Le Tigre de Papier cooking class in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Although undoubtedly the main tourist attraction in Cambodia, the temples of Angkor are not the only great way to spend the day when in Siem Reap. Le Tigre de Papier Cooking Class in Siem Reap is an amazing culinary experience in which you select a main, entree and desert from the menu of this top class restaurant, and then are taught how to cook it yourself.
Starting out:
Upon arrival at the restaurant on the famous Pub Street, you will meet your fellow kitchen mates for the day and be introduced to the chef that will be your instructor. After a short walk you enter the Psa Chas market and are shown around the cornucopia of fresh vegetables and fruits within. Along the way you will be told which ingredients will be used in the dish you have chosen to cook, as well as some interesting facts about traditional Cambodian delicacies. Although 1 hour is allocated to this market visit, it was more like 10 minutes.
In the kitchen:
Once you are back in the kitchen you will begin preparing your meal before cooking. Starting with the entree I chose a fresh, green mango salad. With excellent skill and patience the head chef showed me how to cut, dice and slice all the necessary ingredients until I moved onto my main. I was particularly excited for this, as I had chosen Fish Amok, the traditional dish of Cambodia. Feeling like a true Cambodian, I crushed up the turmeric, ginger, garlic, onion and lemon grass that makes up the Amok paste. I didn’t actually get to choose my desert, however the caramelised passionfruit coated banana did not disappoint.
Time to eat!
After completing all the cooking, it was time to eat. I’m not sure how they did it but the chef at Le Tigre de Papier somehow helped me cook a delicious meal. I was transformed from someone who’s main specialty was toast and occasionally spag bowl, into a traditional Cambodian chef. All the meals were excellent and a true tasting of Cambodian cuisine. For just $15 you get the full class and lunch for the day. Money well spent if you ask me.
Want more info on travelling Asia? check out my Vietnam travel tips here.
If you have any questions about the cooking class or Cambodia, let me know in the comments below.
Don’t stop wandering.