Half Day of Cooking and Chocolate at Cocoa Farm From Guayaquil

Explore the heart of Ecuador’s rich culinary heritage with a half-day adventure at a nearby cocoa farm. This immersive experience allows visitors to craft their own chocolate and learn traditional cooking techniques. From savory stews to freshly fried fish, you’ll savor the vibrant flavors that make Ecuadorian cuisine so distinctive. With air-conditioned transportation and a delicious local lunch included, this intimate group tour promises an authentic taste of the country’s vibrant culture.

Key Points

• A half-day immersion experience that combines hands-on activities related to cocoa farming and chocolate production in Guayaquil, Ecuador.
• Includes a private cooking class featuring classic Ecuadorian dishes, such as savory chicken stew, fried fish, and Muchines de Yuca.
• The chicken stew is a signature dish made with beer, naranjilla, cumin, and achiote, served with rice and fried plantains.
• The fried fish is seasoned with garlic, cumin, salt, and mustard, and served with crispy fried green plantains.
• The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, private transfers, all fees and taxes, snacks, bottled water, and a delicious local lunch.

Overview of the Cocoa Farm Experience

The Cocoa Farm Experience from Guayaquil offers visitors a half-day immersion in the world of chocolate making.

Located in the city of Guayaquil, Ecuador, this private tour provides an intimate group setting where guests can engage in hands-on activities related to cocoa farming and chocolate production.

The experience is priced from $226 per person, with the exact cost varying based on group size.

Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the cocoa cultivation process, create their own chocolate confections, and savor traditional Ecuadorian dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Culinary Highlights of the Cooking Class

What culinary delights await visitors at the Cocoa Farm Experience? The highlight is the cooking class, where participants learn to prepare classic Ecuadorian dishes.

Visitors to the Cocoa Farm Experience can look forward to a cooking class where they learn to make classic Ecuadorian dishes.

The menu includes a savory chicken stew cooked with beer, naranjilla, cumin, and achiote, served with rice, fried plantains, and salad.

The fried fish, either whole or filleted sea bass, is seasoned with garlic, cumin, and mustard, accompanied by fried green plantains.

The meal starts with a refreshing ceviche of marinated seafood or fish, onion, tomato, and cilantro, served with roasted corn or popcorn.

For dessert, guests savor the delightful Muchines de Yuca, a snack made with grated yucca, cheese, and egg.

Chicken Stew Recipe

One key dish in the Cocoa Farm Experience is the savory chicken stew. Cooked with beer, naranjilla, cumin, and achiote, this hearty stew is served with:

• Fluffy white rice

• Crispy fried ripe plantain

• Fresh salad

• Flavorful seasonings

The chicken is slow-simmered until tender, infusing the broth with a rich, complex taste.

Naranjilla, a tart tropical fruit, adds a bright note, while cumin and achiote lend earthy spice.

This comforting stew highlights the vibrant flavors of Ecuadorian cuisine, making it a highlight of the hands-on cooking class.

Fried Fish Preparation

While the chicken stew highlights the savory and comforting flavors of Ecuadorian cuisine, the fried fish dish showcases the vibrant seafood found along the country’s coasts.

The cooks prepare the fish, which can be whole or filleted sea bass, with a simple yet flavorful seasoning of garlic, cumin, and salt. A touch of mustard adds a subtle tang.

The fish is then fried to golden perfection, served alongside crispy fried green plantains. This dish allows the fresh, briny essence of the seafood to shine, complemented by the starchy, slightly sweet plantains.

Ceviche Starter

As the first course, the ceviche starter offers a refreshing and tangy introduction to the meal.

This classic Ecuadorian seafood dish features:

• Marinated seafood or fish, typically white fish or shrimp

• Onion, tomato, and cilantro for a bright, flavorful mixture

• Served with roasted corn or popcorn for texture and crunch

• A light, zesty citrus dressing that "cooks" the seafood without heat

The ceviche starter primes the palate, preparing guests for the heartier main dishes to come.

The ceviche starter primes the palate, preparing guests for the heartier main dishes to come.

Its vibrant flavors and refreshing qualities make it a perfect beginning to the Cocoa Farm culinary experience.

Muchines De Yuca Dessert

After the savory main courses, the Muchines de Yuca dessert offers a satisfying sweet conclusion to the Cocoa Farm culinary experience.

These snacks are made with grated yucca, cheese, egg, and other ingredients. The result is a delightful fried treat that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Muchines de Yuca provide a tasty contrast to the earlier dishes, rounding out the diverse flavors of the half-day cooking class. Visitors can expect to learn the traditional recipe and techniques for preparing this beloved Ecuadorian specialty during their time at the cocoa farm.

Included Amenities for the Tour

The Cocoa Farm experience in Guayaquil, Ecuador includes a range of amenities to enhance the culinary adventure.

The tour provides air-conditioned transportation and private transfers to and from the hotel. All fees and taxes are included, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Snacks and bottled water are provided throughout the day, keeping participants energized. Guests can enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local dishes like chicken stew and fried fish.

These thoughtful inclusions create a well-rounded and immersive culinary journey for participants of all skill levels.

• Air-conditioned vehicle

• Private transportation

• All fees and taxes

• Snacks and lunch

Logistics and Booking Information

Although the Cocoa Farm experience in Guayaquil, Ecuador provides pickup from the hotel at 9 AM, confirmation is received at the time of booking.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Guests can reserve now and pay later. Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The experience includes private transportation, all fees and taxes, snacks and lunch, as well as bottled water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Vegetarian/Vegan Menu Option Available?

The activity does not explicitly mention a vegetarian or vegan menu option. Customers should contact the tour provider to inquire about accommodating dietary restrictions, as many cooking experiences can be adapted to suit various dietary needs.

Can Participants Suggest Their Own Recipe Ideas?

Participants can suggest their own recipe ideas to incorporate into the cooking experience. The chef will work with guests to customize the menu and teach them how to prepare their preferred dishes.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Experience?

The group size for this experience varies, but it’s a private tour where only your group participates. The price range provided indicates it’s likely suitable for small to medium-sized groups.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Family-Friendly Policies?

This experience is family-friendly, with no age restrictions. Children are welcome to participate in the cooking and chocolate-making activities. The tour provider accommodates groups of all sizes and skill levels.

Can Participants Take Home the Food They Prepare?

Participants can take home the food they prepare during the experience. The activity includes packaging the dishes so guests can enjoy their culinary creations after the class.

The Sum Up

This immersive cocoa farm experience near Guayaquil promises a delightful taste of Ecuador’s vibrant flavors and culture. Participants can look forward to hands-on chocolate making, a cooking class featuring traditional dishes, and a delicious local lunch – all with air-conditioned transportation provided. It’s an intimate group activity that offers a rich exploration of the art of cocoa farming and Ecuadorian cuisine.