

About Your Stay

• A hands-on, half-day cooking class focused on traditional Peruvian cuisine, including the preparation of a classic 3-course meal and the iconic pisco sour cocktail.
• Guided market visit to explore fresh ingredients and gain insight into Peruvian culinary culture.
• Step-by-step instruction on the preparation of the iconic Peruvian dish, lomo saltado.
• Opportunity to dine on the prepared Peruvian meal in a communal setting, accompanied by a pisco sour.
• Inclusive amenities such as transportation, kitchenware, and a recipe book for participants to take home.

Overview of the Cooking Experience

A half-day cooking class in Cusco offers participants the opportunity to enjoy Peruvian cuisine.

Guests will start by visiting the bustling San Pedro Market to shop for fresh ingredients.

Next, they’ll learn to prepare a classic Peruvian cocktail – the pisco sour.

The main event is a hands-on cooking experience, where students will prepare a traditional 3-course meal under the guidance of a bilingual instructor.

The menu includes the iconic lomo saltado, a beef dish served with rice and french fries.

At the end, you will enjoy the fruits of their labor, savoring the meal they’ve created along with a glass of wine.

Exploring San Pedro Market

After visiting the meeting point in Plaza Regocijo, participants head to the vibrant San Pedro Market.

This bustling marketplace is the perfect introduction to Peruvian cuisine. Under the guidance of the bilingual cook, travelers explore the stalls, interact with local vendors, and handpick the freshest ingredients for their cooking class.

From colorful produce to aromatic spices, the market offers a sensory experience that sets the stage for the hands-on culinary adventure.

This immersive market visit not only provides an authentic glimpse into Peruvian culture but also equips participants with a deeper understanding of the origins and quality of the ingredients they’ll use to prepare their traditional 3-course meal.

Preparing the Pisco Sour

Participants then turn their attention to learning how to make the iconic Peruvian cocktail, the pisco sour.

The instructor guides them through the steps, emphasizing the importance of using quality pisco, a clear, potent brandy distilled from grapes.

They measure and mix the pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg whites, creating a frothy, balanced cocktail.

As they shake the mixture vigorously, the participants learn the technique for achieving the signature foam.

Finally, they garnish the pisco sours with a few drops of Angostura bitters, completing the traditional presentation.

With newfound bartending skills, the group is ready to savor their freshly prepared libations.

Cooking the Lomo Saltado

The chef then guides the participants through the preparation of the classic Peruvian dish, lomo saltado.

This stir-fried beef dish features:

1. Thinly sliced beef tenderloin, seared to a flavorful brown.
2. A mix of onions, tomatoes, and french fries, stir-fried together.
3. A savory sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and spices, which brings all the ingredients together.

Participants carefully follow the chef’s instructions, learning the techniques and flavors that make lomo saltado a beloved Peruvian staple.

The aromas fill the kitchen as the dish comes together, building anticipation for the final result – a satisfying, authentic Peruvian meal they’ve created themselves.

Dining on the Prepared Meal

Once the lomo saltado has been prepared, participants eagerly gather around the table to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

The satisfying aroma of the well-seasoned beef, the steaming rice, and the crispy french fries fills the air, tantalizing the senses.

As they take the first bite, the flavors explode on their palates – the savory beef, the slightly sweet onions, and the tangy sauce, all coming together in a harmonious blend.

The pisco sour, with its frothy top and balanced acidity, provides a refreshing complement to the hearty meal.

The sense of accomplishment and pride radiates from the group as they savor the delicious Peruvian fare they’ve created.

Included Amenities and Logistics

The cooking class includes a bilingual cook to guide participants through the experience, as well as transportation to and from the meeting point.

During the class, you will have access to all necessary kitchenware and a dining room to enjoy their prepared meal.

The class includes:

1. A 3-course lunch and a glass of wine.
2. Visits and interactions at the San Pedro Market to shop for ingredients.
3. A recipe book to take home.

Plus, participants can purchase optional alcoholic drinks, and tips are accepted but not required.

Meeting and End Point Details

At the fountain location in Plaza Regocijo, you will meet for the start of the Peruvian cooking class.

The class begins daily from 8:00 AM to 8:30 AM. After the shopping experience at the San Pedro Market and the cooking session, the class will return to the same meeting point.

The cooking class can accommodate a maximum of 1 traveler. While the class isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, and infant seats are available.

The class includes bilingual instruction, transportation, kitchenware, a 3-course meal, a glass of wine, and a recipe book.

Highlights From Past Participants

Participants have consistently praised the Peruvian cooking class for its friendly and informative instructors, who guide them through an enjoyable market experience and the preparation of a delicious 3-course meal.

Past reviews highlight several key aspects:

1. The market visit allows participants to interact with local vendors and select fresh ingredients for their dishes.

2. The hands-on cooking session provides an immersive experience, where participants learn traditional techniques under the guidance of skilled chefs.

3. The final meal, which includes a pisco sour and a 3-course menu featuring iconic Peruvian dishes, is consistently described as flavorful and satisfying.

Questions About Your Stay

Can I Request a Dietary Restriction or Food Allergy Accommodation?

Yes, you can request dietary restriction or food allergy accommodations. The cooking class provider offers flexibility to cater to individual needs, so be sure to communicate any requirements when booking the experience.

Does the Class Have an Age Limit or Minimum Age Requirement?

The cooking class does not have an age limit or minimum age requirement. Children are welcome to participate, and accommodations can be made to ensure their safety and enjoyment during the cooking experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Class Duration or Add Activities?

The cooking class doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration or add activities. However, customers can inquire with the provider about customizing the experience to meet their needs and interests.

Can I Book the Class for a Private Group or Special Occasion?

Yes, the cooking class can be booked for a private group or special occasion. The provider offers customized experiences to accommodate larger groups or specific requirements, allowing customers to enjoy a tailored Peruvian cooking experience.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Cooking Class?

The cancellation and refund policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the class. You’ll get a full refund if you cancel within this timeframe, ensuring flexibility in your booking.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Peruvian Cooking Class in Cusco offers a truly immersive culinary experience. Participants explore the vibrant San Pedro Market, learn to craft iconic Peruvian dishes, and savor a flavorful three-course meal. With a bilingual instructor and a take-home recipe book, this class provides an excellent introduction to the rich gastronomic traditions of Peru.