Matera: Pasta Cooking Class Old Farmer Style in a Sassi Cellar

Authentic Matera Pasta-Making in a Historic Sassi Cellar for $91

This 3-hour pasta cooking class in Matera, Italy, offers a hands-on journey into traditional southern Italian cuisine. For $91.04 per person, participants learn to craft pasta by hand in a Sassi cellar carved from ancient stone, guided by a skilled local chef. The class is highly personalized, with a maximum of 8 travelers, making it ideal for small groups seeking an immersive culinary experience. The tour departs from Recinto Santa Maria at 10:30 am, and since it’s booked on average 50 days in advance, it’s a popular choice for those eager to explore authentic regional flavors.

While the experience is praised for its warm guides, delicious food, and cultural depth, there is a caveat: poor signage can make the meeting point tricky to find, and cancellation requires 24 hours’ notice for a full refund. This class is perfect for anyone interested in learning traditional pasta techniques and enjoying a historic setting with a local touch.

Key Points

• Hands-on pasta-making with a professional chef
• Authentic experience in a Sassi cave cellar
• Local ingredients used for preparing bruschetta, cialledda salad, and pasta
• Private class offering personalized attention
• Includes a tasting of your homemade dishes in a historic environment
• Book well in advance to secure a spot, as it’s popular

The Unique Setting in Matera’s Sassi Caves

This tour takes place inside a cellar carved out of ancient stone in Matera’s Sassi district, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The atmosphere enhances the authenticity of the experience, providing a once-in-a-lifetime backdrop for your culinary adventure. The stone walls and historic ambiance make the session more than just a cooking class—it’s a chance to connect with the region’s heritage.

The location at Recinto Santa Maria serves as a practical starting point, though some reviews highlight difficult signage when trying to find the exact spot. Once inside, the cozy, timeless space lends itself to learning and sharing in a relaxed environment.

Learning to Make Pasta the Old Farmer Way

Participants knead, shape, and roll pasta by hand, guided by a professional chef experienced in traditional techniques. This private class emphasizes authentic methods, such as shaping ear-shaped pasta and crafting Strascinate al Tegamino, a classic dish rooted in farmer family traditions. The fresh ingredients used are sourced locally, ensuring each dish reflects regional flavors.

The emphasis is on engagement and craftsmanship, with the chef sharing generations-old secrets. The hands-on approach means you’ll actively participate rather than watch passively, gaining confidence in your pasta skills.

The Culinary Highlights: Bruschetta, Cialledda, and Pasta

After mastering the pasta, the class shifts towards preparing accompaniments, including bruschetta and cialledda salad. These are regional staples featuring fresh, local ingredients. The culinary journey culminates in you savoring your homemade pasta and toppings in the historic cellar, creating a delicious, authentic meal.

The food is praised for its natural flavors, with many reviews highlighting the tastiness of both the dishes prepared and the experience of eating them in such a unique setting. Participants often remark on the generous portions and the joy of sharing a homemade meal with others.

The Hosts: Guides Who Keep Traditions Alive

The guides and hosts, including names like Cozumel and Lorenzo, are noted for their friendly, knowledgeable manner. They are passionate about preserving Matera’s culinary traditions and actively share stories about the culture, history, and everyday life in the village.

Many reviews emphasize the personalized attention from the small group size, which allows for more interaction and tailored guidance. Their warm personalities and enthusiasm contribute to a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Practicalities: Meeting Point, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour begins at Recinto Santa Maria in Matera at 10:30 am. It is designed for up to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience. The activity includes a tour of the cooking space and personal attention from the chef.

The class is near public transportation, making it relatively easy to access, but some reviews indicate that finding the exact location can be challenging due to poor signage. The tour accepts service animals but is not recommended for celiacs, which is important to consider for guests with specific dietary restrictions.

Pacing, Duration, and What’s Included

Spanning approximately 3 hours, the class balances demonstration, hands-on cooking, and tasting. The timing is leisurely, allowing participants to learn at a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. The experience ends back at the meeting point, giving you time to explore or continue your day in Matera.

The price includes all ingredients, instruction, and the meal prepared during the class. Given the quality of the ingredients and the personalized instruction, many find the cost justified for the authentic culinary experience.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Tips

The tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is valuable given the popularity of the experience. To secure a spot, it’s advisable to book well ahead, especially during peak travel seasons, as the class is booked an average of 50 days in advance.

Travelers should arrive on time, as late arrivals may not be accommodated without penalty. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience but also makes early booking essential.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Cooking Classes in Matera

The most distinctive feature of this tour is its setting inside a Sassi cave, offering a historic ambiance that few other classes can match. The focus on traditional farmer-style pasta adds an authentic, regional touch that appeals to foodies eager to connect with local culture.

The personalized guidance from local hosts and the opportunity to prepare a complete meal with fresh, local ingredients make this experience more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a cultural exchange. However, potential participants should be prepared for the small group format and some logistical challenges like finding the meeting point.

Final Thoughts: An Authentic Culinary Experience in Matera

This Matera pasta-making class offers an authentic taste of regional tradition in a stunning historic setting. The small-group format, friendly hosts, and delicious food attract those interested in learning traditional techniques and experiencing local culture firsthand.

While finding the meeting point may require some effort, the memorable ambiance and hands-on approach make it a worthy pursuit for food lovers and history buffs alike. This class is best suited for those who appreciate intimate experiences and authentic regional cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
The data does not specify dietary accommodations, but the focus is on traditional pasta and local ingredients. Contact the provider in advance if special dietary needs are necessary.

How physically demanding is the class?
The activity involves kneading, shaping, and rolling pasta, which requires some manual effort, but it is generally accessible to most participants.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Italian?
The tour is conducted in English or by guides who are skilled communicators—language barriers are unlikely to be an issue.

What should I bring or wear?
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be working with flour and dough.

Is the experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the small group size and hands-on nature make it most suitable for older children and families with an interest in cooking.

What’s included in the price?
All ingredients, instruction from the chef, and the meal prepared during the class are included in the $91.04 price.

How do I cancel if I change my mind?
Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled time. Be sure to cancel promptly to receive a full refund.

Are there options for people with gluten allergies?
The tour is not recommended for celiacs; gluten-free options are not specified, so checking with the provider beforehand is advised.