London: Gluten-Free Dim Sum and Bao Cooking Class with Wine

If you’ve ever wondered how to craft fluffy gluten-free bao buns or make irresistible dim sum from scratch, this London cooking class might just be your new favorite culinary adventure. Led by experienced chefs from the School of Wok, this 3-hour experience promises a hands-on approach to mastering traditional Chinese dishes—minus the gluten—and a chance to unwind with a glass of wine or beer.

What truly makes this class stand out is the focus on gluten-free techniques, ensuring that everyone, whether gluten-sensitive or not, can enjoy delicious, authentic dim sum. We love that it strikes a balance between technical skill and fun, all set in a relaxed, friendly environment. The inclusion of a digital recipe pack means you can try your hand at these dishes at home—perfect for impressing friends or just satisfying your cravings. A potential consideration? The class size is small, which is great for personalized attention but might fill up quickly.

This experience suits food lovers eager to learn new skills, those with dietary restrictions, or anyone curious about Asian cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a complete beginner, this class offers plenty of value and authentic insights into a not-so-easy cuisine made approachable.

Key Points

• Hands-on experience: You get to make bao dough, fillings, and shape both buns and dumplings yourself.
• Gluten-free focus: Perfect for anyone with gluten sensitivities or looking for alternative cooking methods.
• Expert guidance: Led by professional chefs, with personal attention and opportunities to ask questions.
• Tasty results & drinks: Enjoy your creations paired with wine or beer, plus unlimited soft drinks.
• All-inclusive: Ingredients, equipment, apron hire, and a digital recipe pack are included.
• Small group size: Typically 6-12 students, ensuring a friendly, interactive environment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What’s on the Menu?

This class is designed to introduce you to a variety of dim sum essentials and bao buns, all made gluten-free. The menu includes fascinating dishes like Char Sui Pork Bao Buns—fluffy, flavorful, and tender—and Pork & Prawn Jiaozi, showcasing how to fold delicate dumplings with precision. You’ll also learn to prepare Gui Chai Tod, crispy garlic chive dumplings that deliver a satisfying crunch, paired with a refreshing Smashed Cucumber Salad. Each dish has been curated to deliver a balanced taste experience, combining savory, crispy, and cool flavors.

The Structure of the Class

Arriving at the School of Wok, you’re welcomed into a cozy, well-equipped space that’s perfect for small groups. The class begins with a brief introduction by the Head Chef or Assistant Chef, who explains what you’ll be making and why certain techniques matter. From there, the focus is hands-on: you’ll learn to make gluten-free bao dough that is fluffy and light—a task that many first-timers find surprisingly easy when guided step-by-step.

Then, it’s all about fillings and shaping. You’ll prepare flavorful options, which may include meat-based or vegetarian choices, and learn different folding and pleating techniques to give your dumplings and buns a professional look. The chefs emphasize technique, but they’re also friendly and ready to help you perfect your handiwork.

The Cooking & Tasting

Cooking takes place at the hob, often in pairs, which means you get to work with a partner and learn the art of pan-frying dumplings to crispy perfection without sticking. The class encourages interaction, so expect to ask questions and pick up tips from both the professional chefs and fellow participants.

Once cooked, you get to sit down and enjoy your creations paired with a good glass of wine or beer, a treat that elevates the experience and makes the whole thing feel more like a special occasion. The soft drinks and tea are available throughout, keeping everyone refreshed.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Reviewers Mention

Many past participants point out that the chefs are knowledgeable but also approachable, making the experience enjoyable regardless of skill level. One reviewer loved the way the class demystified bao dough, saying “I never thought gluten-free could be so light and fluffy,” and appreciated the detailed instructions on folding techniques.

Others note the value of the digital recipe pack, which they described as “a handy guide that makes recreating the dishes at home feasible, even for a beginner.” The small group size is also frequently praised, as it allows for personalized feedback, making sure everyone leaves feeling confident in their new skills.

Practical Details & Considerations

Duration & Group Size

The class lasts about 3 hours, striking a good balance between in-depth instruction and relaxed fun. The small group setting, usually between 6 and 12 people, creates an intimate environment where questions are welcomed and individual attention is guaranteed.

Price & Value

At $156 per person, this class offers a comprehensive package: ingredients, expert instruction, apron hire, all equipment, unlimited soft drinks, and a glass of wine or beer. The inclusion of all materials and the digital recipe pack means you can repeat dishes at home without extra cost.

Considering the hands-on nature and the quality of instruction, this price is quite reasonable. You’re not only learning new cooking skills but also getting a memorable experience accompanied by good wine—a nice touch that adds to the relaxed, convivial atmosphere.

Dietary & Practical Info

The class is accommodating to allergies and dietary restrictions, with options for alternatives where nuts, shellfish, or eggs are involved. It’s suitable for ages 16 and up, making it perfect for adults, couples, or groups of friends.

Participants are asked to avoid open-toed shoes, bare feet, and high heels for safety reasons. Post-class, you’re free to take leftovers home, which adds extra value and the chance to enjoy your creations later.

Accessibility & Booking

Flexible booking options allow you to reserve your spot now and pay later, providing peace of mind in case your plans change. Cancellations up to 24 hours beforehand are fully refundable, making it a low-risk commitment for curious foodies.

Why This Cooking Class Is Worth Considering

This experience is especially rewarding if you’re passionate about Asian cuisine or want to learn how to make gluten-free dishes that don’t compromise on texture or flavor. If you’ve ever struggled to find good gluten-free dim sum options, this class offers a practical solution—plus the confidence to recreate these dishes at home.

The focus on technique, from dough handling to dumpling pleating, means you’ll leave with skills that extend beyond this specific menu. The wine or beer pairing adds a celebratory touch, making it suitable for special occasions or a fun weekend activity.

For travelers who appreciate well-organized classes with a friendly atmosphere, this offering from the School of Wok hits the mark. The small group size ensures plenty of personal attention, and the inclusive nature of ingredients and equipment makes it a hassle-free culinary experience.

The Sum Up

This gluten-free dim sum and bao cooking class in London offers a rare blend of technical skill, authentic flavor, and relaxed enjoyment. The hands-on approach, led by seasoned chefs, makes it accessible whether you’re experienced in the kitchen or a total beginner. The focus on gluten-free options means everyone can indulge in these classics without worry, and the wine or beer adds a nice touch of sophistication.

The value for money is clear when you consider the level of instruction, the quality of ingredients, and the digital recipe pack to follow home. It’s perfect for food lovers eager to learn new techniques, those with dietary restrictions, or anyone wanting a memorable, interactive experience. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply exploring London’s culinary scene, this class is a smart choice.

If you’re seeking a fun, educational, and tasty activity that leaves you with new skills and delicious dishes, this class is well worth your time—and your taste buds will thank you.

FAQs

Is this class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed for all levels, from complete novices to more experienced cooks. The chefs provide step-by-step guidance to ensure everyone can follow along.

What dietary restrictions can be accommodated?
The class is happy to cater to allergies and dietary needs, including gluten-free options. If you have specific requirements, it’s best to inform the organizers in advance.

Are ingredients and equipment provided?
Absolutely. All ingredients and equipment are included, along with apron hire, so you don’t need to bring anything extra.

Can I buy additional items after the class?
While cookbooks and merchandise are not included, they are available for purchase after the class if you’re interested.

What drinks are included?
Participants enjoy unlimited soft drinks, plus a choice of wine or beer during the cooking and tasting portion of the class.

How many people are in each class?
Class sizes usually range between 6 and 12 students, creating a friendly, interactive environment with plenty of personal attention.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Avoid high heels and bare feet for safety reasons.

This gluten-free dim sum and bao class in London offers a delightful mix of skill, flavor, and fun, perfect for anyone wanting to bring some Asian culinary magic into their home kitchen.

You can check availability for your dates here: