Cooking class: We prepare orecchiette with vegetables from the garden

The Authentic Taste of Apulia: Cooking Orecchiette in a Historic Farmhouse

Imagine spending an afternoon in a charming Apulian farmhouse overlooking lush greenery, learning how to craft fresh orecchiette pasta—a signature dish of the region. For just $89.21 per person, you’ll enjoy a roughly 3-hour experience that combines culinary education with the pleasure of local wine and seasonal vegetables. Set in Castellana Grotte, just outside Bari, this tour offers an authentic taste of southern Italy’s culinary traditions.

What we love about this experience is how it emphasizes local ingredients—like Senatore Cappelli durum wheat, a heritage grain cultivated specifically for its rich flavor—and the garden gathering, which lets you pick your own fresh vegetables and herbs. The warm, rustic setting makes it feel like cooking with friends rather than a guided class. Another highlight is the culinary storytelling about the Apulian diet, which adds cultural context to each bite.

One possible consideration is that the group size is limited to 20, which ensures a personalized experience but might require some flexibility if you’re traveling during busy times. Still, this class is best suited for travelers who love hands-on activities, enjoy regional foods, and appreciate authentic, farm-to-table experiences. If you’re after a relaxed, immersive way to connect with local cuisine, this is a perfect pick.

Key Points

• Authentic Apulian cuisine with fresh, locally sourced ingredients
• Hands-on pasta making of traditional orecchiette
• Garden gathering to pick herbs and vegetables
• Regional wine tasting paired with your meal
• Small group size for a personalized experience
• Cultural insights into the Apulian diet and culinary traditions

A Closer Look at the Experience

Location and Setting

This cooking class takes place in a historic Apulian farmhouse surrounded by nature. The peaceful setting, away from tourist-heavy spots, offers a glimpse into traditional rural life. You’ll meet your hosts at the Chiesetta Rettoria San Nicola Vescovo in Castellana Grotte, a location that’s easily accessible from Bari. The farmhouse itself is described as a place immersed in nature, giving you a feeling of being part of the landscape rather than just a visitor.

What’s Included

Your experience begins with a brief introduction to the Apulian diet, explaining the significance of ingredients and regional culinary habits. Then, the fun begins: you’ll prepare fresh pasta using Senatore Cappelli durum wheat, a grain renowned for its flavor and resilience, cultivated specifically by Masseria Atipica. This authentic wheat adds a depth to the pasta that store-bought versions just can’t match.

Gathering Ingredients from the Garden

A standout part of the tour is the garden gathering—you’ll stroll through the farm’s vegetable patch, collecting seasonal edible herbs and vegetables. This step underscores the farm-to-table philosophy and deepens your appreciation of the ingredients in your dish. Expect to find herbs that are typical in Apulian cooking and possibly some unexpected surprises.

Pasta Preparation and Cooking

Once the ingredients are gathered, you’ll learn how to make the orecchiette—the small, ear-shaped pasta that’s a staple of the region. The process is tactile and satisfying, often described as fun for both beginners and seasoned cooks. After shaping and cooking, the pasta will be combined with a vegetable-based condiment, highlighting the seasonal bounty.

Wine and Tasting

After the cooking, everyone gathers at the table to sample the fruits of their labor. The meal is paired with a good glass of regional wine, often praised for its quality and to complement the fresh, garden-picked vegetables. One reviewer mentioned the excellent wine selection, which adds a special touch to the experience.

Duration and Group Size

The class lasts about 3 hours, a comfortable length for learning, cooking, and enjoying the meal without feeling rushed. The group is limited to 20 guests, which fosters a convivial atmosphere and allows the hosts to give attentive guidance.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

Authenticity and Connection to Local Culture

This isn’t just a cooking demonstration; it’s an immersive experience that connects you directly to the culinary roots of Apulia. The setting in a historic farmhouse and the focus on local ingredients mean you’ll take home more than just a recipe—your memories will include a taste of rural life.

Focus on Quality Ingredients

The use of Senatore Cappelli wheat and fresh garden vegetables is a clear indicator of quality. This focus on seasonal, local produce elevates the typical pasta-making class into a genuine culinary adventure.

Personalized Experience

With a small group size, you’ll have ample opportunity to ask questions, get personalized tips, and share a relaxed meal with like-minded travelers. The inclusion of wine, a key part of regional dining, is a thoughtful touch that enhances the overall value.

Practical Considerations

While the price might seem modest for a multi-hour cooking class, it includes not just the lesson but the ingredients, wine, and the experience of gathering ingredients. This makes it a value-rich activity for food lovers and those eager to connect with local culture.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal if you’re interested in hands-on activities, love regional foods, and want to learn about Apulian culinary traditions. It’s perfect for foodies, families, or couples looking for a relaxed, authentic experience away from crowded tourist spots. If you enjoy local wines and want to understand what makes Apulia’s cuisine distinctive, you’ll find this class rewarding.

The Sum Up

In all, this cooking class in Bari offers much more than just a meal. It’s a chance to get your hands dirty with local ingredients, learn the secrets of making orecchiette, and enjoy a regional wine that complements the flavors beautifully. The setting in a rural farmhouse adds charm and authenticity, making it a memorable part of your visit to Italy’s heel.

You’ll leave with new skills, a better understanding of Apulian dietary habits, and a full belly of delicious food. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or simply curious to see where your pasta comes from, this experience offers genuine value and a taste of everyday life in Puglia.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The class is designed to be accessible whether you’ve never boiled water or are a seasoned cook. The focus is on learning and enjoying the process.

How long does the class last?
The activity runs approximately 3 hours, giving ample time to prepare, cook, and enjoy your meal without feeling hurried.

What ingredients are used?
You’ll work with Senatore Cappelli durum wheat for the pasta and gather seasonal vegetables and herbs from the farm’s garden, ensuring freshness and regional authenticity.

Is wine included?
Yes, you’ll be served a good regional wine to complement your meal, which many reviews praise for its quality.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The policy allows for a full refund if you cancel on time.

What is the meeting point?
You’ll meet at Chiesetta Rettoria San Nicola Vescovo in Castellana Grotte, a convenient location for exploring Bari’s surroundings.

This tailored, authentic experience not only teaches you a regional culinary skill but also immerses you in the rural charm of Puglia. For food lovers eager to connect with local traditions, it’s a memorable, worthwhile activity.