Discover the rich culinary heritage of Sicily through an immersive cooking class in Palermo. Led by the charming Mamma Corleone, this intimate experience takes participants on a journey from black to white – exploring traditional dishes like caponata, anchovy fishballs, and lemon cake. With hands-on instruction and local wine, the class promises not just a delicious meal but also a deeper understanding of the region’s vibrant flavors. But what secrets will Mamma Corleone unveil as you step into her kitchen?
Key Points
- The Sicilian cooking class focuses on preparing classical Sicilian dishes, including caponata, anchovy fishballs, and lemon cake.
- The class is hosted by Mamma Corleone in Palermo, Italy and is limited to six participants for an intimate learning experience.
- Participants will learn traditional cooking techniques and flavors under the guidance of the host, with an opportunity to actively engage in the preparation.
- The class includes a complete meal with alcoholic beverages, and takes place in a short walking distance from the meeting point at Vicolo Carini, 8.
- The class has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, though it may not be accessible for wheelchair users due to its location.
Class Overview
The Sicilian Cooking Class: From Black to White is held in Palermo, Italy and hosted by Mamma Corleone, the matriarch of a family business.
The class size is limited to six participants. There are options for either a lunch or early dinner class.
Students will learn to prepare classical Sicilian dishes, including a starter of caponata, a main of anchovy fishballs, and a dessert of lemon cake.
The class begins at the meeting point of Vicolo Carini, 8, 90134 Palermo PA, Italy and returns to the same location after the cooking and dining experience.
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Cooking Experience
During the Sicilian Cooking Class, you will learn to prepare classical Sicilian dishes.
Participants will learn to prepare classical Sicilian dishes during the Sicilian Cooking Class.
The menu includes a starter of Caponata, a delightful eggplant-based appetizer with bell peppers, celery, tomatoes, olives, and capers.
For the main course, they’ll make Anchovy Fishballs, which can be fried or served with a savory sauce.
To finish, they’ll bake a fragrant Lemon Cake, a soft and citrusy Sicilian dessert.
Throughout the class, the host, Mamma Corleone, will guide participants through the traditional techniques and flavors that make Sicilian cuisine so beloved.
Meeting and Pickup
Participants meet Mamma Corleone at their designated starting point, Vicolo Carini, 8, 90134 Palermo PA, Italy.
It’s a short walk from the popular Corso Vittorio Emanuele, right past the Cathedral of Palermo.
After gathering the group, Mamma leads them straight down the 100-meter Vicolo Carini to her family’s cooking studio.
At the end of the class, the participants return to the original meeting point.
The cooking experience is self-contained, with no need for additional transportation.
Mamma ensures a seamless start and finish to the intimate, hands-on Sicilian cooking adventure.
Inclusions and Pricing
The Sicilian Cooking Class includes a complete menu for either lunch or dinner, along with traditional Sicilian cooking instruction and alcoholic beverages such as wine.
Pricing for the class starts at $178.80 per person, though the exact cost may vary depending on the group size. The booking policy is non-refundable.
Reviews and Additional Information
The Sicilian Cooking Class has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a 4.7 rating based on feedback from Viator and Tripadvisor.
Participants have praised the patience and professionalism of Maria Pia, the matriarch who hosts the small-group classes.
The cooking experience allows guests to learn how to prepare classical Sicilian dishes, from the savory caponata starter to the sweet lemon cake dessert.
Confirmation is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.
The class accommodates service animals and is near public transportation, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
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Preparing for the Class
To prepare for the Sicilian Cooking Class, guests should first arrive at the designated meeting point – Mamma Corleone‘s home on Vicolo Carini, 8 in Palermo.
The class starts promptly, so participants should plan to arrive a few minutes early.
Once there, guests will meet Mamma Corleone, the matriarch of the family business, who’ll lead the intimate class of up to six people.
Participants should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes, as they’ll be actively involved in the cooking.
The class includes a full meal, so guests can come hungry and ready to learn the secrets of traditional Sicilian cuisine.
The Caponata Experience
As participants enter Mamma Corleone’s kitchen, they’ll find the ingredients for the Sicilian starter, caponata, neatly arranged on the countertop.
Under Mamma’s guidance, they’ll learn to chop and sauté the eggplant, bell peppers, celery, and tomatoes. The flavors meld as the caponata simmers – the sweet-and-sour notes of vinegar, the briny olives and capers, and the fragrant basil.
Mamma demonstrates the importance of balancing the ingredients, tasting and adjusting as needed. Soon, the kitchen fills with the enticing aroma.
Participants eagerly await their first bite of this classic Sicilian dish, ready to savor the vibrant flavors.
Savoring the Sicilian Flavors
With the caponata masterfully prepared, participants eagerly await the next course.
The chef, Mamma Corleone, presents the sizzling anchovy fishballs, either fried or simmered in a savory sauce. The succulent morsels burst with the briny essence of the sea, balanced by aromatic herbs and spices.
As diners savor each bite, they’re transported to the heart of Sicilian cuisine.
For dessert, a lemon cake delights the senses – its soft, moist crumb infused with the fragrant zest of Sicilian lemons.
With each course, participants enjoy the rich culinary traditions of this island paradise.
The Sum Up
The "Sicilian Cooking Class: From Black to White" offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich culinary heritage of Sicily. From preparing traditional dishes like caponata and lemon cake to savoring local wines, participants can expect a hands-on, intimate experience that delves deep into the flavors and traditions of this captivating region. Whether a seasoned cook or a curious foodie, this class promises an unforgettable culinary adventure.
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