Fully Hands-On High End Peruvian Cooking Class & San Pedro Market Guided Visit

Enjoy the vibrant culinary landscape of Peru with this hands-on cooking class and guided market tour. You’ll explore the bustling San Pedro Market, interacting with local vendors and discovering the fresh produce that shapes Peruvian cuisine. Then, you’ll dive into the art of crafting classic dishes like ceviche and sous vide alpaca, complemented by the iconic Pisco sour. The experience culminates in a gourmet three-course meal that showcases the rich flavors of this captivating country. Get ready to embark on a truly unforgettable culinary adventure.

Key Points

• Fully hands-on high-end Peruvian cooking class in Cusco, Peru with a 99% traveler recommendation based on 384 reviews.
• Guided exploration of the vibrant San Pedro Market to discover fresh produce, spices, and traditional Peruvian ingredients.
• Hands-on preparation of the classic Pisco sour cocktail, learning about its history and cultural significance.
• Crafting of classic Peruvian ceviche and Nikkei-influenced tiradito with fresh seafood and bold flavors.
• Cooking of quinoa risotto, sous vide alpaca, and local fruits parfait, showcasing diverse Peruvian culinary techniques and specialties.

Overview of the Cooking Class

Although the Peruvian Cooking Class & Market Visit offers a fully hands-on experience, it’s classified as a high-end culinary activity in Cusco, Peru.

The class boasts an impressive 99% traveler recommendation based on 384 reviews. Guests begin by exploring the vibrant San Pedro Market with a guide, followed by a cooking session in a colonial-style home.

Here, they prepare a gourmet 3-course meal featuring Peruvian specialties like ceviche, Pisco sours, and quinoa. A vegetarian option is available upon booking.

The experience is led by a professional chef and guide, with all necessary ingredients and equipment provided.

Exploring the San Pedro Market

The vibrant San Pedro Market serves as the starting point for the Peruvian Cooking Class & Market Visit, where guests embark on a guided exploration of this bustling hub of local cuisine and culture.

Under the expert guidance of the chef, visitors navigate the maze of stalls, discovering an array of fresh produce, spices, and traditional Peruvian ingredients.

The guide shares insights into the market’s history and importance in the local community, encouraging guests to interact with vendors and enjoy the sights, sounds, and aromas that define this iconic Cusco landmark.

This market visit sets the stage for the hands-on cooking experience to come.

Preparing the Pisco Sour

After returning from the vibrant San Pedro Market, participants commence the hands-on cooking class by preparing a classic Pisco sour. Under the guidance of the professional chef, they gather the necessary ingredients and equipment:

| Ingredient | Amount |

| — | — |

| Pisco | 2 oz |

| Lime juice | 1 oz |

| Simple syrup | 1 oz |

| Egg white | 1 |

| Ice | 1 cup |

The participants carefully measure, shake, and strain the cocktail, creating a frothy, balanced Pisco sour. As they sip their creations, the chef explains the history and cultural significance of this quintessential Peruvian beverage, setting the stage for the delectable meal to come.

Crafting the Classic Ceviche and Tiradito Nikkei

Having savored the refreshing Pisco sour, participants now turn their attention to crafting the classic Peruvian ceviche and the Nikkei-influenced tiradito.

Under the chef’s guidance, they meticulously prepare the fresh seafood, balancing citrus, spice, and aromatic herbs.

For the ceviche, participants carefully slice the fish, letting it "cook" in the tangy marinade.

The tiradito, a Japanese-Peruvian fusion, requires delicate slicing and layering of the fish, complemented by a boldly flavored sauce.

As the dishes take shape, the kitchen fills with the vibrant, zesty scents of these signature Peruvian specialties.

Cooking the Quinoa Risotto and Sous Vide Alpaca

Next, participants turn their attention to crafting the quinoa risotto and sous vide alpaca. They learn how to expertly prepare these Peruvian specialties:

• Combining quinoa, broth, and aromatics to create a creamy, satisfying risotto
• Seasoning and slow-cooking the tender alpaca meat using the sous vide technique
• Roasting potatoes to serve as the perfect accompaniment to the rich alpaca
• Plating the dishes with flair, highlighting the vibrant colors and textures
• Savoring the harmonious flavors and textures of this gourmet Peruvian meal.

The class culminates in a shared feast, allowing participants to fully enjoy the delights of Peruvian cuisine.

Assembling the Local Fruits Parfait

As the cooking class nears its conclusion, participants turn their attention to assembling the local fruits parfait.

The chef guides them through layering fresh, vibrant fruits like mango, papaya, and passionfruit in clear glasses. They carefully spoon in creamy vanilla-infused yogurt, creating a visually stunning and delightful dessert.

The chef emphasizes the importance of using the ripest, most flavorful fruits to showcase the bounty of Peru’s produce.

With a final dusting of toasted quinoa for crunch, the parfaits are complete, a sweet and refreshing end to the Peruvian culinary journey.

The Cooking Studio Experience

The participants eagerly step into the charming colonial-style home, ready to enjoy the hands-on cooking experience.

The spacious, well-equipped kitchen provides ample space for the group to work alongside the professional chef. The cooking studio exudes an inviting atmosphere, with:

• Stainless steel appliances and gleaming countertops
• Vibrant Peruvian art and textiles adorning the walls
• Fragrant herbs and spices within reach on the shelves
• A large communal table for collaborative meal preparation
• Ample natural light streaming in through the windows

Under the chef’s guidance, the group embarks on crafting an authentic three-course Peruvian feast, blending traditional techniques with modern flair.

Feedback and Recommendations

How do the reviews for this Peruvian cooking class fare? Overwhelmingly positive, with 99% of travelers recommending the experience.

Guests rave about the engaging market tour, knowledgeable chefs, and delicious meals. Many consider it a top activity in Cusco. Reviewers praise the personalized instruction, cultural insights, and enjoyable atmosphere.

A few mentioned less enthusiastic guides, but the hosts have addressed these issues to ensure improvements. The cooking class offers an immersive experience, combining market exploration with hands-on cooking under professional guidance – a must-try for foodies visiting Cusco.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Alcohol to the Class?

The cooking class doesn’t allow guests to bring their own alcohol. However, extra alcoholic drinks like Pisco sours are available for purchase during the experience to complement the delicious Peruvian cuisine prepared.

Is There an Option to Have the Entire Class in English?

Yes, the cooking class offers an English-only option. The professional chef and guide are fully fluent in English, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience for all participants. Guests can enjoy the class in their preferred language.

How Early Should I Arrive at the Meeting Point?

The class recommends arriving at the meeting point about 15 minutes early. This allows time to check-in, get acquainted with the group, and prepare for the market visit and cooking session ahead. Punctuality ensures you don’t miss any part of the experience.

Can I Take the Leftovers From the Cooking Class Home?

Unfortunately, the cooking class doesn’t allow guests to take leftovers home. The focus is on the hands-on cooking experience and enjoying the freshly prepared 3-course meal together during the class. Any extra food is typically consumed or discarded on-site.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Beyond Vegetarian?

Yes, the cooking class can accommodate other dietary restrictions beyond vegetarian. Guests can request gluten-free, dairy-free, or other special diets when booking, and the chef will prepare the menu accordingly.

The Sum Up

This immersive Peruvian cooking experience offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the vibrant culinary traditions of Peru. From the vibrant San Pedro Market to the hands-on preparation of iconic dishes, participants are treated to a comprehensive exploration of Peruvian gastronomy. The class culminates in a gourmet three-course meal, leaving attendees with a newfound appreciation for the rich flavors and techniques that define this captivating cuisine.