Embark on an unforgettable culinary journey with Lucy and her family in the heart of a traditional Mayan community near Coba, Mexico. After being picked up from your Tulum hotel, you'll travel for an hour to this ancient Maya city, where you'll gain a genuine glimpse into rural life. Lucy, a master of Mayan smoke cooking, will guide you through the art of the 'pibil' technique, sharing the secrets behind its unique flavors. Participate in a hands-on cooking experience, preparing traditional Mayan dishes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. As you cook, you'll learn about the cultural significance of each dish and connect with Lucy’s family, hearing their stories and experiencing their warm hospitality.
After cooking, sit down to share the delicious Mayan meal you've helped prepare. A few dishes you may enjoy include chayitas with sikil pak salsa (a traditional dish made with corn dough mixed with chopped chaya leaves, folded and fried until golden and crispy, served with a flavorful dip), pollo pibil (chicken smothered in achiote paste, orange juice, and spices) or brazo de reina tamales (a traditional dish dating back to prehistoric times, made with corn, chaya leaves, hard-boiled eggs, ground pumpkin seeds, and topped with a spicy tomato sauce, cooked in banana leaves), and habanero salsa with handmade corn tortillas, served with hibiscus flower cold tea, local beers, and seasonal fruit.
This immersive cooking class offers a rare opportunity to step off the beaten path, discover the true essence of Mayan culture, and leave with a deeper appreciation for its culinary traditions. A true taste of Yucatán's rich culinary heritage!
Hotel pickup and drop-off from Tulum are included in the cost of the experience. Please add your hotel details when booking online.
This is just a sample menu to give you an idea of the types of dishes the host cooks. Your menu will vary according to seasonal availability.
Appetizer: Chayitas with Sikal Pak SalsaMain Course: Pollo Pibil or Brazo de Reina Tamal or Rice & Beans and Habanero Salsa with Handmade Corn TortillasDrinks: Hibiscus Flower Cold Tea & 2 Beers Per Person Dessert: Local FruitJoin Lucy, a Mayan culinary expert, and Josué, an experienced English-speaking guide, for an unforgettable cooking experience in the jungle of Quintana Roo. Together, they offer a unique culinary journey, blending traditional Mayan cooking techniques with insights into the region's rich cultural history.
Lucy, known for her mastery of 'pibil' (a traditional slow-cooking method), has spent over a decade sharing her passion for Mayan cuisine with guests from around the world. Her family embodies the spirit of Quintana Roo hospitality, creating a warm, immersive experience where you'll learn authentic Mayan recipes using local ingredients passed down through generations.
Josué, a certified tour guide with nine years of experience in the Riviera Maya, will share the stories behind each dish, helping you connect deeply with Mexican culture through its food. This class goes beyond cooking, it’s an exploration of Mayan traditions, flavors, and family.
