In Reply to: Cooking classes posted by Nish on Sunday, 18. March 2012 at 19:21 Bali Time:
Just did a half day at this cooking school in a family compound 10 mins drive from Ubud. I've done 2 previously in Ubud. This is by far the best experience so far. Collected @ 8am from your hotel, and delivered back @ 1.30pm. First, a trip to a local market , at Payagan for memory. Like Ubud market, but more in the open, and a genuinely authentic experience. Only 2 Aussie women and we were very noticeable to all of the traders there. Very friendly.
The classes are held in a family compound, and were preceded by a great introductory chat to Balinese home life. Sang De was the young man who collected us and introduced us to the chef. Both had great English, and the sessions themselves were equally terrific. Only 6 participants allowed at each class. Very hands-on. Not just observation at all. They showed us how coconut oil is made at home, step by step.. In the actual class about 6 courses are made, which are then consumed for lunch. Cooking is done, both in the family kitchen, and in a covered comfortable outdoor kitchen area. Food handling excellent. The teacher is a professional cook, an familiar with classic French technique.
Just prior to lunch, we all visited the family temple, dressed in provided sarongs and watched the female head of the house do the offering ritual. At $AUD35, which includes pickup, drop off, class, lunch, a little cookbook, and a gift of coconut oil (fine @ custom) it's really affordable. Really loved it. Best thing I did in Bali last week. Highly recommended.