Lyon: Asian cooking classes: make your own baos!

Lyon: Asian Cooking Classes — Make Your Own Baos!

Imagine spending an afternoon in Lyon, not just sightseeing but rolling up your sleeves to create authentic Chinese bao buns. For $88 per person, this 3.5-hour workshop offers a delightful escape into Asian cuisine right in the heart of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Led by Chef Ying, you’ll learn step-by-step how to shape, fill, and steam these soft, fluffy buns—delicious street food that’s just as popular in China as croissants are in France.

What we particularly love about this experience is how interactive and hands-on it is—you’re not just watching a demonstration, you’re making the baos yourself, guided by an expert who shares her tips and tricks. Plus, the opportunity to prepare vegetarian options makes it a flexible choice for those with dietary restrictions. The fact that you leave with your own baos to enjoy or take home gives this class a tangible, tasty souvenir of your Lyon trip.

A potential consideration is that gluten intolerance isn’t accommodated**, so if you have a gluten allergy, this might not be the best fit. Also, because the workshop is limited to small groups of only 10 participants, it’s ideal for those who like a more intimate and personalized learning environment. This activity is perfect for curious food lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone wanting an authentic, flavorful experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Who should consider this experience?

It’s excellent for foodies eager to learn new cooking skills, travelers wanting an interactive cultural experience, or those looking for a fun, memorable activity in Lyon that offers both education and delicious results.

Key Points

• Authentic learning: Step into the shoes of a Chinese chef and learn how to make baos from scratch.
• Customized recipes: Prepare two fillings, with vegetarian options available, accommodating dietary preferences.
• Practical skills: Master dough shaping, filling, braiding, and steaming techniques that you can practice at home.
• Cultural insight: Discover the significance of baos in Chinese street food culture and how to prepare them traditionally.
• Tasting and sharing: Enjoy your homemade baos immediately or take them home—perfect for impressing family or friends.
• Small group size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

A Close Look at What to Expect in Lyon’s Bao Workshop

Stepping into Ying’s restaurant feels like entering a cozy culinary classroom—bright, welcoming, and bursting with the aroma of fresh ingredients. The experience begins with an overview of bao buns, the soft, stuffed steamed buns that are a staple in Chinese street food.

The Shaping of Dough

The first step is learning to shape the dough. Chef Ying guides you through kneading and rolling, sharing her tips for achieving that perfectly smooth, elastic consistency. We appreciated how she emphasized the importance of gentle handling, which ensures the baos turn out fluffy and tender. This part is fundamental because a well-shaped bao makes all the difference in presentation and texture.

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Preparing Fillings

Next comes the fillings, which are surprisingly versatile. You’ll prepare two different recipes—some with meat, others vegetarian. The class emphasizes fresh ingredients and flavor balance, whether it’s savory pork, vegetables, or vegan-friendly alternatives. Chef Ying shares her tricks for balancing seasonings and filling the buns evenly. Authenticity is key here; the fillings are representative of traditional Chinese street food, making the experience educational as well as practical.

Braiding Technique

What sets this workshop apart is the braiding technique. It’s the most technical part, but Chef Ying patiently guides everyone through the process. We loved how she turned what seemed complicated into manageable steps, and her encouragement made it fun rather than frustrating. This skill elevates your baos, giving them a professional appearance and a more satisfying eating experience.

Steaming in Bamboo Baskets

Once shaped and filled, the baos are steamed in traditional bamboo baskets. Watching them puff up and turn glossy is fascinating, and the steaming process imparts a subtle aroma that enhances the flavor. The workshop provides all the necessary equipment, so you just focus on the process. After steaming, you get to taste your creations—soft, warm, and bursting with flavor.

Tasting and Takeaway

You’re encouraged to enjoy your baos on the spot, sharing in a convivial atmosphere, or to bring some home—a delicious souvenir of your Lyon adventure. Several reviews mention how satisfying it is to bite into their handmade baos, with one participant saying, “I never realized how much technique goes into making these buns, and now I feel confident to try them at home.”

The Value of the Experience

At $88 per person, this workshop offers excellent value for a comprehensive, hands-on culinary experience. You’re not only learning new skills but also gaining insight into Asian culture, plus the chance to enjoy a meal you crafted yourself. The cost covers all ingredients and equipment, removing any worries about hidden expenses or needing to bring anything extra.

What makes it especially worthwhile is how tailor-made it is for those who want an authentic, interactive moment rather than a passive demonstration. The small group size (max 10) ensures personalized attention, and the friendly atmosphere fosters genuine learning—you’re encouraged to ask questions and share tips.

The duration of 3.5 hours strikes a perfect balance—long enough to learn and enjoy without feeling rushed. Plus, the flexibility to adapt recipes for vegetarians makes it inclusive. The experience is suitable for those with some cooking interest, but no prior experience is necessary—Chef Ying’s clear instructions make it accessible for beginners.

Practical Details

The workshop takes place at Baotime restaurant, with the chef waiting inside. You’ll receive an SMS reminder about any food intolerances a few days before, so you can alert the team if needed. Note that gluten intolerance isn’t accommodated, so if that’s a concern, it’s worth considering other options.

The class is conducted in French and Chinese, adding an authentic touch to the instruction. The small group setting not only enhances interaction but also offers a more intimate experience. Cancellation policy is flexible—full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

How This Tour Compares to Other Lyon Experiences

While Lyon is famous for its culinary scene, this workshop offers something uniquely engaging: a chance to actively participate in creating a beloved Asian street food. Unlike typical food tours or tastings, you’ll leave with practical skills and your own baos—a delicious reminder of your Lyon trip.

Other experiences listed, such as city highlight tours or wine tastings, focus on tasting or sightseeing, but this one offers an immersive craft experience that can satisfy your curiosity about Asian cuisine while providing a tasty reward.

Final Thoughts

For anyone visiting Lyon who loves food or wants to learn new cooking skills, this experience is a must-try. It combines cultural discovery, hands-on activity, and delicious results in a friendly, well-organized setting. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned home chef, you’ll find value in the techniques taught and the chance to create something genuinely authentic.

It’s especially suited for small groups and curious travelers who enjoy interactive learning and are open to trying new cuisines. Plus, the option to make vegetarian baos makes this accessible to a wider audience.

If you’re after a meaningful culinary activity that combines culture, craftsmanship, and fun, then this bao-making workshop in Lyon checks all the boxes. It’s a great way to connect more deeply with Asian street food traditions, right in the heart of France.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes. The workshop is designed to be accessible, with clear guidance from Chef Ying, making it perfect for beginners who want to learn how to make baos from scratch.

Are vegetarian options available?
Absolutely. You can prepare vegetarian or vegan fillings, as the chef offers adaptable recipes to suit dietary preferences.

How long does the workshop last?
The experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, providing enough time to learn, cook, and enjoy your baos without feeling rushed.

Do I need to bring anything?
No. All ingredients and equipment are included. Just bring your enthusiasm and maybe an appetite for delicious, freshly steamed baos.

What languages are used during the workshop?
The class is conducted in French and Chinese, offering an authentic and inclusive learning environment.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility in planning.

This bao workshop in Lyon offers a genuine, enjoyable taste of Asian street food culture, combined with hands-on skills that you’ll carry home long after your trip ends. Whether you’re a foodie, a curious traveler, or someone eager to try something new, it’s a memorable experience worth considering during your time in Lyon.

You can check availability for your dates here: