Barcelona: Vegan Paella and traditional rice dishes

Barcelona: Vegan Paella and Traditional Rice Dishes

Starting with the essential details, this 4-hour vegan cooking experience in Barcelona offers a chance to master authentic Spanish rice dishes—including paella Valenciana, arròs al forn, arròs negre, and fideuà—all prepared in a lively, welcoming environment. For €90 per person, you’ll join a small group (minimum of two), guided by knowledgeable instructors who speak several languages, including Catalan, English, German, and Spanish. The meeting point is conveniently located behind Arenas mall and Plaza España, making it accessible whether you’re staying nearby or exploring the city.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the focus on plant-based recipes, which means you can enjoy classic dishes without any animal products. It’s ideal for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone curious about sustainable, health-conscious cuisine. Two aspects we especially like are the interactive nature of the class—everyone gets hands-on experience—and the group tasting buffet that allows you to sample all the dishes you’ve cooked. Plus, the informal, friendly atmosphere has garnered rave reviews, with travelers noting the “amazing food and ambience.”

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the group size minimum of two people. If you’re traveling solo or as a small family, you’ll want to check availability ahead of time. The price includes one drink, with the chance to purchase more drinks afterward, so you can enjoy a glass of local wine or other beverages to complement your meal. If you love cooking, authentic flavors, and a lively social setting, this class is well worth considering. It suits those who enjoy immersive experiences and want a practical skill they can recreate back home.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Spanish rice dishes: Learn to prepare classic recipes like paella Valenciana, arròs al forn, arròs negre, and fideuà using vegan ingredients.
• Hands-on learning: The class is interactive, allowing all participants to cook, taste, and enjoy the dishes together.
• Small group size: Minimum of two participants ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Inclusive beverages: One drink is included; additional drinks can be purchased at the venue.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; book now and pay later to keep your plans open.
• Accessible setting: The venue is wheelchair accessible and located in a central, convenient part of Barcelona.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Walking through the itinerary of this vegan rice dishes class, you start at In Bloom Cooking School—a modern, approachable kitchen behind the vibrant Arenas mall and Plaza España. The atmosphere is relaxed, yet energetic, setting the stage for a fun learning session. Once everyone arrives, your instructor—who may speak Catalan, English, German, or Spanish—begins with a brief introduction, explaining the dishes you’ll soon prepare.

The menu is carefully curated to showcase a variety of traditional rice preparations, all adapted to be vegan:

Paella Valenciana

This dish is the star of the show, featuring Bomba rice, green beans, garrafó (Valencian fava beans), and marinated Heura chicken-style pieces. The inclusion of vegetable broth ensures a rich flavor without animal ingredients. You’ll appreciate the way the instructor demonstrates the perfect simmering technique and the importance of toasting the rice for that authentic flavor.

Arròs al forn (oven-baked rice)

Prepared with Bomba rice, tomatoes, potatoes, and chickpeas, this hearty dish includes vegan sausage and marinated mushrooms bacon-style for extra flavor. The use of oven-based cooking is a delightful twist that adds a layer of complexity to the class, giving you a broader understanding of rice-based dishes in Spain.

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Arròs negre (black rice)

This striking dish gets its signature black color from seaweed and features grilled vegan prawns made from konjak. The seaweed broth and peppers add depth, while the rancid wine (likely a typo or translation quirk, probably a wine reduction) enhances the savory profile. The experience of handling konjak vegan prawns allows you to see how innovative plant-based ingredients can mimic seafood.

Fideuà

A pasta-based version of paella, made with fine pasta, aubergine, red pepper, and white wine. The vegan konjak squid provides the seafood element, and the seaweed broth ties the dish back to traditional flavors. The instructor’s tips on pasta cooking times and seasoning make it clear why fideuà is a beloved dish in Catalonia.

The Final Feast

After all the dishes are prepared, the group gathers around to enjoy a buffet-style tasting. This setup lets you compare flavors, textures, and techniques, often highlighting the variety and richness of Spanish rice dishes. One participant described the food as “amazing,” emphasizing the deliciousness of the dishes and the warm ambience.

Additional Details

The class lasts about four hours, providing ample time to learn, cook, and taste without feeling rushed. Unlike other culinary experiences, this one emphasizes sustainable, vegan cooking—a delightful change from the typical seafood-heavy Spanish cuisine. The instructor’s friendly, multilingual approach ensures everyone feels comfortable, even if you’re new to cooking or unfamiliar with Spanish ingredients.

What We Loved Most

Two standout features of this experience are how approachable and practical the instructions are—making it easy for anyone to replicate the dishes at home—and the inclusive atmosphere where everyone shares in the cooking and tasting. The fact that you get to prepare multiple recipes and then enjoy them together is a real highlight, turning a cooking class into a shared celebration. Plus, the local ingredients and flavors give you a taste of authentic Catalan cuisine, reimagined for vegans.

The reviews echo this enjoyment. One traveler called it “food and ambience were amazing,” highlighting the friendly setting and quality of the food. Such positive feedback underscores that this isn’t just a cooking lesson but a memorable social experience.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While the experience is highly praised, travelers should note that minimum group size of two might be a barrier if you’re traveling alone or with a very small group. The price of $90 per person is reasonable considering the length and hands-on nature of the class, but it’s worth comparing with other local activities if you’re budget-conscious. Also, if you’re someone who prefers more structured or guided tours, this laid-back, interactive style might feel a bit casual.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This class is perfect for food lovers, especially those interested in vegan or plant-based cuisines. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or small groups who want a fun, educational activity that results in a delicious meal. Travelers who enjoy cooking, culture, and authentic flavors will find it especially rewarding. It’s also a great choice if you’re curious about Catalan rice dishes but want a vegan-friendly option.

Final Thoughts

This vegan paella and rice dish class in Barcelona offers more than just a cooking lesson; it’s a chance to connect with local cuisine in a relaxed, social setting. The variety of dishes, from paella Valenciana to fideuà, showcases the diversity of traditional rice preparations in Spain, all adapted thoughtfully to be vegan. The small group environment and inclusive tasting make it a memorable experience for anyone looking to expand their culinary skills and enjoy authentic flavors.

While it’s best suited for those open to hands-on participation and sharing a meal with others, it’s also a fantastic way to pick up practical skills that you can recreate at home. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious about plant-based cooking, this experience provides both education and enjoyment—an authentic taste of Barcelona’s culinary soul, with a green twist.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be approachable for all levels. The instructor provides clear guidance, and the recipes are straightforward enough for beginners to follow.

How many dishes will I learn to make?
You’ll learn to prepare four main dishes: paella Valenciana, arròs al forn, arròs negre, and fideuà. The number may vary depending on the group size, but all you will cook and taste each dish.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring a Tupperware if you want to take home any leftovers.

Are drinks included?
One drink is included in the price. Additional beverages are available for purchase at the venue, paid at the end of the class.

Is the venue accessible?
Yes, the location is wheelchair accessible, providing an inclusive environment for all participants.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility in your travel planning.

How long is the class?
The experience lasts approximately four hours, giving enough time for learning, cooking, and enjoying your meal without feeling rushed.

This vegan rice dishes tour in Barcelona offers a practical, tasty, and sociable way to explore Catalan cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious traveler, you’ll leave with new skills and a full belly—what’s not to like?

You can check availability for your dates here: