This past November 2017, I travelled to Thailand for the first time and stayed in Phuket. Our hotel was in old town Phuket and without much planning I passed by Blue Elephant Cooking school which the aromas made me venture in and boy was ever glad I did. Venturing into the class my taste buds were on high alert, ready for an immersive experience that goes beyond the ordinary. The Blue Elephant Cooking Class and Market Tour promised not just a cooking lesson but a cultural feast. We started the class with a tour of the market and I learned about so many different fruits, spices and ingredients that I had never seen before.
The Market Exploration:
A Vibrant Prelude:
My adventure commenced with a lively visit to the local market. Amidst the hustle and bustle, I discovered a kaleidoscope of colors, aromas, and smiling faces. The guide’s insights into Thai ingredients added a layer of cultural richness, making the market tour an essential precursor to the cooking class.
The Blue Elephant Cooking Class Experience:
A Kitchen Tale:
Stepping into the Blue Elephant Cooking School was like entering a culinary haven. The well-equipped kitchen awaited, with each participant having their own cooking station. This was by far the most amazing cooking class experience I had ever been apart of. Before beginning we shared the apple pear we picked up from the market and mango sticky rice (: what a nice sweet treat!
Crafting Culinary Magic:
Under the guidance of a passionate chef we embarked on a journey through the flavors of Thailand.
We started off by preparing the ginger, spices and galangal, garlic and herbs into the mortar and pestle forming the curry paste. The ingredients were so fresh and fragrant then we prepared the soup, a papaya salad and even made a sizzling stir-fry. This hands-on experience allowed me to immerse myself in the art of Thai cooking. The emphasis on authenticity was evident in every step, from traditional recipes to the use of genuine Thai ingredients.
The Taste of Success:
A Culinary Affair:
As we cooked, the air filled with mouthwatering aromas, and tasting our creations along the way was a delightful bonus. When we finished making the meal, we sat down in the restaurant which was all set up for us to enjoy. The meal was more than a feast and my belly was very happy – it was a celebration of newfound culinary skills, shared laughter, and the camaraderie of fellow food enthusiasts from around the world that we shared conversation and fun.
Conclusion:
My day with the Blue Elephant Cooking School and Market Tour wasn’t just about learning to cook; it was a sensory journey through Thai culture. From the lively market to the authentic cooking experience, every moment was a revelation. Whether you’re a culinary novice or a seasoned home chef, this adventure offers a unique and immersive way to connect with the heart and soul of Thai cuisine. For an unforgettable taste of Phuket, don’t miss the opportunity to spice up your vacation with the Blue Elephant Cooking Class. It’s a recipe for memories that will linger long after you’ve left the vibrant streets of Thailand! I highly recommend this cooking school if you are visiting Phuket, Thailand. Check out their website because they have multiple Blue Elephant restaurants around the world and also a cooking school in Bangkok Thailand.
