ShoreTrips says...

Personally, I have such wonderful experiences that relate to the local foods when I'm traveling. There is something about the air surrounding unfamiliar foods that makes one's mouth water.

What better way to learn about a culture than tasting it? Have no apprehensions here as you will meet and be guided by one of several experienced and professional chefs--each specializing in Nyonya, Malay, and Chinese cuisines. You will learn to cook local favourites such as Nasi Lemak, Assam Laksa, and Chicken Tandoori, and even concoct refreshing spice-inspired beverages. In a very relaxed and friendly setting, your chef will introduce her/himself and begin a journey into the history of Malaysian cooking.

This immersion into the culinary side of Malaysia will enhance your life at home, as well as deliver a memorable day, as the recipes used will be transferable to your home kitchen. An introduction to the flavours of this country will begin with a visit to the herb garden where you will learn, and even pick, some of the ingredients that you will be using in your class. Some of the seasonings will be familiar and used in your dishes, but others much more exotic will make you wonder, such as Daun Kaduk, Galangal, Pandan, Kacip Fatimah, Candlenut, King of Bitter, Asian Pennyworth, and Sabah Snake Grass! What fun to learn, smell, and taste these components used so commonly in this country, but never heard of at home.

Surrounded by wild forested areas, along with a view of the Andaman Sea, you will get comfortable in a professional setting. With lovely 2-person workstations, you will really have an opportunity to understand the use of grinding stones, but don't worry as these techniques are easily replaced at home with an electric blender! Dishes from the island of Penang in the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia possess Thai influences, such as the more liberal use of tamarind and other sour ingredients. Dishes from Singapore and Malacca show a greater Indonesian influence, such as the use of coconut milk.

During the course of your stay at the school, you will enjoy a fragrant cup of tea before becoming engrossed in your kitchen. Helpful hands will direct you each step of the way as you make progress and get hungrier by the minute. As the heat goes up and the AC comes on, you will be engulfed in a cloud of fragrant aromas that will have your stomach grumbling in anticipation.

Savoring lunch with the chef and the dishes you created will finish off your experience. And all the while you are there, you will be sharing conversation with professional local people who are passionate about both country and food.