Thanks to colonialism and strong immigration to the west, Thai cuisine has become a staple in many western cities. So it’s understandable that one of the top experiences that western tourist visiting Thailand request is a cooking class. Thai cuisine is relatively straight forward and easy to make. Making it perfect for large groups of tourist to partake in.
Indigo Pearl, near Phuket, not only provides these class but has taken them to a new level. With a dedicated kitchen, expert staff, and affordable classes, Indigo Pearl has set themselves apart from any other course in their area. Even if you aren’t staying at their property, I highly recommend you try this course. Indigo Pearl has discovered the perfect recipe for an amazing cooking class experience. Here’s their step by step system.
Step 1. Have World Class Facilities
True to their reputation, Indigo Pearl has created an exclusive kitchen specifically for their cooking classes. Moos Kitchen, not only has state of the art equipment but is huge. It’s also surrounded by glass allowing other guests to observe the atmosphere inside. Set near the main lobby, Moo’s Kitchen is conveniently located for guest and those not staying at Indigo Pearl to enjoy.
Step 2. Have an Expert and Personable Chef
Chef Ann was just fantastic. Her energy and passion made the class breeze by. Too often I’ve found courses with instructors that seemed to be going through the motions. Ann seemed to be adjusting to her students. Giving extra time and instruction where needed. Stepping back and observing at other times. Her sense of humor instantly won me over. Truly a spark of energy.
She’s also a local. This is important because she’s not just Thai. She’s a woman that grew up in the area, eating the food, understanding the region. She participates in the amazing Vegetarian festival, which shows her love for and commitment to Thai culinary culture.
Step 3. Cook A Variety of Dishes
When it’s all said and done, it comes down to the food. Indigo Pearl knew that the menu had to be simple to cook and delicious. So they picked a variety of Thai staples and dishes easily modified to fit western palettes. I watched in horror as one of Chef Anns helpers ate possibly the spiciest Som Tam I had ever seen prepared without flinching.
Participants are informed of every ingredient, and in terms of chili their strength, to ensure no allergy issues arise. They are then allowed to modify the dish as they see fit while sticking to a few core principles of each dish. Our menu was quite diverse I must say.
Som Tam: Also known as Green Papaya Salad. My favorite dish and in my opinion, one of the spiciest dishes in Thailand. Nothing is cooked so everything maintains it’s natural acidity and spice level. The go-to dish for most vegetarians.
Gaeng Phed Gai: Red Curry and Chicken. Thai curry is a bit more savory than you would expect when compared to Indian or Malay curries. Chef Ann graciously ensured everyone made them just spicy enough to get the point across but not burn anyone’s taste buds. Plenty of Coconut milk.
Kluay Tod: Thai friend banana. Pretty straight forward here. Battered mini bananas fried. Some covered in sugar and cinnamon.
Pad Thai: The International staple of Thai cuisine. Fried noodles, egg, tofu, and a protein. Or not. Chef Ann used shrimp. And even demonstrated how to make an omelet shell for the Pad Thai.
Step 4. Be Affordable
Indigo Pearl offers two cooking programs. Program 1 includes an 8 am trip to the fresh food market. Here, you’ll purchase all of the ingredients needed for your class as well as meet locals. This takes about two hours. Program 2 is just the cooking class. Program 1 cost 3530baht (91euro) and Program 2 cost 2120. They also have a 40% discount for ages 12-16.
Book your experience here: Indigo Pearl Moo’s Kitchen Thai Cooking Class
Have you ever taken a cooking class? What’s your favorite cooking experience?