Mamas of Zanzibar - The Zanzibar Experience by Maskat — Attraction in Unguja

One of the most authentic Zanzibarian experiences!

Last week my husband and I had the pleasure of cooking with the Mamas of Zanzibar. It was an unforgettable experience - both for its authenticity as well as the warmth and love that the mamas bought to the cooking experience!

The day began with shopping for traditional ingredients at the local markets - coconuts, fruits, fresh fish and vegetables - followed by a hands on lesson in cleaning and preparing the ingredients, which also included making coconut milk from scratch - a messy but worthwhile experience :)

After a delicious breakfast, we marinated the vegetables and fish and were taught step by step how to cook each of the nine dishes that were to be our lunch for the day! My husband and I learnt a great deal about the carefully balanced flavours that make up Zanzibar cuisine and by the end of the day felt ready to cook our own dishes!

We also had the opportunity to learn about local Zanzibarian culture and tradition, as well as the changing attitudes towards gender norms and religious practices. The mamas were patient, kind and incredibly generous with their knowledge and we hope to...

Mamas of Zanzibar is a must if you are a traveler that wishes to immerse yourself in the local culture. I initially booked the cooking class as I liked the name of the class, but it ended up getting so much more. From the moment I arrived at the class I was greeted with such joy I knew I was in for a treat. We talked about the food and the ingredients and the techniques for cooking, but we also talked about our stories and hopes and our lives. I helped make the food, I ate the delicious food, and I didn't want it to be over, so it wasn't. We discussed over lunch that it would be great to have a "tour" of shopping with the Mamas, and so the next day, 2 of the women from my cooking class picked me up at my hotel and we had a wonderful shopping experience. And Maskat checked in to see how my snorkeling trip (which she arranged for me) went, and how my stay was in Nungwi, and where to stay when I was unhappy with the hotel I had booked (and she was right about the new hotel). And I gained more than a cultural experience, I made friends in...

Zanzibar Mamas culture cooking experience is highly recommended for those interested in exploring the authentic flavors and culinary traditions of Zanzibar. Participants have praised the experience for its immersive nature and the opportunity to learn from local chefs who are passionate about their cuisine.

What makes the Zanzibar Mamas culture cooking experience stand out is the emphasis on preserving the cultural heritage of Zanzibari cuisine. Participants not only learn about the recipes but also gain insights into the cultural significance and historical context of the dishes they prepare.

The Mamas are knowledgeable, patient, and eager to share their expertise. They provide step-by-step guidance, allowing even beginners to feel confident in their cooking abilities. Whether you have prior cooking experience or not, you'll find the experience accessible...