Barcelona: Catalan Cuisine cooking course 100% vegan

If you’re heading to Barcelona and craving a culinary experience that combines local tradition with a plant-based twist, the Catalan Cuisine vegan cooking class might just be the highlight of your trip. For $90 per person, you get 3 to 4 hours of hands-on cooking, learning to make iconic dishes like Fideuá, Fricandó, and Escalivada — all made vegan. Led by friendly, knowledgeable instructors in a beautiful, dedicated plant-based kitchen, this class is a fantastic way to understand Catalan flavors and culture through your taste buds.

We especially love how accessible and inclusive this experience is — no prior cooking skills necessary — and the fact that all recipes are made with 100% plant-based ingredients. The sense of community, the chance to try your hand at regional classics, and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere make it a worthwhile addition to any Barcelona itinerary.

One thing to consider is that the class size is small (fewer than 10 participants), which is great for personalized attention but might mean limited availability during peak seasons. If you love food, culture, and hands-on experiences, this class is perfect for you. It’s especially suited for those curious about vegan cuisine or anyone wanting to bring authentic Catalan flavors into their home cooking.

Key Points

• Authentic Catalan vegan recipes taught in a dedicated plant-based kitchen
• Small group setting ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Tastings included after cooking, offering a genuine experience of Catalan flavors
• Flexible options with reservation and payment details that accommodate travel plans
• Ideal for food lovers seeking hands-on culinary experiences with cultural insights
• Accessible to all with wheelchair-friendly facilities and no prior cooking experience needed

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Taste of Catalan Vegan Cuisine

Imagine strolling through Barcelona’s lively streets, then stepping into a bright, welcoming cooking school behind Plaza España. Here, the atmosphere buzzes with anticipation as you prepare to learn some of the most cherished regional dishes—all vegan. The cost of $90 covers a generous 3 to 4 hours of activity, including a brief introduction, cooking, and savoring your creations in a charming, well-equipped space.

What really makes this experience stand out is the focus on regional authenticity combined with vegan innovation. You’ll learn that traditional Catalan dishes can be reimagined without animal products, without sacrificing flavor or heartiness. The instructor guides you through recipes like Coca de escalivada, featuring roasted vegetables on bread, or the Fideuá, a noodle-based “paella” loaded with artichokes and asparagus, finished with a creamy Alioli.

Two specific aspects we love are the comprehensive nature of the class: starting with a short presentation, then a 1.5 to 2-hour hands-on cooking session, followed by tasting and socializing. It’s well-paced, with time enough to absorb techniques and ask questions. The second is the beautiful setting, which adds to the enjoyment—you’re not just learning recipes but doing so in a space that reflects Catalan charm.

However, one consideration is that this isn’t a quick, “drop-in” workshop. It requires a commitment of a few hours, so plan accordingly if you’re on a tight schedule. Also, while the class size is small and intimate, this might limit availability during busy travel seasons. Booking in advance is wise.

This experience suits travelers who are foodies, vegetarians or vegans, or those simply eager to dive into regional cuisine in a fun, relaxed environment. It’s also perfect for people who appreciate authentic cultural interactions topped with delicious food.

What You Can Expect

The Meeting Point and Duration

The class begins at In Bloom Cooking School, located behind Plaza España and near Arenas mall. The entire experience lasts around 3 to 4 hours, giving ample time for learning, cooking, and tasting. The session is structured to include a 20-30 minute introduction, a 1.5-2 hour hands-on cooking period, and then another 1.5-2 hours for enjoying the meal in a cozy, beautiful environment.

The Recipes and Cooking Experience

You’ll learn how to prepare a variety of Catalan vegan dishes: from starters like Sobrasada pastries (a smoked paprika pâté) and Brased leeks with Romesco sauce, to main courses such as Fideuá with artichokes and Fricandó made with soy-based “meat.” Don’t forget the seasonal cannelloni with béchamel, and the White beans “Butifarra”, a vegan sausage that’s surprisingly authentic-tasting.

For dessert, you’ll whip up a Cream of almonds, Menjar blanc, which provides a sweet end to your culinary journey. All recipes are prepared by all participants in small groups, ensuring everyone gets a chance to participate and learn.

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The Tasting and Atmosphere

Once the cooking is complete, it’s time to sit down and taste your creations. You’ll enjoy a welcome drink, which sets the tone for a convivial meal. The tasting session lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing plenty of time to savor each dish, discuss techniques, and swap culinary tips.

The setting itself is not only functional but charming—bright, airy, and designed to foster conversation. This relaxed environment makes it easy to connect with fellow travelers or locals, adding a social dimension to the experience.

Value and Inclusions

The $90 price includes all ingredients, the cooking session, the tasting, and the welcome drink. Extra drinks are available for purchase at the end, so you can pair your meal with some local wines or soft drinks if you wish. The experience is wheelchair accessible and conducted in multiple languages (Catalan, English, German, Spanish), making it accessible for diverse groups.

Authenticity and Cultural Insight

This class isn’t just about recipes; it’s a window into Catalan culinary traditions reimagined through vegan cuisine. The instructor’s explanations about regional ingredients, techniques, and the story behind each dish deepen your understanding of Catalonia’s food culture. As one reviewer noted, “We learned about Catalonian culture through traditional dishes made vegan,” which underscores the experience’s educational value.

On top of that, the small group size ensures personalized attention, making it easier for participants to ask questions and refine their skills. Based on reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable.

Analyzing the Value

For $90, you’re not just getting a cooking class but an immersive cultural activity that combines learning, tasting, and socializing. Given the small group setting and the comprehensive nature of the experience, the value is excellent. Plus, the opportunity to take home leftovers in Tupperware adds a practical bonus, letting you enjoy your culinary creations later.

Compared to other experiences that might be more touristy or less authentic, this class emphasizes local flavors, vegan adaptation, and hands-on participation. The fact that reviews praise both the location and the guides’ expertise confirms its quality.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cooking course is ideal for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone wanting to explore Catalan cuisine with a plant-based twist. It suits food lovers who enjoy interactive experiences and want to learn practical skills they can recreate at home. Travelers interested in cultural exchange and regional traditions will find it especially rewarding.

It’s also perfect if you appreciate small-group, personalized experiences and are comfortable spending a few hours in a kitchen. While not suitable for children under 10, older kids and teenagers with an interest in cooking will find it engaging.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, since the entire class is based on 100% plant-based ingredients, it’s perfect for vegans and vegetarians.

Can I book last minute?
Booking is recommended, especially because of limited spots and popularity. You can reserve in advance and often pay later to keep your plans flexible.

Are there options for non-English speakers?
Yes, the class is conducted in Catalan, English, German, and Spanish, making it accessible to a diverse range of travelers.

How long is the class?
The experience lasts 3 to 4 hours, including introduction, cooking, and tasting.

Does the price include drinks?
The price includes a welcome drink. Additional drinks can be purchased afterward.

Is the location easy to find?
Yes, it’s behind Plaza España, near Arenas mall, in a convenient, central spot.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, children under 10 are not recommended. The experience is tailored for older children and adults.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring a Tupperware to take leftovers home, if you wish.

Final Thoughts

This Catalan vegan cooking class in Barcelona offers more than just recipes; it’s a chance to connect with local traditions through a modern, compassionate lens. The small, friendly setting, combined with a carefully curated menu, makes it an engaging and authentic activity for foodies and curious travelers alike.

Whether you’re hoping to impress friends with your new skills or simply want to enjoy a delicious, homemade vegan meal, this experience delivers value, culture, and fun. The ability to learn regional dishes in a relaxed environment, coupled with the delectable tastings and friendly guides, makes it a clear winner in the realm of culinary experiences.

If you’re eager to bring home more than just souvenirs and want a meaningful taste of Barcelona’s food culture — with a plant-based twist — this class is well worth your time. It’s an opportunity to expand your culinary repertoire and gain a deeper appreciation for Catalan cuisine, all while enjoying a memorable, hands-on adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: