Barcelona: Catalan Cuisine cooking course 100% vegan

Barcelona: Catalan Cuisine Cooking Course 100% Vegan — An In-Depth Review

Trying to find a way to experience Barcelona’s culinary soul without sacrificing your plant-based values? This vegan Catalan cooking experience offered by In Bloom Cooking School promises just that — a chance to learn how to make traditional dishes with entirely plant-based ingredients. From Fideuá to Escalivada, it’s a delightful way to connect with local flavors in a fun, interactive setting.

What immediately caught our eye about this class is its focus on authentic Catalan recipes made vegan. It’s rare to find a cooking experience that marries regional tradition with modern dietary preferences so seamlessly. Plus, the small group size (less than ten people) ensures plenty of personal attention and an intimate atmosphere.

Of course, as with any experience, there’s a few things to consider. The duration — around 3 to 4 hours — is perfect if you’re keen to spend a meaningful chunk of your day cooking and tasting, but it might be a bit long for those with tight schedules or shorter attention spans. Also, the price point of $90 per person offers good value considering the extensive hands-on participation and the delicious meal you’ll get to enjoy afterward.

This experience is ideal for food lovers eager to explore regional Catalan cuisine in a vegan context, especially those who enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere. It’s great for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want a meaningful, authentic culinary activity rather than a generic cooking class.

Key Points

• Authentic Catalan vegan recipes are the focus, providing a cultural and culinary connection to Barcelona.
• Small group setting offers personalized instruction and a more relaxed experience.
• Four-hour duration includes presentation, hands-on cooking, and tasting — good value for a comprehensive experience.
• Diverse menu covers everything from appetizers to desserts, showcasing regional ingredients and techniques.
• Expert guides with multiple language options enhance the learning experience.
• Tasting the dishes in a beautiful location makes the meal even more memorable.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Setting and Atmosphere

The class takes place at In Bloom Cooking School, a charming venue located behind Plaza España and near the Arenas mall. Its modern yet cozy environment feels welcoming, with a professional setup that’s perfect for hands-on learning. The intimate size of the group — less than ten participants — creates a friendly atmosphere conducive to questions and interaction.

At the start, you’re greeted with a welcome drink, setting a relaxed tone for the session. The instructor, fluent in Catalan, English, German, and Spanish, guides you through the experience with clear explanations and a warm approach that encourages participation.

The Structure and Flow

This 4-hour experience covers everything from introduction to regional ingredients to step-by-step cooking of multiple recipes. It begins with a 20-30 minute presentation that offers some context about Catalan cuisine and the vegan twist on traditional dishes.

Next, the hands-on cooking segment lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours. During this time, everyone gets to participate in preparing a variety of starters, main courses, and desserts, including:

• Starters: Sobrasada pastries (a smoked paprika vegan pâté), Coca de escalivada (bread topped with baked vegetables), braised leeks on Romesco sauce, Catalan spinach tartlets, and ocean fritters.
• Main Dishes: Seasonal cannelloni with béchamel, Fideuá with artichokes, asparagus, and alioli, and Fricandó with mushrooms (a soy-based stew). There’s also a vegan version of white beans “Butifarra” sausage.
• Dessert: Almond cream “Menjar blanc,” a creamy, nutty treat.

After cooking, you settle into a tasting session that lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing you to savor the dishes you’ve prepared. The setting’s ambiance, combined with the delicious flavors and the opportunity for lively conversations, makes the meal feel like a shared celebration of Catalan culture.

The Recipes and Their Significance

All recipes are authentic Catalan favorites, reinterpreted with plant-based ingredients. The Fideuá, often called “noodle paella,” is a regional staple, and making it vegan involves creative use of vegetables like artichokes and asparagus, paired with a flavorful alioli. The Escalivada, a classic smoky roasted vegetable dish, showcases simple ingredients that shine with proper preparation.

Dishes like Fricandó, a rich mushroom stew, are traditionally made with meat but here use soy or plant-based alternatives to mimic the texture and flavors. The inclusion of vegan “Butifarra” (Catalan sausage) and a nutty almond cream dessert further highlight the chef’s skill in recreating regional flavors without animal products.

The Food and Tasting Experience

Guests often comment on the high quality and authenticity of the dishes. One reviewer mentioned, “Nice location and the cook was great,” emphasizing the approachable yet professional instruction. Others appreciated the cultural insights gained through the recipes, as well as the fun of cooking together in a relaxed environment.

The dishes are served in a scenic space, turning the last part of the experience into a social event. Sharing these thoughtfully prepared vegan versions of Catalan classics offers a satisfying, memorable meal that’s both flavorful and nourishing.

The Value and Practicalities

For $90, you receive not only the cooking class but a full meal, an informative presentation, and the chance to learn regional recipes you can recreate at home. Given the attention to detail, the quality of ingredients, and expert guidance, this represents good value — especially considering the small-group format and the authentic experience.

The class is wheelchair accessible, and the provider offers flexibility with cancelations (up to 24 hours in advance) and reservation options that allow you to reserve now and pay later. Be sure to bring a Tupperware if you want to take leftovers home — a practical tip appreciated by many.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This cooking course is perfect for vegans and vegetarians wanting to explore Catalan cuisine without animal ingredients. Food lovers who enjoy hands-on activities will find it especially rewarding, as they get to actively participate in every step.

It’s also well-suited for those interested in culture, as recipes are explained within their regional context. Couples, solo travelers, or small groups will appreciate the intimate setting and the chance to meet like-minded foodies.

While children under 10 might find the session too lengthy, older kids who enjoy cooking could enjoy the experience with some guidance.

The Sum Up

This vegan Catalan cooking class offers a well-rounded, immersive experience that combines authentic recipes with a lively, friendly atmosphere. You’ll learn how regional dishes are transformed into plant-based marvels, all while enjoying a beautiful space and engaging conversation. The small size and knowledgeable guides ensure you’ll leave feeling inspired and equipped to recreate these dishes at home.

If you’re passionate about food, culture, and sustainability, this class is a fantastic way to deepen your connection with Barcelona’s culinary identity. It’s ideal for those who want more than just sightseeing — a hands-on, delicious, and culturally rich activity that makes your trip truly memorable.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for vegans?
Yes, the entire class focuses on 100% plant-based ingredients and vegan recipes, ensuring it’s perfect for vegans.

How long does the class last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, including presentation, cooking, and tasting.

What should I bring?
Bring a Tupperware if you want to take leftovers home. All ingredients and a welcome drink are included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the class accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible.

Is this experience good for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 10 years old, but older children with an interest in cooking might enjoy it.

Do I need to prepare anything beforehand?
No, just arrive ready to cook and learn — everything is provided and explained during the session.