Cusco: Peruvian Cooking Class, Cocktails & Local Market Tour

Exploring the vibrant culinary heritage of Peru is a captivating experience in Cusco. This 4-hour adventure whisks travelers through the historic San Pedro Market, where they’ll uncover exotic ingredients before seeing a hands-on cooking class. Under the guidance of a renowned local chef, you will learn to prepare iconic Peruvian dishes, all while savoring refreshing cocktails. With options to accommodate various dietary needs, this immersive experience promises to elevate one’s appreciation for the country’s rich gastronomic traditions. What delectable discoveries await?

Key Points

• This 4-hour culinary experience in Cusco includes a tour of the San Pedro Market, a hands-on cooking class, and the opportunity to craft two traditional cocktails.
• Participants will learn how to prepare authentic Peruvian dishes such as cebiche, causa limeña, and quinoa tamal under the guidance of a professional chef.
• The class features a wide range of local ingredients, including exotic fruits, fresh cheeses, and various types of potatoes, and caters to dietary restrictions.
• The tour and cooking class are led by a bilingual guide, providing insight into Peruvian culinary traditions and the vibrant San Pedro Market.
• With an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 276 reviews, this experience offers exceptional value and an immersive introduction to Peruvian cuisine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The activity titled "Cusco: Peruvian Cooking Class, Cocktails & Local Market Tour" offers a comprehensive 4-hour culinary experience in Cusco, Peru.

Priced from $65 per person, this tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Participants will explore the historic San Pedro Market, learning about exotic local ingredients.

Then, they’ll cook three Peruvian dishes and craft two cocktails under the guidance of a professional chef.

The experience also includes a tasting of traditional Picarones.

With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available, this unique tour is likely to sell out, so advance booking is recommended.

Culinary Experience

Exploring San Pedro Market, one of the oldest in Cusco, participants discover exotic fruits, local cheeses, freshly baked bread, rich chocolate, fragrant cacao, nutritious quinoa, and a variety of potatoes.

Discover a treasure trove of Andean delights at the centuries-old San Pedro Market in Cusco.

Under the guidance of Chef Jesus, they learn to craft three traditional Peruvian dishes:

1. Cebiche – a refreshing seafood dish

2. Causa Limeña – a layered potato casserole

3. Quinoa Tamal – a savory steamed dumpling

The culinary experience culminates with the creation of two refreshing cocktails and a tasting of traditional Picarones, a sweet fritter with honey.

Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available.

Class Features

As participants embark on the culinary adventure, they’ll be accompanied by a live tour guide available in both Spanish and English.

The guide will introduce them to Professional Chef Jesus, who’ll provide expert guidance throughout the cooking class.

The experience includes all necessary ingredients, as well as a traditional Picarones tasting and a refreshing Chicha Morada drink.

Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menus are available, ensuring a catered experience for all dietary needs.

With this comprehensive package, participants can enjoy the rich flavors and traditions of Peruvian cuisine.

Meeting Point and Requirements

Participants will meet at Door Number 1 at San Pedro Market, the designated meeting point for this culinary experience.

The tour requires comfortable shoes and clothes to fully enjoy the walking and hands-on cooking. This class isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old.

To prepare for the experience:

1. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire.

2. Bring your appetite – there will be plenty of delicious Peruvian treats to sample.

3. Leave valuables at home, as the market can get crowded.

4. Come with an open mind and ready to learn about Cusco’s vibrant culinary culture.

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Customer Feedback

With an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 276 reviews, this Cusco cooking class and market tour has clearly captivated participants.

The guide’s expertise earns a 4.9/5 rating, and the value for money is equally impressive at 4.9/5. Reviewers praise the unique touch to traditional dishes, the guide’s deep knowledge of Peruvian cuisine history, and the enjoyable cooking atmosphere.

Participants particularly appreciate receiving the recipes after the class and developing a newfound appreciation for the vibrant San Pedro Market.

This comprehensive culinary experience leaves a lasting impression on those seeking an authentic taste of Cusco.

Exploring San Pedro Market

The cooking class begins with an exploration of San Pedro Market, one of Cusco’s oldest and most vibrant marketplaces.

Participants weave through the bustling aisles, taking in the sights, sounds, and aromas that make this destination a foodie’s paradise.

The market offers a tantalizing array of local delights:

1. Exotic fruits, including mango, passionfruit, and custard apple.

2. An assortment of Peruvian cheeses, from creamy queso fresco to savory Andean varieties.

3. Freshly baked bread, from fluffy quinoa loaves to traditional Cusco flatbreads.

4. Vibrant displays of cacao, quinoa, and an impressive array of potatoes.

Peruvian Dishes and Cocktails

After exploring the lively San Pedro Market, participants then make their way to the cooking station to begin crafting three classic Peruvian dishes under the guidance of Chef Jesus.

First, they’ll learn the art of preparing cebiche, a fresh seafood dish marinated in citrus juices.

Next, they’ll tackle causa limeña, a creamy mashed potato dish layered with avocado and protein.

Finally, they’ll craft a savory quinoa tamal.

In between cooking, you will also mix two refreshing cocktails, like the classic Pisco Sour.

Throughout, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Peru’s vibrant culinary traditions.

Tasting Picarones and Chicha Morada

Participants then enjoy a taste of traditional Picarones, a beloved Peruvian dessert made of fried sweet potato and pumpkin rings drizzled in fragrant chancaca honey.

The class also includes a refreshing sip of Chicha Morada, a purple corn-based beverage that’s a staple in Cusco.

This unique drink offers a delightful blend of:

1. Sweet and tart flavors from the purple corn

2. Subtle spices like cinnamon and clove

3. A touch of citrus from freshly squeezed lime

4. Sweetness from panela or piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar)

These traditional Peruvian delights provide a delicious finale to the cooking class experience.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages to the Class?

Based on the event details, outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted. The class includes making two cocktails, but no personal alcohol can be brought in. Participants are expected to enjoy the provided drinks and food without supplementing their own alcohol.

Is the Cooking Class Suitable for People With Dietary Restrictions?

The cooking class accommodates people with dietary restrictions. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menus are available. The chef provides guidance on modifying dishes to suit individual needs, ensuring all participants can fully enjoy the culinary experience.

What Is the Class Size, and Is It Private or Group-Based?

The class size is group-based, with a maximum of 10 participants. It’s not a private class, allowing travelers to meet and cook alongside fellow foodies from around the world in an enjoyable, interactive atmosphere.

Do I Need to Have Prior Cooking Experience to Participate?

No prior cooking experience is required to participate. The class is designed for beginners and experts alike, providing hands-on guidance from a professional chef throughout the cooking session.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Attendees?

The tour has an age restriction – it’s not suitable for children under 10 years old. Participants must be at least 10 years old to attend the cooking class.

Sum Up

This immersive Peruvian culinary adventure allows you to discover the vibrant flavors of Cusco. You’ll explore the lively San Pedro Market, learn to prepare classic dishes like cebiche and causa limeña, and savor two refreshing cocktails – all while gaining a deeper appreciation for the rich culinary traditions of Peru. Whether you’re a foodie or simply curious about Peruvian cuisine, this hands-on cooking class promises an authentic and delightful experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: