Cooking class and dinner with Rekha family with full meals

A Genuine Taste of India: Cooking with Rekha’s Family in Udaipur

Our review of the Cooking class and dinner with Rekha’s family offers an authentic peek into Indian home life through the lens of food. For just $14.40 per person, you get a personalized, hands-on experience that combines learning traditional vegetarian recipes with the warmth of a local family. This tour has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from 67 glowing reviews, and with an average booking time of 26 days in advance, it’s clear that many travelers find this a worthwhile cultural highlight.

What makes this experience truly special is the opportunity to see how ordinary Indians live and eat in their own homes. You’re not just cooking in a touristy studio, but in Rekha’s cozy residence in Udaipur’s Old City. Plus, this experience is fully customizable — whether you prefer lunch or dinner, Rekha and her family are happy to adapt. The only note? You’ll want to come hungry, as you’ll be eating what you prepare, meaning it’s best not to overindulge beforehand.

A slight consideration is that pickup and drop-off from your hotel aren’t included, so logistics require a bit of planning. Still, for those eager for an authentic, intimate culinary experience that offers genuine insight into Indian traditions, this class suits food lovers, vegetarians, and curious travelers alike.

Key Points

• Authentic Home Cooking: Learn directly from Rekha, a seasoned home cook, in her family’s residence.
• Vegetarian Focus: All recipes are meat-free, perfect for vegetarians or those preferring light, fresh fare.
• Cultural Insight: See how locals live and interact in their personal space, beyond the usual tourist spots.
• Full Meal Included: Enjoy a full meal of your own making, with recipes such as curry, pulao, chapati, and more.
• Flexible Scheduling: Choose between a lunch or dinner session, scheduled around your day.
• Affordable Value: At just over $14, this experience offers a rich, personalized culinary journey.

Inside the Cooking Class: What You Can Expect

The experience kicks off at the appointed time, usually 4:00 pm, with a friendly meet-up at the meeting point in Udaipur’s Old City. From there, a guide will escort you to Rekha’s home, where the real fun begins.

Rekha’s family greets you warmly, and the group size is kept intimate — a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring you get plenty of attention. The class lasts about three hours, giving ample time to master several Indian vegetarian dishes, including classic recipes like Masala Chai, Potato and Onion Pakora, Coriander or Mango Chutney, Seasonal Tomato Curry, Vegetable Pulao, Chapati, and Paratha.

The Cooking Experience

You’ll start by receiving a private, hands-on lesson tailored to your skill level and preferences. Rekha’s teaching style is relaxed but informative; she’s clearly an expert with a deep knowledge of traditional Indian cooking, as confirmed by reviews praising her experience and hospitality. She explains each step in detail, providing you with recipes to take home.

A highlight for many is the chance to visit the family cows and see the home environment, adding a genuine rural flavor to the experience. Laxman, a helpful guide, takes photos and videos throughout, so you won’t miss a thing — a thoughtful touch appreciated by many travelers, especially those who want to share their culinary adventure later.

The Meal

Once the dishes are prepared, you sit down at the family’s dining table to share the meal you’ve cooked. The food is all vegetarian, fresh, and flavorful, with reviewers mentioning the deliciousness of the dishes and the authenticity that’s hard to find in restaurants. Since you eat what you cook, the meal feels rewarding and satisfying.

Additional Perks and Tips

• Water bottles are provided, but alcoholic beverages are not included.
• The experience is fully customizable, welcoming suggestions for your preferred dishes or dietary needs.
• While transfers aren’t included, the meeting point is straightforward to reach in the Old City, and many travelers find this manageable.

Why Travelers Rave About It

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeability of Rekha and her family, with comments like “Rekha was an amazing host” and “Her experience and knowledge with cooking is exceptional.” Guests also note that the class is “both gezellig and educational,” with a relaxed atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home.

One reviewer highlighted the photo and video documentation, which allowed them to focus on their cooking without worrying about missing details. Another shared that the experience was “an unforgettable way to learn about Indian culture,” further illustrating how this isn’t just about food — it’s about connection and insight.

An Experience That Offers More Than Just Cooking

What stands out here is the blend of learning, cultural exchange, and authentic hospitality. You’re not just following a recipe but understanding the importance of ingredients like fresh spices, homemade chutneys, and traditional cooking methods. The relaxed, family-run setting allows you to see a side of India that’s often hidden behind bustling streets and tourist attractions.

Plus, the cost-effectiveness of around $14 makes this a compelling choice for travelers wanting a meaningful, hands-on activity without breaking the bank. The full meal, recipes, and personal interaction provide excellent value.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal for vegetarians or those open to vegetarian cuisine, as all dishes are meat-free. It’s perfect for food lovers eager to learn authentic Indian recipes directly from a host who genuinely loves sharing her traditions.

Travelers who enjoy cultural exchanges and want an insight into everyday Indian life will find this particularly enriching. It’s also suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed, personal experience with a local family.

Those with limited time in Udaipur will appreciate that this is a manageable, engaging activity that can be completed in roughly three hours. Finally, if you’re seeking a value-packed, immersive food experience that offers more than just a meal — this class is a winner.

Summary

Rekha’s cooking class in her home offers a rare window into Indian culinary traditions, served with warmth and genuine hospitality. The full meal, recipes, and cultural insights make it a well-rounded, authentic experience that many travelers cherish. While transportation isn’t included, the class’s affordability, intimate setting, and personal touch make it a top pick for food-loving adventurers.

If you’re eager to learn to cook vegetarian Indian food, connect with a local family, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal, this class ticks all the boxes. It’s an immersive, heartfelt way to spend a few hours in Udaipur that leaves you with new skills and memories to savor long after your trip ends.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, transfers from your hotel are not included. The meeting point is in Udaipur’s Old City, which is easy to reach on your own.

Can I choose between lunch and dinner?
Yes, you can select a preferred time — either lunch or dinner — depending on availability.

What kind of food will I cook?
You’ll learn vegetarian recipes such as Masala Chai, potato and onion pakora, chutneys, curry, pulao, chapati, and paratha.

Is the experience suitable for kids?
While not explicitly mentioned, the class’s relaxed and family-oriented setting could be enjoyable for children, especially if they like cooking.

How long does the class last?
Approximately 3 hours, giving plenty of time to learn, cook, and eat.

What’s included in the price?
Shared cooking lessons, the full meal, and a bottle of water for each participant.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Rekha is happy to customize, so it’s worth mentioning any dietary preferences or restrictions in advance.

Do I need prior cooking experience?
No, the class is suitable for all skill levels — from beginners to those more experienced.

Is alcohol available?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included or provided.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 15, ensuring a personal and engaging experience.

In sum, this Udaipur cooking class with Rekha’s family offers a genuine taste of Indian life and cuisine. Budget-friendly, intimate, and educational, it’s a perfect way to deepen your understanding of local culture while enjoying a delicious vegetarian meal.