Overview
From Garden to Plate: Your Hands-On Culinary Experience
Get ready to connect with the very essence of Flores’ cuisine in this unforgettable Village Cooking Class.
Jungle Garden Exploration
Join our chef for an immersive stroll through a lush, vibrant jungle garden. This isn’t just a walk; it’s a sensory exploration where you’ll gain fascinating insights into the indigenous leaves, fragrant aromatic spices, and fresh, colorful vegetables that will soon transform into the delectable meal you’ll be creating with your own hands. Learn about the sustainable practices used to cultivate these ingredients and appreciate the bounty of nature that fuels Manggaraian cuisine.
Mastering Manggaraian Flavors
Under the expert, patient guidance of our chef, you’ll uncover the secrets of traditional Manggaraian village cooking. You’ll learn step-by-step how to prepare a truly mouthwatering Fish Meal or a thoughtfully crafted Vegan Meal, bursting with the flavors of Flores, using techniques passed down through generations. From grinding spices by hand to mastering traditional cooking methods, you’ll actively participate in every step of the culinary process, gaining practical skills and a deeper appreciation for the local culinary heritage. This hands-on Village Cooking Class is more than just a meal it’s an immersion in tradition.
Savor the Fruits of Your Labor
The best part? You’ll get to savor and enjoy the delicious, authentic meal you’ve prepared – a true taste of Flores, made by you! This shared meal is a moment to reflect on your culinary achievements and enjoy the fruits of your labor in a beautiful, traditional setting. Your Village Cooking Class ends with memories of flavor, culture, and connection.
Deepening Your Cultural Connection
Beyond the kitchen, discover the rhythm of village life.
Village Immersion
Morning Class: If you join our engaging morning class, after enjoying your prepared lunch, you’ll delve deeper into the fabric of village life with a leisurely, guided walk. Discover firsthand what local Village are passionately creating or growing – from the sweet essence of palm sugar and fragrant vanilla to robust coffee, aromatic cloves, and versatile candlenut. You might even witness the intricate art of songket weaving, with its vibrant patterns, or learn about sopi, a distinctive local form of arak. This is a unique opportunity to interact with the community, learn about their daily lives, and perhaps even purchase unique, handmade local goods directly from the villagers (a friendly tip: bring some extra rupiah if you wish!).
Afternoon Class: For those joining the afternoon class, we’ll enjoy this captivating village walk before your delightful prepared lunch, setting the perfect context for your culinary journey. This allows you to experience the village’s vibrant atmosphere before diving into the culinary traditions that are so central to its culture. Whether you choose morning or afternoon, this Village Cooking Class promises an enriching and authentic Flores experience.
Tour End Times:
Morning Class: Your culinary and cultural journey will conclude around 2:00 PM.
Afternoon Class: Your experience will wrap up around 6:00 PM.
If you opt for our transportation service, a comfortable car will then be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Labuan Bajo, typically a 30-minute journey, leaving you with newfound culinary skills and truly cherished memories of your Village Cooking Class.
Highlights
- Sip a unique welcome tea: Enjoy a refreshing, locally sourced herbal tea upon arrival, a true taste of the property's natural bounty and a warm introduction to Manggaraian hospitality.
- Immersive farm-to-table experience: Discover the journey of ingredients from the lush jungle garden to your plate, guided by a local chef, gaining an understanding of sustainable local agriculture.
- Hands-on culinary mastery: Learn authentic Flores village cooking techniques and prepare a delicious traditional meal from scratch, gaining practical skills and cultural insights.
- Deep cultural connection: As part of your Village Cooking Class experience, engage directly with local villagers, observing traditional crafts like songket weaving and learning about their sustainable way of life and distinctive local products.
- Taste the true Flores: Savor the flavors of your own creation and experience the vibrant local produce like palm sugar, fragrant vanilla, and unique local beverages like sopi, all part of an authentic Manggaraian feast.
