Small Group – Cretan Cuisine – Cooking Lessons in Heraklion

Enjoy the captivating culinary traditions of Crete. This small group cooking lesson in Heraklion promises an authentic experience, guiding you through the preparation of iconic local dishes. From visiting an olive oil press to savoring a traditional Greek coffee, you’ll uncover the vibrant flavors and time-honored techniques that define Cretan cuisine. With expert instruction and a curated wine pairing, this 5-hour adventure promises to transport your senses to the heart of the Mediterranean. Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper into the details.

Key Points

• Small group cooking lessons in Heraklion, Crete, priced at €195.00 per person, with a duration of 5 hours and a maximum of 7 participants.
• Participants learn to prepare iconic Cretan dishes like Dakos, Tzatziki, Gemista, and Cretan salad, with guidance from a local expert.
• The experience includes a visit to an Olive Oil Press, a traditional Greek coffee experience, and a dinner featuring the prepared dishes paired with local wines and raki.
• Pickup from accommodation and transportation via private Mercedes Benz van with a professional English-speaking guide are included in the package.
• Guests must notify the tour operator of any food allergies or intolerances, and alcohol consumption is prohibited for individuals under 18 years old.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The small group Cretan Cuisine Cooking Lessons in Heraklion are priced from €195.00 per person, with a duration of 5 hours and limited to 7 participants.

Customers can reserve their spot now and pay later. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The cooking experience includes learning to prepare iconic Cretan dishes, understanding their significance and history, and enjoying the creations paired with local wines and traditional Cretan raki.

The tour also features a visit to an Olive Oil Press and a traditional Greek coffee experience.

Cooking Experience

Participants learn to prepare iconic Cretan dishes like Dakos, Tzatziki, Gemista (stuffed vegetables), and Cretan salad under the guidance of a local expert. They understand the significance and history of each dish while cooking. The creations are paired with local wines and traditional Cretan raki, allowing participants to fully enjoy the authentic flavors of Crete.

| Dish | Key Ingredient | Preparation Method |

| — | — | — |

| Dakos | Barley Rusk | Topped with tomato, feta, and olive oil |

| Tzatziki | Yogurt | Creamy dip with cucumber and garlic |

| Gemista | Vegetables | Stuffed with rice, herbs, and minced meat |

| Cretan Salad | Greens | Dressed with Cretan olive oil and vinegar |

Tour Highlights

Along With the cooking experience, the tour highlights an olive oil press visit where participants learn the olive oil-making process.

This provides a deeper understanding of the key ingredient in Cretan cuisine.

Dinner is included, featuring the dishes prepared during the lesson, paired with 2 glasses of Cretan wine and raki.

Guests also enjoy Greek coffee in a traditional cafe.

The tour includes:

• Visit to an Olive Oil Press

• Dinner with 2 glasses of Cretan wine and raki

• Greek coffee in a traditional cafe

• Personal expenses and extra wines not included

Transportation and Logistics

Pickup from accommodation is included, and participants are transported in a private Mercedes Benz van driven by a professional English-speaking guide.

All fees, taxes, and liability insurance are covered. The vehicle can accommodate the group of up to 7 participants.

Pets, smoking, and food aren’t allowed in the van. If needed, child seating is available upon request.

Alcohol consumption isn’t permitted for individuals under 18 years old.

This private transportation ensures a seamless and comfortable experience as participants embark on their Cretan culinary adventure.

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Important Information

Guests must abide by a few important rules during the experience. No pets or smoking are allowed in the vehicle.

Notify the tour operator of any food allergies or intolerances ahead of time. Child seating is available upon request. Plus, alcohol consumption isn’t permitted for individuals under 18 years old.

These guidelines ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable cooking lesson for all participants. The team is committed to providing an exceptional Cretan cuisine experience while respecting the needs and preferences of each guest.

Explore the Olive Oil-Making Process

As part of the Cretan cuisine cooking lesson, you will visit an olive oil press to learn the intricate process of olive oil production.

They’ll discover how olives are harvested, cleaned, and pressed to extract the precious liquid gold.

The guide will explain the significance of olive oil in Cretan culture and cuisine, and how the quality of the oil affects the flavor of traditional dishes.

Olive oil’s significance in Cretan culture and cuisine, and how its quality shapes the flavors of traditional dishes.

Participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the care and craftsmanship involved in creating high-quality olive oil, an integral component of the Mediterranean diet and Cretan culinary traditions.

Indulge in Cretan Cuisine and Beverages

During the cooking lesson, you will have the opportunity to prepare iconic Cretan dishes under the guidance of a local expert.

The menu includes:

• Dakos, a traditional Cretan appetizer of barley rusk, tomato, and feta

• Tzatziki, a refreshing yogurt-based dip

• Gemista, stuffed vegetables

• Cretan salad, a flavorful mix of local greens and produce

These creations will be paired with local wines and the famous Cretan raki.

The evening concludes with a Greek coffee served in a traditional cafe, allowing participants to savor the rich flavors and cultural experience of Crete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet to the Cooking Class?

No, pets are not allowed on this cooking class. The information provided states that pets are not permitted during the tour for safety and hygiene reasons.

Is the Cooking Class Suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans?

The cooking class doesn’t explicitly state if it caters to vegetarians or vegans. However, the menu includes dishes like tzatziki and stuffed vegetables, which could potentially be adapted to accommodate different dietary needs. It’s best to check with the organizers in advance.

What Time Does the Cooking Class Start and End?

The cooking class starts at 9:00 AM and ends at 2:00 PM, lasting a total of 5 hours. The schedule allows participants to fully enjoy the Cretan culinary experience.

Can I Purchase Additional Cretan Wines During the Class?

While the cost of the class includes 2 glasses of Cretan wine and raki, additional Cretan wines may be purchased during the experience at the participant’s own expense. Food allergies and intolerances should be noted in advance.

Is Photography Allowed During the Cooking and Dining Experiences?

Photography is allowed during the cooking and dining experiences. Guests are welcome to take photos of the food preparation, the cooking class, and the meal enjoyed with local wines and raki.

The Sum Up

This Cretan cooking experience offers an immersive culinary adventure in Heraklion. Participants can expect hands-on lessons, local wine pairing, and a traditional Greek coffee experience, all while exploring the olive oil-making process. With comfortable transportation and a small group size, this 5-hour tour promises an authentic taste of Crete’s rich gastronomic heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: