Market Visit with Vietnamese Culinary Class and Bicycle Tour

About

Your day commences with a visit to the renowned Hoi An Market, where, for approximately an hour and a half, you'll explore the array of fruits and vegetables commonly found in the Central Vietnam markets. I will share insights into the virtues of these natural products, detailing how the Vietnamese incorporate them not only into their cuisine but also as part of their health preservation practices. During this market excursion, you'll have the opportunity to sample a variety of local products, some of which may pleasantly surprise you.

Following our market experience, we'll board a boat from the market wharf, heading towards a small island in the Thu Bon River Delta. Nestled on this island is a quaint village that has preserved its authenticity over the years – my native village. Here, you'll have the privilege of meeting my grandmother, who still resides in our family's ancestral home.

This is where you'll engage in the preparation of rice cakes amidst the serene and cool garden. I'll share insights into the traditional cuisine of central Vietnam, guiding you through the preparation of four dishes that you'll later savor under the shade of coconut trees in the garden. As part of your culinary experience with My Grandma's Home Cooking, you will be presented with a complimentary copy of my Grandma's cookbook. This illustrated and colorful book not only encompasses detailed descriptions of all the recipes covered in your cooking class but also offers additional culinary insights and much more.

Post-meal, you'll embark on a leisurely bike ride through the authentic landscapes of Vietnam. Navigating through narrow pathways, you'll encounter traditional shipyards where wooden boats have been meticulously crafted for centuries. Discover the ancient techniques behind the production of woven cane mats and gain insights into rice field work, witness the art of rice wine-making, and much more. Your bike ride will lead you through breathtaking landscapes, allowing you to connect with the local people and experience the wonders of authentic Vietnam.

Menu

Main Dishes:

• Banh Xeo (small pancakes made from rice flour) by the way of Hoi An.
• Grilled pork skewers marinated in a special sauce.
• Green papaya salad.
• Fish prepared according to a local recipe

The vegetarian menu can be provided upon request for the main course.

• Banh xeo
• Grilled eggplant
• Papaya salad
• Tofu with mushrooms

Schedule

• Gather at our Heaven and Earth office. 
• Visit to Hoi An Market (1 hour and 30 minutes)
• Boat Journey to Thu Bon River Delta
• Introduction to Native Village and Grandmother's Home
• Hands-On Rice Cake Making
• Start cooking four Vietnamese delightful dishes.
• Tasting Session Under the Coconut Trees
• End of the experience and you will be back in Hoi An around 6:00 p.m. (5:30 p.m. in winter).

Note: The itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances.