Step into the heart of Nepali culture with a hands-on cooking experience at Kathmandu Cooking Academy. This engaging 3-hour class is perfect for curious travelers and food enthusiasts who want to dive deeper into Nepal’s culinary traditions. Guided by a friendly local chef, you’ll learn to prepare three authentic Nepali dishes, including the beloved momo—Nepal’s famous dumpling—using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Your culinary adventure begins with a warm welcome and a cup of traditional Nepali masala tea, followed by a short market visit to select key ingredients. Back in the kitchen, you’ll enjoy step-by-step guidance as you chop, season, and cook your way through classic recipes. With a small group size of no more than 12 participants, the experience is personal, interactive, and unforgettable—ending with a delicious tasting session where everyone comes together to enjoy the meal they’ve created.
Welcome & Introduction (10 minutes)
Your experience begins at Kathmandu Cooking Academy, where you’ll be greeted by your local host and introduced to the cozy kitchen space. We’ll give a brief overview of what to expect during the class, walk you through the day’s menu, and share a bit about Nepal’s food culture and culinary traditions. It’s a warm and informal introduction that sets the tone for a fun and interactive session.
Welcome with Masala Tea (Black or Milk)
As part of Nepali hospitality, you’ll be offered a comforting cup of traditional Nepali masala tea, prepared fresh with aromatic spices. You can choose between milk tea (more traditional and creamy) or black tea (lighter, spiced version). It’s a flavorful start that reflects the warm, home-style welcome typical of Nepali households.
Market Visit (10 minutes)
Before cooking, enjoy a short walk to a nearby local market or shop, where you’ll learn about the essential ingredients in Nepali cuisine. With guidance from your chef, you’ll explore fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices that are key to making momos, curries, and other local dishes. It’s a great way to understand the importance of freshness and seasonality in Nepali cooking.
Menu for Cooking Session (1.5 – 2 Hours)
Now it’s time to roll up your sleeves! Over the next 90–120 minutes, you'll prepare three traditional Nepali dishes. These usually include a variety such as momo (dumplings), dal bhat (lentil soup with rice and curry), and a seasonal side or dessert. You’ll receive step-by-step guidance—from chopping and mixing to seasoning and steaming—while also learning the background and cultural relevance of each dish. Vegetarian and vegan options are always available upon request.
Tasting Session
After cooking, gather around the table for a relaxed and joyful tasting session, where you’ll enjoy the dishes you prepared with the group. This is a time to share stories, ask final questions, and connect with fellow participants. It’s the perfect way to end your experience—enjoying a homemade Nepali meal created by your own hands, with new friends and a deeper appreciation for the country’s cuisine.
Start Time Class begins (9:00 AM or 4:30 PM) – Arrival at Kathmandu Cooking Academy
0:00 – 0:10 Welcome & Introduction – Meet your instructor and fellow participants
Enjoy a warm cup of Nepali masala tea (black or milk)
0:10 – 0:20 Market Visit – Short walk to a nearby local shop to select fresh ingredients
0:20 – 2:00 Cooking Session – Hands-on class to prepare 3 traditional Nepali dishes
Step-by-step guidance from a local chef – vegetarian/vegan options available
2:00 – 2:30 Tasting Session – Enjoy the delicious dishes you prepared
Share stories and cultural insights with the group
End Time Class concludes (approx. 12:00 PM or 7:30 PM) – Farewell and group photo (optional)
| Course | Options |
| Entree | - Bara (Fried Lentil Patties) |
| - Chatamari (Nepali Rice Pancake) | |
| - Aloo Chop (Spiced, Deep-Fried Potato Patties) | |
| Main Course | - Dal Bhat (with Chicken or Vegetarian Curry) |
| - Momo (Chicken or Veg Dumplings) with Achar (Pickle) | |
| - Thukpa (Tibetan-style Noodle Soup with Nepali Spices) | |
| Dessert | - Yomari (Sweet Dumpling with Jaggery and Sesame) |
| - Kheer (Creamy Rice Pudding) | |
| - Carrot Halwa (Nepali Carrot Pudding) | |
| - Mushroom Choila (Spicy Marinated Mushrooms) | |
| Welcome Drink | Nepali Masala Tea (Milk or Black) |
Inclusion
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (optional an additional cost)
- Hands-on cooking class with step-by-step guidance
- Market/shop tour for buying fresh ingredients
- Use of cooking equipment and accessories
- Tasting session of prepared meals
- Complimentary Nepali masala tea
Excluions
- Specialty or alcoholic drinks
- Tips for the chef or staff
Kathmandu: Nepali Cooking Class & Momo Making with a Local offers a unique and enriching experience that goes beyond just cooking—it's a cultural immersion into the heart of Nepalese hospitality and tradition. From sipping masala tea and exploring local ingredients to mastering three authentic dishes and enjoying a shared meal, this class is the perfect blend of learning, flavor, and fun. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, you'll leave with not just a full stomach but also new skills, memories, and a deeper connection to Nepal.
Kathmandu: Local Lead Momo Making Class: 1.5 Hours
Kathmandu: Private Nepali Cooking Class & Momo Making with a Local: 4 Hours
