Portugal: Bacalhau Cooking Class

Portugal: Bacalhau Cooking Class — A Feast of Flavors and History in Lisbon

Trying to recreate Portugal’s beloved bacalhau (salted cod) at home can seem daunting—unless you join a cooking class that takes you behind the scenes of this culinary icon. This 3-hour experience offered by The Chefs Company in Lisbon combines hands-on cooking with storytelling, giving you a genuine taste of Portuguese culture. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking to add a new skill to your culinary repertoire, this class promises a fun, authentic, and delicious journey.

One thing we truly appreciate is how this experience balances educational insights with practical cooking. Learning the cultural significance of bacalhau enhances the tasting, and mastering recipes like Bacalhau à Brás means you’ll leave with skills to impress friends back home. A potential consideration is that the class is not suitable for vegans, vegetarians, or those with food allergies, so plan accordingly.

This experience is especially perfect for foodies and travelers eager to connect with Portuguese traditions in an interactive way. If you’re passionate about trying local dishes and learning cooking techniques from knowledgeable guides, this class could be a highlight of your Lisbon visit.

Key Points

• Authentic recipes: Learn traditional Portuguese cod dishes like Bacalhau à Brás and Bacalhau com Natas.
• Cultural insights: Discover the history and significance of bacalhau in Portugal.
• Hands-on experience: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients while cooking in small groups.
• Take-home skills: Leave with recipes and techniques to recreate the dishes at home.
• Limited groups: Small class size (up to 10 participants) ensures personalized attention.
• Convenient location: Starts at Cooks Store in Lisbon, ending back at the meeting point.

What to Expect from the Bacalhau Cooking Class

When you book this class, you’re signing up for more than just a cooking lesson—you’re stepping into a cultural conversation. The class lasts approximately three hours, and the pace is friendly and manageable, making it suitable for most travelers. You’ll start at Cooks Store, a cozy, well-equipped venue in Lisbon, where you’ll meet your instructor, who speaks both English and Portuguese.

The experience kicks off with a brief overview of bacalhau’s history, explaining why this salted cod has become an essential part of Portuguese identity. You’ll learn about its origins, how it was preserved historically, and its significance in various regional dishes. This background enriches the tasting experience, giving you context that elevates every bite.

Next, the focus shifts to preparation techniques—most importantly, how to properly prepare salted cod. Many reviews mention the importance of soaking the fish, which can take up to 24 hours, but in this class, you’ll get practical tips and tricks to make the process easier and faster. The instructor emphasizes using high-quality ingredients and demonstrates the correct methods for soaking, desalting, and cooking bacalhau.

The Cooking Journey

Once the foundation is set, you’ll get hands-on with three main dishes: Bacalhau à Brás, Bacalhau com Natas, and Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá—each representing a different regional or traditional take on cod. You’ll learn to layer flavors, master cooking techniques, and present each dish beautifully.

Bacalhau à Brás is a crowd favorite—scrambled eggs with salted cod, onions, and potatoes, finished with parsley and olives. The reviewer notes that the instructor’s explanation of the “secret” to perfect scrambled eggs makes all the difference. You’ll also prepare Bacalhau com Natas, a rich, creamy casserole, and Gomes de Sá, a hearty, oven-baked dish with potatoes, onions, and olives. The step-by-step guidance makes it accessible, even for beginners.

Participants rave about the quality of ingredients used—fresh fish, ripe vegetables, and authentic spices—which translate into genuinely flavorful results. The instructor’s tips on seasoning and balancing flavors are particularly appreciated, helping even novice cooks produce restaurant-quality dishes.

Tasting and Sharing

The class concludes with a communal tasting, where you sample all the dishes you’ve prepared. Many reviews highlight the fun of sharing homemade food with new friends, and the instructor often provides helpful suggestions for plating and serving. You’ll receive printed recipes to take home, so you can recreate the experience later or impress friends with your new skills.

Guests have expressed that the tasting experience is both satisfying and educational. One participant mentioned, “I loved the way I could taste the difference when I learned how proper desalting affects the flavor.” Another commented on how the class made them more confident in cooking Portuguese dishes at home.

Practical Details and Value

The class includes all ingredients and equipment, removing the need for extra shopping or prep. You only need to arrange your transportation to the meeting point—Cooks Store—and be punctual for the start. The group size is limited to 10, which creates a relaxed, engaging environment where questions are encouraged.

Cost-wise, this experience offers good value considering the quality of instruction, the hands-on approach, and the delicious tasting. You walk away not only with new recipes but also with a deeper understanding of a beloved culinary tradition. For travelers who love food-centric activities, this class is a practical way to connect more authentically with Lisbon’s local culture.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

It’s ideal for food lovers, curious travelers, and those wanting to bring a taste of Portugal home. It suits people who enjoy interactive, small-group experiences and are open to learning new cooking skills. Given the focus on traditional recipes, it’s especially great for those interested in regional cuisines and cultural storytelling.

However, it’s not suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or travelers with food allergies, as the dishes are heavily centered on salted cod. It’s also not recommended for children under 6 or those with mobility challenges, as the class involves standing, cooking, and some prep work.

Final Thoughts

This Bacalhau cooking class offers a delightful blend of history, technique, and flavor. It’s a wonderful way to dive into Portuguese culinary traditions without leaving Lisbon, especially if you’re eager to learn authentic recipes from passionate guides. The small-group format and focus on quality ingredients make it both intimate and educational, perfect for travelers who want practical skills they can replicate at home.

You’ll leave with a genuine sense of achievement—knowing how to prepare some of Portugal’s most iconic dishes—and a deeper appreciation for the cultural importance of bacalhau. If you’re in Lisbon and looking for a memorable, hands-on way to explore local cuisine, this class hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this cooking class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible, even if you have little cooking experience. The instructor guides you step-by-step through each recipe, making it friendly for novices.

Do I need to bring anything?
No, all ingredients and equipment are provided. Just arrive on time and ready to cook.

How long does the soaking of salted cod take?
While traditional soaking can take up to 24 hours, the instructor provides tips to speed up the process, so you’ll learn efficient techniques during the class.

Can vegetarians or vegans participate?
No, this class is focused on salted cod dishes and is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

What is included in the price?
All cooking ingredients, equipment, recipes, and tasting are included. Transportation to the meeting point is not provided.

Is the class wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, this experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

To sum it up, if you’re seeking an authentic, hands-on culinary experience that connects you with Portugal’s culinary soul, this Bacalhau cooking class is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for those who love good food, cultural stories, and learning practical skills—making your trip to Lisbon even more memorable.