Maria met us at the market and showed us things we never would have seen or understood. While we were buying produce, she would often say “we’ll pick that in my yard!” , and we did! We got back to Maria’s home and toured her extensive garden, the came in and got to work. We made a soup (Caldo Verde), a dish whose name I don’t remember, and a dessert (tarta de natas). Since this cooking class was just my husband and me, we definitely got personal treatment. The food was delicious and Maria was very knowledgeable and friendly. I would absolutely recommend this class to anyone I know who travels to São Miguel. Thank you, Maria!
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Market Tour
Join Maria for a delightful open-air picnic at the breathtaking Sete Cidades lake viewpoint and garden. Surrounded by lush nature, you'll take in stunning views of the lake from the mountainside, nestled among vibrant trees, flowers, and botanical gardens. Sete Cidades lake is a 45-min drive from downtown Ponta Delgada. <br><br>Enjoy a short, scenic hike as you explore the beauty of the volcanic landscape and dramatic coastline, before settling at a peaceful picnic table to begin your experience. Picnicking is a beloved tradition in Azorean culture, and Maria is excited to share this local custom with you. <br><br>Your picnic will feature a delicious spread of fresh, locally sourced ingredients - chorizo balls, assorted salads with local cheese and jams, sandwiches, pork pâté, and traditional Azorean desserts such as milk and bean pudding, along with seasonal fresh fruit. Vegan and gluten-free picnic options are also available upon request.
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Travel inland from the port in Ponta Delgada and discover the culture through food, in this Azorean cooking class in a local home, in Fenais da Luz. We recommend all cruise travelers this Ponta Delgada Excursion, for a true and authentic taste of local cuisine. Maria is excited to share her culture through food in this authentic Azorean cooking class in Ponta Delgade. After a welcome drink, snack and tour of Maria’s garden and home, start your cooking class. Your experience can either be hands on or a demonstration, so please note which you would prefer when making your booking. During your cooking class learn how to make a traditional Azorean meal featuring seasonal ingredients. You will learn how to make a soup such as a traditional fish soup, followed by two main dishes of a fish and meat dish. Then end your experience learning to make a dessert like rice pudding or passion fruit mousse (featuring passion fruit from Maria’s garden when in season!). <br><br>Maria’s recipes have been passed down through her mom and grandmother and Maria is passionate about showcasing her family and island’s culinary history with guests. After cooking, sit down together to enjoy your traditional Azorean family-style meal, which will be served either at the grape-vine covered terrace, in summer months, or at Maria’s dining table in colder months. End your meal with a selection of coffee, tea and homemade liqueurs or wine. If there is a specific dish you want to learn to make, like octopus, please note this during your booking. Maria will be happy to accommodate your requests!
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