Cooking class: We prepare orecchiette with vegetables from the garden

Introduction

If you’re looking to combine a love of food with a taste of Italy’s charming countryside, this cooking class in Bari offers a unique experience. It’s not just about learning how to make orecchiette, the iconic pasta of Puglia, but about enjoying the local traditions in a beautiful, historic farmhouse surrounded by nature.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its intimate setting—only up to 20 participants—and how it blends practical cooking skills with cultural insights. Plus, the focus on fresh, garden-grown vegetables and premium wheat makes this class both authentic and delicious.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a three-hour experience, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy hands-on activities and are willing to spend some time in the kitchen. If you’re a foodie eager to learn about Apulian cuisine and love a good glass of local wine, this tour could be a perfect match.

Key Points

• Authentic Apulian Cooking: Learn to prepare orecchiette with freshly picked vegetables right from the garden.
• Local Ingredients: Focus on Senatore Cappelli durum wheat and locally sourced vegetables, making the experience truly authentic.
• Beautiful Setting: The class takes place in a historic farmhouse surrounded by nature, adding a peaceful, rustic charm.
• Wine and Food Pairing: End with a tasting of your homemade pasta, complemented by a good local wine.
• Small Group Size: With a maximum of 20 travelers, expect a personalized, friendly atmosphere.
• Value for Money: At $89.21, it combines hands-on learning, fresh ingredients, and culture into a compelling package.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Venue: A Historic Apulian Farmhouse

The experience kicks off at the Chiesetta Rettoria San Nicola Vescovo in Castellana Grotte, a charming location that hints at the rustic authenticity to come. The farmhouse setting is immersed in nature, providing a tranquil backdrop that makes the cooking all the more special. This environment encourages a relaxed, engaging atmosphere where you can truly connect with the process of traditional Italian cooking.

What You’ll Do: Making Orecchiette from Scratch

The core of the class is the preparation of orecchiette, a type of pasta that’s both fun to shape and full of flavor. You’ll first learn about the significance of Senatore Cappelli durum wheat, a high-quality grain produced by the local farm, Masseria Atipica, which is renowned for its authenticity and flavor.

Then, the real hands-on part begins. You’ll gather vegetables and herbs directly from the garden—think seasonal leafy greens, aromatic herbs, and possibly some edible flowers or wild herbs. This component adds an educational twist, as the guide will briefly introduce the typical Apulian diet and how these fresh ingredients are used in everyday local cuisine.

According to a reviewer, the host himself personally welcomes guests and offers local wine, which adds a friendly, genuine touch to the experience. This personal interaction makes the class stand out compared to more generic cooking demos.

The Cooking Process: From Garden to Plate

The process is straightforward but satisfying. You’ll learn to knead and roll the dough, then shape the orecchiette—a small, ear-shaped pasta that’s quintessential to Puglia. While you work, you can ask questions about the ingredients and techniques, creating an interactive and educational environment.

The vegetables you gather are used to prepare a tasty sauce or condiment, which will accompany the pasta. The focus on fresh, garden-picked ingredients ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

The Final Tasting

Once everything is cooked, the group gathers around the table to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The meal is paired with a good glass of local wine, a detail that many reviewers, including one praising the selection, appreciated deeply. This communal tasting not only completes the culinary journey but offers a chance to relax and swap stories with fellow travelers.

Practical Details: Logistics and Atmosphere

The tour lasts about three hours, making it an ideal afternoon activity. It starts at 10:00 AM or similar times, with the ease of a mobile ticket allowing for smooth access. The group remains small, capped at 20 participants, which fosters a more personal experience.

The tour is priced at approximately $89.21 per person, which, considering the quality of ingredients, the authentic setting, and the hands-on nature, offers solid value. It’s perfect for those who want more than a quick demo—this is a participatory experience with tangible takeaway skills.

The Review Perspective: What Travelers Say

While only one review is available, it provides insight into the warm, welcoming atmosphere. The host’s personal touch—greeting guests and offering seasonal local dishes—is highlighted as a highlight. The reviewer mentions the “service impeccable,” and the overall experience left them eager to return, underscoring the hospitality aspect that makes this class special.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cooking class suits travelers who want to connect with local food traditions in an intimate, scenic setting. It’s ideal for foodies eager to learn traditional pasta-making techniques and those interested in Apulian ingredients like Senatore Cappelli wheat and garden vegetables. If you’re seeking a relaxed, engaging activity that combines culinary skills with cultural insights, this experience delivers.

It’s also a fantastic choice for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking to deepen their appreciation for Italian cuisine. The inclusion of local wine and the opportunity to ask questions in a friendly environment make it a memorable, enriching experience.

The Sum Up

For anyone visiting Bari and craving a genuine taste of Puglia’s culinary roots, this hands-on pasta class offers plenty of value. You’ll learn to craft oregheitte using locally produced wheat, incorporate freshly picked garden vegetables, and enjoy a convivial meal paired with fine local wine, all in a tranquil farmhouse setting. The small-group format ensures personal attention, and the focus on authentic ingredients makes the experience both delicious and educational.

If you’re a food lover who appreciates local traditions, this class will satisfy both your palate and your curiosity. It’s perfect for those who want to take home more than just memories—like a new skill and a deeper understanding of the regional diet.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, since the class focuses on vegetables from the garden and homemade pasta, vegetarians will find it easy to enjoy the meal and participate fully.

How long does the class last?
The experience lasts about three hours, roughly from start to finish, including preparation, cooking, and tasting.

What ingredients are used?
You’ll work with Senatore Cappelli durum wheat, freshly picked vegetables, and herbs from the garden, along with local wine for pairing.

Do I need to bring anything?
No special items are needed; everything—including aprons and ingredients—is provided. Just bring your enthusiasm!

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. The tour provider will issue a full refund if canceled within this window.

Is the experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, it’s generally suitable for families with older children interested in cooking, as long as they can participate in the hands-on activities.

Is transportation provided?
The meeting point is specified as the Chiesetta Rettoria San Nicola Vescovo, but no mention of transport is made, so travelers should arrange their own transportation to the location.

This delightful cooking class combines the best of regional ingredients, authentic techniques, and warm hospitality—perfect for those wanting a true taste of Apulian cuisine.