A Rooftop Culinary Adventure

As a nomadic surfer, I’ve spent countless days chasing waves and soaking up the sun in Central America. But every now and then, I like to swap my surfboard for a different kind of adventure. This time, it was the Guatemalan Cooking Class in Antigua, Guatemala. The day started with a gentle breeze and the promise of a new experience. Our group of eleven was whisked away from our hotel to the bustling local market, where the vibrant colors and aromas of fresh produce greeted us. Joaquin, our host, guided us through the maze of stalls, sharing stories of Guatemalan culture and helping us select the freshest ingredients for our culinary journey.

The market was a sensory overload, with the chatter of vendors, the scent of ripe fruits, and the sight of exotic spices. I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the ocean’s rhythm, each stall offering its own unique wave of flavors. We picked out everything from juicy tomatoes to fragrant herbs, and even a few local fruits that were new to me. With our baskets full, we headed to the rooftop of Cuscun, where the real magic was about to happen.

Cooking with a View

The rooftop of Cuscun offered a breathtaking view of Antigua and the surrounding mountains. It was the perfect backdrop for our cooking class, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of peace, much like the calm before catching the perfect wave. Our chef, with the help of a translator, assigned us roles in the kitchen. I found myself in charge of preparing the Mis en place, a task that required precision and focus, much like analyzing wave conditions before a surf session.

As we chopped, blended, and fried, the air was filled with the sounds of laughter and local music. The highlight for me was learning to make tortillas from scratch on a hot stove. It was a skill that required patience and practice, much like mastering a new surfing technique. The camaraderie among our group was palpable, and it reminded me of the tight-knit community of surfers I’ve encountered on my travels.

The dishes we created were nothing short of spectacular. From the yummiest tostadas to rich Guatemalan stews, each bite was a testament to the flavors of the region. And for dessert, we indulged in fried chocolate bananas, a sweet ending to a savory adventure.

A Taste of Guatemalan Hospitality

What truly set this experience apart was the warmth and hospitality of the Cuscun family. They welcomed us into their home and shared not just their culinary expertise, but also their culture and traditions. One of our group members even learned the art of back strap weaving, a skill passed down through generations.

As the sun set over Antigua, I reflected on the day’s adventure. It was a reminder that while the ocean will always be my first love, there’s a world of experiences waiting to be discovered on land. The Guatemalan Cooking Class was more than just a lesson in cooking; it was a celebration of community, culture, and the simple joy of sharing a meal with new friends.

For those of you who follow my journey, I highly recommend taking a break from the waves to explore the culinary delights of Guatemala. It’s an experience that will leave you with a full heart and a satisfied palate, much like the perfect surf session.