4-Hour Guided Panamanian Cooking Class and Markets Experience

Unlock the vibrant flavors of Panama with this immersive cooking class. Led by an expert chef, you’ll explore local markets, uncover authentic ingredients, and master traditional dishes. From zesty ceviche to hearty tamales, this hands-on experience promises a delectable introduction to Panamanian cuisine. With dietary accommodations available and a satisfying late lunch included, it’s the perfect way to savor the country’s culinary heritage. What secrets will you uncover in the kitchen?

Key Points

• Explore the vibrant local markets with a guided tour, learning about traditional Panamanian ingredients and their cultural significance.
• Learn to prepare authentic Panamanian starters like ceviche and carimañola, which introduce participants to the flavors of the cuisine.
• Master the preparation of hearty main dishes, such as Pollo Guisado (stewed chicken) and Tamale Tipica, under the guidance of a local chef.
• Enjoy a late lunch featuring the dishes prepared during the class, accompanied by complimentary beverages.
• The class accommodates various dietary restrictions, ensuring an inclusive culinary experience for all participants.

Overview of the Cooking Class Experience

The 4-hour guided Panamanian cooking class takes place in Panama City, with a maximum group size of 8 travelers.

Held at Restaurante El Nacional in Casco Viejo, you will learn to prepare authentic Panamanian dishes under the guidance of Chef Jorge.

The class includes a visit to local markets to gather fresh ingredients, providing insights into the country’s food culture and vendors.

Discover Panama’s vibrant food culture through a market visit and hands-on cooking class.

Afterward, attendees enjoy a late lunch featuring the dishes they’ve prepared, accompanied by complimentary beverages like sodas, juices, beers, cocktails, and wine.

Many reviewers praise the engaging experience and delicious food.

Exploring the Local Markets

After gathering at the meeting point, participants embark on a captivating journey through the local markets of Panama City.

Led by Chef Jorge, they explore the vibrant stalls, taking in the sights, sounds, and aromas of the diverse produce, seafood, and spices.

The group learns about the cultural significance of traditional ingredients, with the chef sharing insights into the culinary traditions of Panama.

Participants have the opportunity to interact with local vendors, haggling for the freshest items to be used in the cooking class.

This immersive market experience sets the stage for the hands-on culinary adventure that follows.

Panamanian Cuisine: Starters and Appetizers

Two traditional Panamanian starters featured in the cooking class are Panamanian-style ceviche and carimañola.

The ceviche is a refreshing seafood dish that marries the citrusy bite of lime juice with tender fish and shrimp.

Carimañola, on the other hand, is a savory mashed yuca pastry stuffed with either meat or a vegetarian filling.

These appetizers offer a tantalizing introduction to Panamanian cuisine, whetting the appetite for the main courses to come.

Participants learn to prepare these dishes under the guidance of the chef, gaining an authentic understanding of Panamanian flavors and culinary traditions.

Authentic Main Dishes: Pollo Guisado and Tamale Tipica

As the cooking class progresses, participants dive into the preparation of two iconic Panamanian main dishes: Pollo Guisado and Tamale Tipica.

Pollo Guisado is a stewed chicken dish, where the tender chicken is simmered in a flavorful blend of tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices.

A stewed chicken dish where tender chicken is simmered in a flavorful blend of tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices.

Meanwhile, the Tamale Tipica showcases the traditional Panamanian tamale. Guests learn to prepare the corn masa, fill it with seasoned meat or vegetables, and wrap it in banana leaves for steaming.

These hearty main courses provide a delightful exploration of Panamanian culinary traditions, complementing the starter dishes from the earlier portion of the class.

Sweet Indulgence: Plátano En Tentación

Having indulged in the savory main dishes, the class now turns its attention to a sweet Panamanian delight – Plátano En Tentación.

This decadent dessert features ripe plantains cooked in a rich, aromatic sauce of cinnamon, molasses, and citrus. The plantains are caramelized to perfection, creating a mouthwatering balance of sweetness and spice.

This traditional treat showcases the diverse flavors of Panamanian cuisine, blending indigenous and Spanish influences.

As the class learns to prepare this beloved dessert, they’ll savor the comforting and indulgent notes that make Plátano En Tentación a fitting end to their culinary journey.

Dietary Accommodations and Inclusivity

How accommodating is the Panamanian cooking class to guests with dietary restrictions?

The class offers flexibility to cater to a variety of dietary needs. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available, allowing all participants to fully engage in the culinary experience.

The menu includes:

• Vegetarian and meat-free versions of the traditional Panamanian dishes, such as the carimañola.
• Gluten-free substitutions for items like the tamale tipica.
• Customized preparation to accommodate individual dietary preferences and restrictions.

This inclusive approach ensures that everyone can savor the flavors of Panama, regardless of their dietary requirements.

Included Amenities and Beverages

The cooking class includes a late lunch based on the dishes prepared during the session.

Participants enjoy complimentary bottled water throughout the experience.

The class also provides a selection of alcoholic beverages, including sodas, juices, beers, cocktails, and wine.

This allows participants to savor the flavors of Panama while learning about the local cuisine.

The included amenities ensure a well-rounded and immersive culinary experience, leaving participants satisfied and with a deeper appreciation for Panamanian food and culture.

Feedback From Travelers

What do travelers have to say about this Panamanian cooking class experience? Based on the 80 reviews, the class receives a 4.9-star rating with nearly universal praise from participants.

Travelers rave about this Panamanian cooking class, with a near-perfect 4.9-star rating based on 80 glowing reviews.

Key highlights include:

• An engaging market tour where guests learn about local food culture and vendors.
• An interactive cooking experience led by the knowledgeable Chef Jorge.
• A delicious multi-course meal featuring authentic Panamanian dishes.

While some reported the class ran longer than the advertised 4 hours, the majority found the experience to be thoroughly enjoyable and educational for foodies and families alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Cooking Class Suitable for Children?

Yes, the Panamanian cooking class is well-suited for children. With a maximum group size of 8, the hands-on experience and family-friendly menu make it an engaging activity for kids to learn about Panamanian cuisine and culture.

Can We Take the Recipes Home After the Class?

Yes, participants can typically take home the recipes they learn during the Panamanian cooking class. The class provides hands-on instruction and an opportunity to learn traditional dishes and cooking techniques from a local chef.

Does the Class Accommodate Private or Group Bookings?

The cooking class accommodates both private and group bookings. Travelers can book the class for their group or join a small group of up to 8 participants, making it flexible for individual and group experiences.

Are There Any Safety Precautions During the Market Visit?

The cooking class includes a guided market visit, where the chef ensures participants’ safety by providing instructions and oversight. Travelers can feel confident exploring the local markets under the chef’s supervision.

Can We Request Specific Panamanian Dishes to Be Taught?

Yes, the cooking class allows guests to request specific Panamanian dishes they’d like to learn. The chef aims to accommodate preferences and dietary needs, making the experience customized to each group’s interests.

The Sum Up

This guided Panamanian cooking class provides an immersive culinary experience. Participants will explore local markets, learn to prepare traditional dishes, and savor a delicious late lunch featuring their own creations. With dietary accommodations available and positive traveler feedback, this class offers an authentic taste of Panamanian cuisine in an intimate setting.