The Swahili Cooking Class is an immersive culinary journey that introduces you to the rich and diverse flavors of Zanzibar’s traditional cuisine. Set in a charming, local kitchen or open-air setting, the class begins with a vibrant market tour where you’ll select fresh ingredients, including exotic spices, aromatic herbs, and locally grown vegetables. Your knowledgeable instructor will guide you through the selection process, explaining the significance of each ingredient and how they contribute to the distinctive taste of Swahili dishes.
Once back in the kitchen, you’ll learn to prepare a variety of traditional Swahili dishes, such as spicy pilau rice, flavorful seafood curries, and delectable mandazi (sweet pastries). The hands-on class allows you to master essential cooking techniques, from sautéing and simmering to blending spices and garnishing. As you cook, your instructor will share fascinating stories about the history and cultural significance of each dish, offering insights into how Swahili cuisine reflects Zanzibar’s diverse cultural influences and culinary traditions.
The experience culminates in a delightful meal where you can savor the dishes you’ve prepared, enjoying the fruits of your labor in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This cooking class not only provides you with practical skills and recipes to recreate Swahili cuisine at home but also offers a deeper understanding of Zanzibar’s culinary heritage. By the end of the class, you’ll have a new appreciation for the island’s flavors and traditions, along with a collection of recipes that will allow you to share the taste of Zanzibar with friends and family back home.
ACTIVITIES
- Visit to a Local Market
- Journey to a Local Village
- Introduction to Swahili Cuisine
- Hands-on Cooking Session
- It’s time to get your hands dirty! With guidance from your chef, you’ll begin preparing your local dishes.
- Eating time.
- Cultural Exchange
- After the meal, engage in a cultural exchange. You may have the chance to interact with village members, try your hand at a local craft, or take part in a short dance or music performance.
- Return to your Hotel.