Kerala Pickles, Preserves and Chutneys - Farm Visit & Interactive Cooking

No Indian meal is complete without a little bit of pickle to add zing to the plate. Similarly, there are a host of different chutneys that form an essential part of Indian cuisine. Pickling and preserving is still an annual ritual for many Indian households, using local and seasonal fruits, vegetables, fish and meats.

About this workshop: This workshop focuses on the pickles, preserves and chutneys made in Kerala, specifically by the Syrian Christian community. They trace their origins to St. Thomas the Apostle, who is said to have come to the Mabalar Coast in the 1st century. Over time, the community developed distinct recipes and unique food traditions.

The workshop is conducted at a 2-acre farm, which grows rubber, coconut, nutmeg, coffee, pepper and banana. The farm is in a rural area, a 2-hour drive from Cochin, on the way to Thekkady. The hosts are a Syrian Christian family; they are knowledgeable foodies who enjoy hosting visitors and sharing authentic recipes.

How it works:

  • 30 min - Enjoy a guided walk around the family's farm, and learn about seasonal specialties.
  • 90 min - Introduction to Kerala pickles, preserves and chutneys. Two pickles and three chutneys will be demonstrated, and you will also see and taste a range of traditional dried preserves. If you like, you can participate hands-on. If you'd prefer to only watch and photograph, that is fine as well. While this is not a formal cooking class, you'll find yourself learning a lot because of the interactive and friendly nature of the session.

After the session, you can enjoy a meal with the family, including the condiments you've prepared.

Duration: 3 hours

Cost:
Rs 3250 per person for 5-8 persons
Rs 3500 per person for 3-4 persons
Rs 3750 per person for 2 persons
Rs 5000 for a solo traveller

Includes: Farm walk-through, workshop with all ingredients, lunch, bottled water and all taxes.

Excludes: Transfers from/to your hotel. Please ask us for a quote if you would like transfers.

Location: At a farm 2 hours' drive from Kochi, en route to Thekkady

How to Book: Please WhatsApp wa.me/+919867707414 or write to deepa@magictoursofindia.com.