The Secrets of Balinese Organic Cooking - Afternoon Course

The village of Laplapan is outside of Ubud on the island of Bali, Indonesia. As the home of both the Indonesian royal family, and a recognized cultural and creative hub, it's appropriate that this course takes place in the Ubud District. During your time in Bali, there will be much to explore in Ubud. Visit the Ubud Palace in the city center. Visit countless museums; the Don Antonio Blanco Museum features an unfinished painting by the namesake artist. Purchase beautiful baubles from jewelry stores and support local artisans at the Ubud Art Market. Value your quiet time? Pick up a different kind of bestseller at Ganesha Bookshop, which specializes in Indonesian media.

Bottom line? You should feel free to sample everything during your cooking class, because you will have ample opportunity to 'walk it off' throughout the course of your trip.

Given that your cooking class features organic cuisine, it should be no surprise that you'll be working with the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. You can expect to work with coconut milk, seafood, banana leaves, rice, and spices. Specific dishes on the menu include:

• Balinese Soup - A coconut milk based soup that is equally delicious when made vegetarian or with the addition of meat.

• Sate Languan - A grilled fish dish made with brown sugar, spices, and green coconut.

• Sate Lembat - A crushed meat satay featuring spices and grated coconut.

As you prepare your supper, you will not only learn traditional dishes but Balinese traditions in general. For example, the simple kitchens in Bali often consisit of a woodburning stove and a gas range — each of these is graced with humble offering of flowers, rice grains, and salt to Bhrama, god of fire. Steaming is a common cooking method, while a mortar and pestle and utensils crafted from bamboo and coconut shells are staples in almost every home.

Though classes are conducted in English, why not learn a few words in the local language? In addition to 'please' and 'thank you,' you can also learn 'cheers' and 'delicious!' Feed your body, your mind, and even your spirit when you join a Balinese family in their home and learn their customs, traditions, and recipes. Make your Balinese getaway one of your best trips yet when you let Anywhere help you plan a personalized itinerary complete with accommodations, transportation, and (of course) tours.