Discover the Art of Vietnamese Cuisine
Before visiting Vietnam, I had a long list of experiences to pursue in Hanoi. At the top of that list was enrolling in a Vietnamese cooking class. I’ve been passionate about Vietnamese food for as long as I can remember, especially after realizing how distinct it is from Thai cuisine, which I also adore. I believed that immersing myself in the local culinary culture was essential during my travels.
The Journey Begins
After conducting a quick search for “cooking class Hanoi Vietnam,” I stumbled upon a home cooking class that garnered positive reviews. Full disclosure, I contacted them to request if they would be open to offering my partner and me a complimentary class in exchange for an honest review. They kindly obliged, and we set off for what felt like a rock star experience—riding in an air-conditioned van towards our free Vietnamese cooking class.
Unsurprisingly, writing this piece wasn’t part of our agreement, so I can transparently share my true feelings. Spoiler alert: I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of the cooking class, the tantalizing five-course meal we prepared, and the introspective moments I experienced throughout the day. I can genuinely say that participating in this Vietnamese cooking class had a profound impact on the trajectory of my life.
The Pick-Up
Our guide, Ha, provided us with insightful commentary during our drive to the cooking class. She showcased numerous fascinating landmarks, like the Long Bien Bridge, famously designed by the architects of the Eiffel Tower. Furthermore, she introduced us to the Hanoi Ceramic Road—a stunning 4 km wall celebrating Hanoi’s Millennial Anniversary.
After picking up two enthusiastic Australians from our group, we arrived at the headquarters, which is a beautiful riverside setting. We dove into a Vietnamese language lesson where we learned essential greetings and numbers, skills that would prove invaluable while shopping and haggling.
Exploring the Local Markets
The bustling market was filled with a myriad of authentic delights. We observed a range of products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to more exotic options like pig’s tongue and live chickens. Our first challenge was to procure pork. After our guide briefed the butcher, I was chosen to negotiate the price, even with my limited Vietnamese! I managed to successfully bargain the price down, which set a fun tone for our market experience.
Time to Cook!
After a brief bike ride back to the cooking venue, it was finally time to get our hands dirty! Our first dish was the beloved Spring Rolls, filled with finely chopped vegetables and minced pork. We even learned a nifty trick for separating egg yolks using an empty water bottle. The kitchen design was another highlight; with open doors and windows, a pleasant breeze flowed through, making it comfortable despite the warm climate.
Throughout the cooking process, our guide struck a perfect balance between offering assistance and allowing us the freedom to experiment with our cooking techniques. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned chef, this cooking class is well-suited for all levels. The camaraderie and just the right amount of guidance created an encouraging atmosphere for everyone involved.
Presentation is Key
After preparing our dishes, we faced the next challenge—presentation. Our creative attempts were filled with laughter, as we attempted to craft garnishes, showcasing carrot flowers and tomato roses.
The Grand Meal
Finally, we had the pleasure of enjoying the fantastic dishes we made, each more delightful than the last. The standout – Spring Rolls, followed closely by a Green Mango and Squid Salad, Grilled Fish with Galangal, and a Caramelized Pork that was nothing short of exquisite.
Wrap Up: Vietnamese Cooking Class with iBestTravel
This cooking class makes it easy for anyone with dietary preferences by accommodating various tastes and needs. It truly was a highlight of our time in Vietnam and one of our favorite experiences throughout our travels in Southeast Asia. I cannot recommend this Vietnamese cooking class enough for those seeking to dive deeper into the culinary wonders of Vietnam.
Final Thoughts
For anyone traveling to Hanoi, taking a cooking class in Vietnam is a must-do experience. It provides not only culinary skills but also a deeper understanding of the culture. Whether you’re a foodie or simply seeking to learn something new, this class is the perfect addition to your itinerary.
