A Culinary Adventure Begins

As a travel writer and a mom, I’m always on the lookout for unique experiences that can be both educational and fun for the whole family. So, when I heard about the Caribbean Cooking Class in Cartagena, I knew I had to give it a try. After all, what better way to immerse myself in the local culture than by learning to cook its traditional dishes?

The day started with a prompt pick-up from my hotel, which is always a relief when traveling with kids. We were whisked away to a stunning, ultra-modern apartment overlooking the beach. The view was breathtaking, and I could already feel the stress melting away as the ocean breeze greeted us.

Our instructor, Cindy Buelvas, was a warm and welcoming presence. Her passion for Caribbean cuisine was infectious, and I was eager to dive into the culinary adventure that awaited us. The class was informal and relaxed, making it perfect for families looking to bond over a shared love of food.

Cooking Up a Storm

The class was a delightful mix of hands-on cooking and cultural storytelling. Cindy guided us through the preparation of several Colombian versions of Caribbean dishes, including ceviche, empanadas, yucca cake, coconut rice, fried plantains, and red snapper. Each dish was a new discovery, and I loved how Cindy adapted the class to suit our skill levels.

As a mom, I appreciated the flexibility Cindy offered. My kids were able to get involved in the cooking process, which made the experience even more memorable. They loved trying their hand at making empanadas and were thrilled to see their creations come to life.

Between cooking sessions, we took breaks to enjoy the stunning beach view from the balcony. It was the perfect opportunity to chat with Cindy about the cultural nuances of Colombian cuisine and the differences between avocados in the US and Colombia. Her excellent English made the conversation easy and engaging, even for my kids.

A Taste of Cartagena

The highlight of the class was undoubtedly the tasting session. Despite having had breakfast earlier, I couldn’t resist sampling everything we had prepared. The yucca cake with vanilla ice cream was a particular favorite, and I found myself wishing I had saved more room for the delicious spread.

This cooking class was more than just a culinary lesson; it was a journey into the heart of Cartagena’s culture. It exceeded my expectations and left me with a newfound appreciation for the rich tapestry of flavors that define Caribbean cuisine.

For families looking to add a unique twist to their vacation, I highly recommend the Caribbean Cooking Class. It’s a fantastic way to bond over food, learn something new, and create lasting memories together. Plus, you’ll leave with a repertoire of new recipes to impress your friends back home!