Barcelona: Vegan Paella and traditional rice dishes

If you’re craving a taste of Spain’s iconic rice dishes but prefer plant-based options, this vegan paella and rice dishes experience in Barcelona offers a wonderfully authentic and compassionate culinary journey. Hosted by In Bloom Cooking School, this 4-hour class combines cooking, tasting, and learning, all within a lively and welcoming setting. With a focus on vegan adaptations of classic recipes, it’s a fantastic way to understand the cultural significance of rice in Catalonia — minus the animal products.

One thing we really love about this experience is how it balances instruction and social enjoyment. Not only do you’ll learn how to prepare a range of traditional rice dishes, but you’ll also get to taste each creation as part of a communal buffet, which makes it feel more like a friendly gathering than a formal class. The small group size (from just 2 people) keeps things intimate and allows for more personalized attention from the instructor.

A potential consideration is that this experience is not suitable for children under 10, which might be a bummer for families traveling with young kids. Also, while the price ($90) includes a drink and lots of delicious food, you’ll need to pay separately for additional beverages if you want something extra — a minor detail, but worth noting if you enjoy constant refreshments.

This tour suits travelers who love food-focused experiences, especially those interested in vegan cuisine or wanting to learn authentic Spanish rice dishes in a relaxed environment. If you’re after a hands-on, local experience that blends cooking with cultural insights, this class hits the mark.

Key Points

• Authentic Recipes: Learn to prepare traditional dishes like Paella Valenciana, Arròs al forn, Arròs negre, and Fideuà, all veganized.
• Interactive Experience: Cook together with others, taste all the dishes, and enjoy a lively, friendly atmosphere.
• Inclusive & Accessible: Group sizes start from 2, and the class is wheelchair accessible.
• Local Guidance: Taught by knowledgeable instructors speaking several languages, including Catalan, English, German, and Spanish.
• Value for Money: $90 covers cooking, tasting, and a welcome drink, making it a worthwhile investment for food lovers.
• Flexible Cancellation & Payment: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and book now, pay later option.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Location & Meeting Point

This class kicks off at In Bloom Cooking School, located behind Arenas mall and near Plaza España — both central, easily accessible spots. The setting feels authentic and inviting, with a modern yet cozy atmosphere that encourages relaxed learning. The location’s accessibility and proximity to major landmarks make it easy for travelers to incorporate into their day.

Duration & Schedule

Spanning around 4 hours, the experience is designed to fit comfortably into a busy sightseeing itinerary. Participants should check availability for specific starting times, as this can vary. The class begins with a warm welcome, followed by a step-by-step guide to creating each dish, with plenty of time for questions. The relaxed timeline means you’re not rushed, allowing for a genuine, immersive experience.

Group Size & Atmosphere

Starting from a minimum of 2 participants, the class maintains an intimate vibe that fosters interaction—not just with the instructor but among participants too. This setup is perfect for those who prefer personalized attention or want a more social experience. The atmosphere is described as great, lively, and friendly, conducive to both learning and sharing good food.

Recipes & Cooking Process

The core of the class revolves around several vegan rice dishes:

• Paella Valenciana: Using bomba rice, green beans, Valencian fava beans, and marinated, grilled Heura chicken-style strips. The class emphasizes creating the right vegetable broth for authentic flavor.
• Arròs al forn: Oven rice with vegan sausage, potatoes, tomatoes, and chickpeas, showcasing how to make a hearty, baked rice dish.
• Arròs negre: Black rice with seaweed, peas, peppers, and vegan prawns made from konjac, served with a seaweed broth and allioli (garlic sauce).
• Fideuà: A pasta-based alternative to paella, with grilled vegan squid made from konjac, aubergine, and red pepper, cooked in white wine and seaweed broth.

Throughout the process, you’ll learn plant-based substitutions to traditional ingredients, such as vegan sausages and prawns, which keep the dishes authentic while aligning with vegan principles. Participants prepare each dish collectively, then sit down for a buffet-style tasting, allowing everyone to sample the full range of flavors.

Food & Beverage

Your ticket includes one drink — often a soft beverage or perhaps wine, depending on the day — with the option to purchase more at the venue. The communal tasting encourages sharing and conversation, transforming the meal into a social event. The quality of food, as indicated by reviewers, is top-notch, with many praising the deliciousness and authenticity of the dishes.

Instructor & Languages

The class is led by instructors who speak several languages, including Catalan, English, German, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for international visitors. Their expertise shines through as they guide you through each step, offering tips and cultural insights along the way.

Practical Details & Additional Info

• Bring a Tupperware: Participants are advised to bring a container to take leftover food home — a handy tip for reducing waste and enjoying leftovers later.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly, making it inclusive for a broader audience.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior offers peace of mind for flexible travelers.
• Children: Not suitable for kids under 10, so plan accordingly.

What We Learned From the Reviews

One reviewer raved, “Food and ambience were amazing! Highly recommend.” This echoes what many participants experience: a delicious meal paired with a warm, lively environment. Another pointed out the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views that come with the overall experience — even if views aren’t a direct part of the class, the setting enhances the ambiance.

The praise for authentic, flavorful recipes and the chance to learn vegan adaptations of traditional dishes makes this experience especially appealing to those seeking culinary authenticity with an ethical twist.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This class is ideal for food lovers, especially those interested in vegan cuisine or wanting to understand traditional Spanish rice dishes without animal products. It’s also perfect for travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences and prefer a social, communal setting. Given its 4-hour duration, it suits those looking for a substantial but flexible activity during their Barcelona stay.

If you’re traveling alone or with a partner, the small group size ensures you’ll get plenty of attention and interaction. Families with children over 10 will find it suitable, but younger kids might not be the best fit. The price point, considering the quality of instruction and food, offers good value for a memorable and enriching experience.

The Sum Up

This vegan paella and rice dishes class in Barcelona delivers more than just a cooking lesson — it offers a glimpse into the heart of Spanish culinary tradition, reimagined through compassionate, plant-based ingredients. With expert guidance, a convivial atmosphere, and dishes that truly impress, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone eager to explore authentic flavors without compromising their values.

Travelers who value interactive, authentic experiences will find this class a highlight of their Barcelona visit. It’s equally suited for foodies eager to learn new recipes, vegans seeking local culinary insights, or curious travelers wanting a fun, educational activity that feeds both body and soul.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this experience promises a delightful journey through Spain’s iconic rice dishes — vegan style — all wrapped in warmth, flavor, and cultural charm.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible to all levels, with step-by-step guidance suitable for beginners and experienced cooks alike.

How many recipes will I learn to make?
The number of recipes depends on the group size, but you’ll typically prepare and taste several dishes, including paella Valenciana, oven rice with vegan sausage, black rice with vegan prawns, and fideuà.

What’s included in the price?
The $90 fee covers cooking, tasting, and one drink. Additional drinks can be purchased at the venue and paid for later.

Can I bring my own drinks?
No, outside drinks aren’t permitted, but you can buy drinks at the school.

Is the class wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

Do I need to bring anything?
Participants are encouraged to bring a Tupperware to take leftovers home.

Can children join this class?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 10 years old.

What languages are spoken during the class?
Instructors speak Catalan, English, German, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Where does the class start and end?
It begins at In Bloom Cooking School near Arenas mall and Plaza España and concludes back at the starting point.

This vegan paella and rice dishes class provides a practical, flavorful, and culturally enriching experience that will appeal to anyone eager to explore Spain’s cuisine in a compassionate way. It’s a perfect combination of learning, tasting, and socializing — a true highlight for your Barcelona trip.