My wife and I have experienced cooking classes in various countries, but not all are created equal. In Morocco, it was more of a demonstration. During our class in Vietnam, we cooked Banh Xeo but didn’t shop or prep. In Greece, group members took turns making different dishes. We prepped but didn’t shop, and not everyone cooked each item. Panama Day Trips’ 4-Hour Guided Cooking Class stood out as the most comprehensive cooking class we’ve attended.
Communications with Panama Day Trips
After booking the tour, I couldn’t locate the address on Google Maps. A quick email to the tour operator solved that problem with a link. Communication was top-notch, with reminder emails sent before the tour, making it easy to find the centrally located restaurant in Casco Viejo, right on the main square. The map below will help you orient the location in Casco Viejo:
Arriving For Our Tour
Arriving early gave us a chance to chat with the owner, Jerin. We learned about his fascinating background and received tips for other tours. As our group of eight assembled, Jerin introduced us to our Chef/Guide, Jorge. Jorge shared his culinary journey and passion for food. With a quick overview, we set off to the market, umbrellas in hand just in case of rain. Fortunately, the weather cooperated.
Visiting Markets to Purchase Fresh Ingredients
Our first stop was the meat market, impressively spotless. We’ve seen many meat markets, but none as clean. Each type of meat had its own section. The restaurant uses only free-range chicken, so we didn’t make any purchases there. Next, we ventured into the vegetable market, where we selected fresh produce from a vendor. Jorge shared insights into the market’s history and local culinary traditions.
We then enjoyed fresh, delicious chicha (juice) from a stall before heading to the fish market. Though not as pristine as the meat market, it was relatively clean and lacked the overwhelming fishy smell. Jorge picked a whole fish, ensuring its freshness and type, before having it filleted. With all our ingredients gathered, we returned to the restaurant.
Preparing Our Meals
The cooking class was incredibly hands-on. While Jorge took charge of most cooking, we all actively participated in prepping ingredients. Refreshments were provided, with my wife savoring a delightful passion fruit sangria and me trying different options. Our menu included ceviche, with a cassava alternative for those who don’t eat seafood, chicken carimanola, chicken tamal, and platano en tentacion. The tamal was notably larger than the Mexican version I was familiar with, and the platano en tentacion, a blend of plantain, rum (optional), passion fruit juice, and sugar, was cooked to a perfect sauce.
My Impressions
Cooking with Jorge and Jerin was as educational as it was enjoyable. We learned a lot about Panamanian culture and bonded with our fellow travelers, all sharing a love for adventure. After an afternoon of cooking and conversation, we relished our meal. The food was exceptional, the atmosphere was welcoming, and the experience was memorable. Jerin offered to assist with any unrelated questions, showing genuine hospitality.
Overall, this was the most thorough cooking class we’ve experienced in our travels. Jerin and Jorge were exceptional hosts, providing an unforgettable experience. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Panama!
If you are a foodie, like I am, join Eric for a Chocolate Making Class at Nome Chocolatier one block away.
Overview of our three-day trip to Panama!