Market and Mayan Cooking Class

Exploring the vibrant market in Antigua, Guatemala, sets the stage for an immersive Mayan cooking experience. Visitors can explore the heart of local cuisine, learning from a skilled chef how to prepare iconic dishes like pepian and hilachas. This hands-on class not only teaches traditional techniques but also provides a unique opportunity to understand Guatemalan culture through the lens of its rich culinary heritage. With limited class sizes, the experience promises an intimate and memorable journey for foodies.

Key Points

• This Guatemalan cooking class offers an exploration of traditional Mayan dishes, including pepian, hilachas, and jocon.
• The class includes a visit to the vibrant Central Market in Antigua to explore fresh ingredients used in Mayan cuisine.
• Participants prepare and enjoy a typical Mayan lunch under the guidance of a skilled local chef.
• The class includes round-trip transportation, all ingredients, a natural drink, and dessert.
• The class can accommodate a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 12 participants, with vegetarian options available upon request.

Overview of the Cooking Class

The Market and Mayan Cooking Class in Antigua, Guatemala offers travelers an immersive culinary experience, allowing them to explore traditional Mayan dishes.

The class takes place in the historic city, giving participants a chance to visit the local market and learn from a skilled local chef.

Participants visit the local market and learn from a skilled local chef in the historic city.

During the class, guests will prepare and enjoy a typical Mayan lunch, including dishes like pepian, hilachas, and jocon.

The class lasts several hours and includes round-trip transportation, all ingredients, a natural drink, and dessert.

Priced from $80 per person, the class caters to groups of 4 to 12 people.

Itinerary and Activities

The cooking class begins with a visit to the vibrant Central Market in Antigua, where participants explore the fresh ingredients used in traditional Mayan cuisine.

They then head to the cooking school, where a local chef leads them in preparing a typical Guatemalan lunch.

The class includes the preparation and enjoyment of iconic Mayan dishes like pepian, hilachas, and jocon.

Throughout the experience, participants enjoy Guatemalan culture, learning about the origins and techniques behind these flavorful regional specialties.

The class concludes with the dining experience, allowing guests to savor the fruits of their culinary labor.

Inclusions

Round-trip transportation from any hotel in La Antigua, as well as all ingredients for the dishes, including a recipe, are included in the price.

Guests will also enjoy a natural drink and dessert during the class. A local chef will guide participants through the cooking experience. Wifi and gratuities are also covered.

The class duration includes both the cooking and dining portions of the experience.

The class duration encompasses both the cooking and dining portions of the immersive Guatemalan culinary experience.

With a minimum booking requirement of 4 people and a maximum group size of 12, the Market and Mayan Cooking Class offers an immersive, all-inclusive Guatemalan culinary adventure.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Pickup is available from selected hotels or a designated meeting point in Antigua.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The minimum booking requirement is 4 people, and the maximum group size is 12 travelers.

• Pickup location options

• Booking confirmation timeline

• Minimum and maximum group sizes

• Vegetarian options available upon request

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

Additional Information

Although the cooking class isn’t wheelchair accessible, participants can opt for a vegetarian menu upon request at the time of booking.

The class also has a formal dress code. Importantly, the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before it starts.

Based on 1 review from Viator and Tripadvisor, the Market and Mayan Cooking Class has a 5.0 rating.

The class has a minimum booking requirement of 4 people and a maximum group size of 12 travelers. This ensures an intimate and personalized culinary experience immersed in Guatemalan culture.

Preparing the Traditional Dishes

The cooking class provides an immersive experience, allowing participants to prepare traditional Mayan dishes under the guidance of a local chef.

Participants learn to craft:

• Pepian, a rich, stew-like dish with chicken, vegetables, and a complex, nutty sauce

• Hilachas, a shredded beef stew with a tomato-based broth

• Jocon, a tangy chicken stew with tomatillos, cilantro, and spices

• And more Mayan specialties passed down through generations

With hands-on instruction, participants gain newfound appreciation for the vibrant flavors and techniques that define Guatemalan cuisine.

The class culminates in a shared meal, where travelers savor the fruits of their labor.

Experiencing Guatemalan Culture

Beyond just preparing the traditional dishes, the Market and Mayan Cooking Class immerses participants in Guatemalan culture.

Visitors start by exploring the vibrant Central Market, where they’ll interact with local vendors and select fresh ingredients.

During the class, the instructor shares the history and significance of each dish, fostering a deeper appreciation for Mayan culinary traditions.

Guests also learn about Guatemalan customs and enjoy a natural drink and dessert as part of the authentic experience.

Through this immersive program, travelers gain invaluable insights into the rich cultural fabric of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Cooking Class?

The cooking class doesn’t specify a minimum age requirement. As long as the participant meets the minimum group size of 4 people, they can join the experience regardless of their age.

Can I Request a Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free Option?

Yes, guests can request a gluten-free or dairy-free option when booking the cooking class. The local chef is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.

Is There an Opportunity to Purchase Local Crafts or Souvenirs?

The cooking class doesn’t offer an opportunity to purchase local crafts or souvenirs. However, visitors can explore the nearby Central Market before or after the class to browse and buy traditional Guatemalan handicrafts and items.

What Is the Dress Code for the Market Visit?

The dress code for the market visit is casual. Travelers can wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking around the market and exploring the local stalls and vendors.

Can I Bring My Own Alcohol to Consume During the Meal?

No, guests can’t bring their own alcohol to consume during the meal. The class includes a natural drink, and bringing outside alcohol is not permitted. Adherence to the class policies is expected from all participants.

The Sum Up

The Market and Mayan Cooking Class in Antigua, Guatemala, offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich culinary traditions of the Mayan culture. Through hands-on preparation of iconic dishes and a guided visit to the local market, participants can explore the vibrant flavors and traditions that make Guatemalan cuisine so distinctive. This intimate class provides a memorable experience for those seeking to explore the heart of Guatemalan gastronomic heritage.