Cooking classes: benefits, types and how to learn for free

People often think cooking classes are only for the culinary elite or people who have a lot of free time and are looking for a hobby. But the truth is, they're for anyone who wants to spice up their life, learn something new, and enjoy a good meal (or three). Plus, there's the bonus of getting to devour your homework.

In this article, we’ll talk you through the benefits of taking a cooking class, the main types of cooking classes available, the most popular cooking class themes and cuisines and what to expect in a typical cooking class.

And there's also a bonus tip: we’ll tell you all about how you can learn to cook in practice by doing a work exchange in many different locations in the US and around the world. In this type of experience, not only do you not have to pay for classes, but you’ll get perks like free accommodation, meals etc.

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Benefits of taking a cooking class

Now that you know the main types of cooking classes available, let's talk about why you should consider taking one. The benefits are numerous (and delicious).

Improve your cooking skills

The most obvious benefit of taking a cooking class is that you'll walk away with improved culinary skills. Whether you're a total beginner or a seasoned home cook, there's always something new to learn in the kitchen. In a cooking class, you'll learn proper techniques from experienced instructors.

You'll discover time-saving tips and tricks and get hands-on practice with new skills like knife work and sauce making. Plus, you'll have the chance to ask questions and get personalized feedback to help you improve.

Expand your culinary knowledge

Cooking classes aren't just about learning new techniques - they're also an opportunity to expand your culinary knowledge and discover new ingredients, flavors, and cuisines. In a good cooking class, you'll learn about the history and cultural significance of the dishes you're preparing.

You'll discover how to select and use unique ingredients and explore flavor combinations you may have never tried before. For example, in an Indian cooking class you might learn about the regional variations in Indian cuisine, the health benefits of spices like turmeric and cumin, and how to make a perfect curry from scratch.

Learn healthy cooking techniques

If you're looking to make healthier food choices, a cooking class can be a game-changer. Many classes focus on healthy cooking techniques and nutritious ingredients, giving you the tools you need to prepare delicious, good-for-you meals at home.

You might take a class on plant-based cooking, where you'll learn to incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet. Or maybe a class on healthy grilling, where you'll discover lean proteins and flavorful marinades to keep things light and tasty.

Studies have shown that home cooking is associated with healthier eating patterns and better diet quality. By learning healthy cooking skills, you'll be setting yourself up for success in reaching your nutrition goals.

Enhance your social life

Cooking classes aren't just about the food - they're also a fantastic way to meet new people and enhance your social life. Whether you take a class with friends or sign-up solo, you'll have the chance to connect with fellow food lovers in a fun, relaxed setting.

Many cooking classes include a shared meal at the end, where you can enjoy the fruits of your labor together and chat about your experience. It's a great opportunity to make new friends, network with like-minded individuals, and maybe even find your next dinner party guests.

Plus, the skills you learn in a cooking class can spill over into your social life in other ways. Impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary prowess by hosting a dinner party or whipping up a gourmet meal for a special occasion.

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Main types of cooking classes

With so many cooking classes out there, it can be tough to know where to start. So we’ll start by breaking down the main types of cooking classes available.

Online cooking classes

Online cooking classes have exploded in popularity, and for good reason. They let you learn from the comfort of your own kitchen, on your own schedule. You can find virtual cooking classes on just about any cuisine or technique imaginable, taught by expert chefs from around the world.

Some of our favorite platforms for online cooking classes include MasterClass, where you can learn from culinary legends like Gordon Ramsay, and America's Test Kitchen Online Cooking School, which offers in-depth courses on everything from knife skills to pasta making.

In-person cooking classes

While online classes are convenient, there's something special about learning in a real-life kitchen alongside other passionate home cooks. In-person cooking classes give you hands-on experience with expert guidance, plus the chance to connect with like-minded foodies.

You can find in-person cooking classes at culinary schools, restaurants, and even some grocery stores. 

Specialized cooking classes

If you're looking to dive deep into a specific cuisine or technique, specialized cooking classes are the way to go. These focused classes let you immerse yourself in the flavors and traditions of a particular culinary style. Some examples of specialized cooking classes include:

• Thai cooking classes that teach you to balance sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors
• Pasta making classes where you learn to craft fresh noodles from scratch
• Sushi rolling classes that reveal the secrets of perfect maki and nigiri

Cooking classes for beginners

If you're new to the kitchen, cooking classes for beginners can give you the confidence and skills you need to start whipping up delicious meals at home. These classes typically cover essential techniques like knife skills, basic cooking methods, and how to follow recipes.

One of the best things about beginner cooking classes is the supportive, low-pressure environment. You'll be surrounded by other newbies, all learning and making mistakes together. And with an experienced instructor leading the way, you'll be amazed at how quickly you progress.

Advanced cooking classes

For seasoned cooks looking to take their skills to the next level, advanced cooking classes offer the chance to learn cutting-edge techniques and complex dishes. These classes often focus on a particular advanced skill set, like molecular gastronomy or advanced pastry arts.

Advanced classes are typically taught by experienced chefs with years of professional experience. They're a great way to challenge yourself, expand your culinary horizons, and maybe get good jobs in the area.

Popular cooking class themes and cuisines

One of the best things about cooking classes is the sheer variety of themes and cuisines available. No matter what kind of food you're into, there's a class out there for you. Here are some of the most popular cooking class themes and cuisines to explore.

French cooking classes

French cuisine is renowned for its sophistication, technique, and use of luxurious ingredients. In a French cooking class, you might learn to make a classic coq au vin, whip up a perfect hollandaise sauce, or create a show-stopping soufflé.

Many French cooking classes focus on the foundations of the cuisine, like knife skills, stock-making, and pastry techniques. By mastering these building blocks, you'll be well on your way to creating impressive French dishes at home.

Italian cooking classes

Italian cuisine is beloved around the world for its simple, fresh ingredients and bold flavors. In an Italian cooking class, you might learn to make homemade pasta from scratch, simmer a perfect tomato sauce, or create a classic tiramisu.

Our tip is to look for classes that focus on regional Italian specialties, like Tuscan cooking or Sicilian street food. You'll discover the unique ingredients and techniques that define each region's culinary traditions.

Asian cooking classes

Asian cuisine is incredibly diverse, encompassing everything from spicy Thai curries to delicate Japanese sushi. In an Asian cooking class, you might learn to balance the sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine, or master the art of Chinese dumpling making.

You can also look for classes that focus on a specific Asian cuisine or region, like Vietnamese street food or Korean barbecue. You'll learn about the unique ingredients, techniques, and cultural traditions that define each cuisine.

Vegetarian and vegan cooking classes

With more and more people embracing plant-based diets, vegetarian and vegan cooking classes have become increasingly popular. In these classes, you'll learn to create satisfying, flavorful meals using fruits, vegetables, grains, and plant-based proteins.

You might take a class on vegan baking, where you'll learn to create delicious desserts without eggs or dairy. Or maybe a class on vegetarian Indian cooking, where you'll discover how to use spices and herbs to create complex, aromatic dishes.

Studies have shown that following a vegetarian or vegan diet can have numerous health benefits, from lowering blood pressure to reducing the risk of certain cancers. By learning to cook delicious plant-based meals, you'll be taking a step towards a healthier lifestyle.

Baking and pastry classes

For those with a sweet tooth, baking and pastry classes are a dream come true. In these classes, you'll learn the science and art of creating delectable baked goods and desserts. 

You might take a class on French pastry, where you'll learn to make delicate macarons and buttery croissants. Or maybe a class on artisan bread baking, where you'll discover the secrets to creating a perfect crusty loaf.

Baking and pastry classes often focus on precision and technique, so be prepared to measure ingredients carefully and follow recipes closely. But the end result - a beautiful, delicious treat made with your own hands - is well worth the effort.

What to expect in a typical cooking class

If you've never taken a cooking class before, you might be wondering what to expect. While every class is different, most follow a similar format designed to maximize your learning and enjoyment. Here's what you can expect in a typical cooking class.

Introduction and overview

Most cooking classes begin with an introduction from the instructor, who will welcome you to the class and give an overview of the day's menu and objectives. This is a great time to introduce yourself to your classmates and get a sense of everyone's skill level and experience.

The instructor will typically go over any safety guidelines or kitchen rules, as well as any necessary equipment or ingredients you'll be using. They may also provide some background information on the cuisine or techniques you'll be learning.

Hands-on cooking experience

The bulk of most cooking classes is dedicated to hands-on cooking time. This is your chance to get in the kitchen and start preparing dishes under the guidance of your instructor. Depending on the class format, you may work individually, in pairs, or as part of a team.

Your instructor will typically demonstrate each step of the recipe, then give you time to practice on your own. They'll be available to answer questions, offer tips and feedback, and help troubleshoot any issues that arise.

Hands-on cooking time is often the most engaging and memorable part of a cooking class. It's a chance to learn by doing, and to gain confidence in your abilities as you create delicious dishes from scratch.

Tasting and evaluation

Once the cooking is complete, it's time for the best part: tasting your creations. Most cooking classes include time at the end to sit down and enjoy the dishes you've prepared. This is a great opportunity to evaluate your work and get feedback from your instructor and classmates.

You can discuss what worked well, what you might do differently next time, and how the flavors and textures of the dish came together. Tasting your food is also a chance to appreciate the fruits of your labor and celebrate your accomplishments. 

You'll leave the class not only with new skills and knowledge, but with a sense of pride in what you've created.

Q&A with the instructor

Many cooking classes conclude with a Q&A session with the instructor. This is your chance to ask any lingering questions, get advice on adapting recipes to your own tastes or dietary needs, or learn more about the instructor's culinary background and experience.

Some instructors may also provide additional resources, like recipe booklets or online videos, to help you continue learning and practicing at home. They may also offer recommendations for further reading or other classes to take to build on your newfound skills.

Learn how to cook in practice by volunteering

What about going beyond the typical cooking class setting and gaining hands-on experience in cooking and food preparation? You can develop your culinary skills while traveling the world through Worldpackers, a work exchange platform that offers many opportunities for volunteers to work in hostels, eco-lodges, restaurants, and community kitchens across the globe.

By participating in these work exchanges, volunteers not only learn new recipes and cooking techniques but also immerse themselves in the local cuisine and culinary traditions of their host country.

It’s super easy: simply create a profile on the Worldpackers platform, highlighting your interests and any relevant experience (which doesn’t need to be professional). By selecting the “Kitchen and bar tasks” option under the filter “How do you help”, you can browse a variety of cooking-related volunteer opportunities and apply to those that match your preferences.

Throughout the exchange, you’ll usually receive guidance from experienced chefs and cooks, allowing you to improve your culinary skills. In return for your work, you’ll receive accommodation, and often meals, making it a cost-effective way to travel and learn. This practical approach not only enhances cooking abilities but also offers a unique cultural exchange.

Check out some of the opportunities available for volunteering with kitchen tasks:

• Learn to cook Mexican food in a restaurant in Puebla, Mexico

“Volunteering in Puebla, Mexico, making tortas was a joyous journey. The owners, incredibly kind, not only shared culinary expertise but also took me out to drink, facilitating meaningful connections with the locals. These personal touches enhanced the overall experience. The program provided insights into Puebla's culture. Personal growth, meaningful contributions, and connecting with locals made this a transformative experience. Highly recommended for those seeking a volunteer opportunity.”, said Alex, a former volunteer from the Netherlands.

• Cook traditional Moroccan food and experience the Sahara Desert

“Learn how to cook tajines, gamilla, couscous and other traditional Moroccan dishes, and we will all cook together for the volunteers and for ourselves :) Every day one or two people can cook, and each day/each meal we will shift. We cook three meals a day and eat all together. During cold nights we eat inside, warm nights outside while enjoying the sunset! Besides cooking, volunteers will help in other general work”, explains the host of this farmstay opportunity in Tagounite, Morocco.

• Volunteer at a restaurant and live with a local family in Malaysia

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to Lili, our incredible chef and volunteer coordinator. The experience under her guidance has been transformative. Lili taught us local recipes, shared her culture, and showed us the best places to eat in Kuala Lumpur. Her passion for hosting and the importance of hosting with love is contagious. I highly recommend this volunteer program. Thank you, Lili, for all the love and wisdom you've shared”, said Sebastian Andre, from Chile, who volunteered there 1 month ago.

• Help a non-profit project and learn how to cook African food in Kenya

“We kindly request volunteers who are passionate about cooking and eager to learn about African cuisine to join us in this endeavor. By lending your time and culinary skills, you will not only contribute to the well-being of the children but also gain valuable knowledge about the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Africa”, says the host of this project.

• Help in the kitchen for a unique vegetarian experience in Peru

“At Chacra Corazon, our green paradise near Lima, we are looking for culinary talent to join our team. While our amazing volunteers till the land in the morning, we want to offer unique meals at breakfast and midday”, says the host.

• Help in the kitchen of a lunch program for people in need in Germany

“This was my first work exchange experience, and I couldn't have chosen better. I had the best time at the organization! The people that work there are really friendly and is always up to help in whatever you need (thank you Yannik, Kai and Mary!). The work is socially relevant, and it was great to help the community. The hours are respected, and the job is not too hard, they teach you what you need to do. I always felt safe and welcomed there and had the opportunity to talk with the locals and learn the language. I would recommend this place for a volunteer work!”, said Giovanna, from Brazil, who volunteered there through Worldpackers.

• Help make veggie/vegan meals at an eco-village in Drake Bay, Costa Rica

This host needs help preparing meals for their volunteers and guests. They are looking for volunteers who are talented cooks wanting to get experience making veggie/vegan farm-to-table food. In this case, they prefer people with some experience in the restaurant industry.

• Be part of a permaculture project in Byron Shire, Australia

“Are you passionate about culinary and love to push the boundaries of taste and presentation? Do you dream of crafting dishes that transcend the ordinary and ignite buds with excitement? The help we need is to create snacks and lunch (5-7 serves) 4 days a week. This also includes harvesting and general cleaning tasks”, explains the host of this work exchange experience located in a beautiful rainforest setting.

When you step into a cooking class, you're not just learning recipes, you're entering a culinary playground. It's a space where creativity knows no bounds, experimentation is encouraged, and laughter is the secret ingredient.

If you’re thinking about signing up for a cooking class or volunteering with kitchen tasks, don’t wait any longer. Look for the best cooking classes near you or create your free profile on Worldpackers right now.

Who knows - you might just discover your inner chef. And if not, at least you'll make friends, get out of your comfort zone and have some great stories to tell.