Indian Cooking Masterclass in London

Discover an Authentic Indian Cooking Experience in London for Just $122

The Indian Cooking Masterclass in London offers a hands-on culinary journey with award-winning chef Monisha. At $122.07 per person, this 2.5-hour small-group class provides an engaging way to learn about Indian cuisine. The tour departs from Hounslow West Underground station, where you begin with a visit to a local Indian food shop to select ingredients. The class concludes with a delicious meal you help prepare, including Pulao Rice, a curry (chicken or chickpea), smoked cumin raita, and a vegetable side dish.

This experience is perfect for those eager to understand Indian cooking techniques directly from a professional chef. It appeals most to foodies who appreciate personal instruction, hands-on participation, and want to bring authentic Indian flavors into their own kitchens. While alcoholic beverages are not included, the focus on spice layering and ingredient selection makes this class invaluable for home cooks, regardless of skill level.

Key Points

• Small-group format with a maximum of 8 participants ensures personalized attention.
• Learn to pick quality ingredients during a visit to a local Indian food shop.
• Cook multiple dishes including Pulao Rice, curries, and vegetable sides.
• Led by Monisha, a world-renowned chef and author, known for her engaging teaching style.
• Includes recipe sheets and all ingredients needed for the class.
• Lunch and drinks are part of the experience, but alcoholic beverages are not included.

Starting Point at Hounslow West Underground Station

The tour begins at Hounslow West Station (Stop A), where you are met and led to the nearby Indian food shop. This initial stop is an excellent opportunity to learn how to identify the best ingredients for Indian cooking, such as squishy tamarind and fresh spices. The walk from the station to the shop takes just about five minutes, with no steps involved, making it accessible for most participants.

After shopping, the group strolls to the Cooking With Monisha kitchen, a spacious and welcoming space that serves as the cooking classroom. The convenience of the meeting point and the small group size contribute to a relaxed, immersive atmosphere.

Shopping for Authentic Indian Ingredients

The visit to the local Indian shop is a highlight, offering insights into ingredient quality and spice layering. Monisha demonstrates how to select fresh, high-quality spices and best produce for Indian recipes. Participants learn what to look for when shopping, such as squishy tamarind, which is recommended for flavor and texture.

This part of the experience prepares participants to replicate the dishes at home confidently. It emphasizes practical tips that improve ingredients’ impact on the final dishes, making it especially helpful for those new to Indian cuisine or looking to refine their shopping habits.

Cooking the Full Indian Meal with Monisha

Back at the Cooking With Monisha kitchen, the class shifts into active cooking. Participants prepare a full Indian meal by following Chef Monisha’s guidance. The cooking process involves lots of hands-on activity, ensuring everyone gets a chance to learn techniques like spice layering.

The menu includes Pulao Rice, a curry (either chicken or chickpea), smoked cumin raita, and a vegetable side dish. The dishes are designed to be tasty, straightforward, and reflective of authentic Indian flavors. The class encourages group cooking, fostering a lively and interactive environment.

To enhance the experience, participants are served Masala Chai during the cooking session, immersing them further in the cultural backdrop of Indian cuisine. All recipe sheets and ingredients are provided, ensuring that the learning extends beyond the class itself.

Learning from a World-Renowned Chef and Author

The instructor, Monisha, is celebrated for her knowledge, approachability, and passion for Indian food. She is praised repeatedly for her engaging teaching style and ability to explain complex techniques in simple terms. Her expertise covers not only recipes but also spice layering and ingredient selection, making her guidance invaluable.

Participants appreciate her friendly demeanor and the practical tips she shares, such as how to identify the best spices and ingredients. Monisha’s passionate storytelling about Indian cuisine adds depth to the class, transforming it into an educational and enjoyable experience.

The Meal You Help Create and Enjoy

The class concludes with everyone sitting down to enjoy the meal they have cooked. The dishes are praised for their flavorful depth and authenticity. The vegetarian options are as flavorful and satisfying as the meat-based curries, showcasing the versatility of Indian cuisine.

The lunch provides a delicious reward for the effort and a chance to savor the aromas of fresh spices and home-cooked flavors. Participants leave with not only new cooking skills but also with recipe sheets to recreate the dishes later at home.

Accessibility and Group Size

The entire experience is designed to be accessible; the walk from Hounslow West station involves no steps, and the small-group size of up to 8 ensures plenty of individual attention. The duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes allows for a comprehensive yet relaxed pace, suitable for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

The class runs Tuesday through Friday, from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM, and must be booked in advance, with bookings typically made around 48 days ahead.

Value and Cancellation Policy

The $122.07 price includes all ingredients, recipe sheets, lunch, and professional instruction. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for change of plans. While alcoholic beverages are not included, the overall value lies in learning practical skills and experiencing authentic Indian flavors in a friendly environment.

This tour is ideal for food lovers who want to understand Indian cuisine beyond recipes, and for home cooks eager to add spice layering techniques to their repertoire. The small group size and personalized guidance make it a memorable, practical experience.

Why This Indian Cooking Masterclass Stands Out

The focus on ingredient shopping and technique mastery makes this class special. Participants come away with not just recipes, but confidence in selecting ingredients and cooking Indian dishes authentically. Monisha’s reputation as a world-renowned chef and author assures a high-quality, knowledgeable instruction.

While the location at Hounslow West might be less central than other parts of London, the accessible, step-free walk and small group size compensate for this. This experience is perfect for culinary enthusiasts, beginners seeking authentic guidance, or those interested in Indian culture through its food.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the class last?
The class runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

What is included in the price?
All ingredients, recipe sheets, lunch, and tea or coffee are included. Alcoholic beverages are not.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Hounslow West Underground station (Stop A).

Is the experience suitable for all skill levels?
Yes, the class is designed for beginners and experienced cooks alike, with plenty of personal instruction.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience.

What dishes are cooked during the class?
Participants prepare Pulao Rice, a curry (chicken or chickpea), smoked cumin raita, and a vegetable side dish.

Is there a focus on shopping tips?
Absolutely, the visit to the local Indian shop teaches how to select the best ingredients.

What facilities are accessible?
The walk from the station involves no steps, making it accessible for most.

What are the opening hours?
The class is available Tuesday to Friday, from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM.

Who leads the class?
It is led by Monisha, a world-renowned chef and author known for her engaging style and deep knowledge.

This Indian Cooking Masterclass in London offers a rich, practical way to experience Indian cuisine firsthand, combining shopping insights, hands-on cooking, and authentic flavors — all in a friendly, accessible setting.