London: Vegetarian Korean Cooking Class with Wine

Introduction

If you’re craving a taste of Korea but prefer to skip the meat, this Vegetarian Korean Cooking Class with Wine in London offers a unique blend of culinary education and cultural exploration. We’ve come across this experience and found it to be a well-rounded way to learn authentic recipes in a lively, supportive environment.

What makes this class stand out? Firstly, the hands-on approach means you’re not just watching a demonstration—you’re actively involved in preparing dishes like kimchi, Yachaejeon, and vegetarian Kimbap. Secondly, the focus on Korean seasonings and flavor balancing promises to elevate your home cooking. Lastly, the inclusion of wine or beer turns the session into a relaxed social experience.

One consideration? The group size is relatively intimate (6-12 participants), which is great for personalized attention, but might feel a bit crowded if you’re used to more private cooking classes. This experience suits anyone interested in Asian cuisine, eager to improve their knife skills, and looking to enjoy a fun, flavorful afternoon.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

Authentic skills: Master essential Korean cooking techniques from a professional chef.
Vegetarian focus: Learn to make classic dishes with plant-based ingredients.
Flavor insights: Discover the secrets behind Korean seasonings like gochujang and doenjang.
Inclusive environment: Small class size ensures personalized guidance.
Enjoyable atmosphere: Wine, soft drinks, and a shared meal make it more than just a cooking lesson.
Take-home recipes: Receive a digital pack to keep your new skills fresh.

Overview of the Experience

This 3-hour cooking class in South East England is hosted by School of Wok, nestled in a welcoming kitchen environment. Participants are led by an English-speaking head chef and an assistant, creating a friendly, approachable atmosphere where beginners and seasoned cooks alike can thrive.

The class is designed to be interactive and practical. You’re assigned your own chopping board and prep space, and cooking at the hob is done in pairs—making it easy to get involved without feeling overwhelmed. Alongside the culinary skills, you’ll enjoy unlimited soft drinks and a glass of wine or beer—a great way to relax and add a convivial touch.

The menu includes making kimchi from scratch, mastering knife skills with a Chinese cleaver, and learning how to create a traditional bibimbap served in a hot stone bowl. These dishes are chosen for their iconic status in Korean cuisine and their approachable nature for cooks of all levels.

What You Can Expect from the Class

Hands-On Kimchi Making

Kimchi is the cornerstone of Korean cuisine, and this class promises to teach you the secrets of fermentation. You’ll prepare vegetables, season them with Korean staples like gochugaru, garlic, and ginger, and learn how to store your kimchi for optimal fermentation. As one reviewer pointed out, “The kimchi from scratch was a highlight—I never knew it could be so satisfying to make my own.”

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Knife Skills and Ingredient Preparation

Handling a Chinese cleaver is often intimidating, but the chef’s tips make mastering precise cuts approachable. Proper technique is emphasized, which not only improves your cooking but also makes the prep safer and more efficient. Expect to practice chopping vegetables for your dishes, gaining confidence in handling ingredients.

Korean Seasonings and Flavor Building

The class introduces core flavors such as gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, doenjang, and gochugaru. Understanding how these ingredients work together is vital for balancing sweet, spicy, savory, and sour notes. The chef shares tips on how to incorporate these seasonings into your own kitchen.

Creating Vegetarian Kimbap and Yachaejeon

Two iconic dishes you’ll prepare are vegetarian Kimbap—Korean rice rolls filled with vegetables—and Yachaejeon, a savory vegetable pancake. Learning to layer ingredients and cook them properly means you can confidently recreate these at home for snacks or light meals.

Savoring the Dishes with Wine and Sharing

Once your dishes are cooked, you’ll sit down together to enjoy the fruits of your labor, complemented by a glass of wine or beer. This social element keeps the atmosphere relaxed and friendly, encouraging conversation and shared tips.

The Group and Atmosphere

The class takes place in a cozy space designed for comfort and interaction. Typically hosting 6 to 12 participants, the small group size allows the chef to give personalized feedback. Guests have described the environment as informal and encouraging, which is ideal for first-timers or those looking to refine their skills.

The instructors, including the head chef and assistant, are known for their friendly demeanor and willingness to share insider tips. Several reviews mention the professional yet approachable teaching style, making complex techniques seem manageable.

Price and Value

At $156 per person, this class offers a well-rounded package: three hours of hands-on instruction, all ingredients, equipment, apron hire, a digital recipe pack, and drinks. When considering the cost, think about the value of learning authentic recipes from a professional chef, as well as the enjoyable social setting.

Compared to other culinary experiences in London, this class provides a unique cultural insight into Korean cuisine, especially focusing on vegetarian options—something less common in typical cooking classes. Plus, you’ll leave with new skills and recipes that can impress friends and family or even elevate your daily cooking.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Arrival and Introduction

Guests are welcomed with a light drink—either soft drinks, tea, or coffee—before introductions. The chef explains what you’ll be making and shares a brief overview of Korean flavors.

Ingredient and Knife Skills Demonstration

The chef demonstrates proper knife techniques, emphasizing safety and precision. You learn how to handle a Chinese cleaver and practice slicing vegetables needed for kimchi, pancakes, and Kimbap.

Kimchi Preparation

This is the centerpiece of the class. You prepare the vegetables—often Napa cabbage or radish—and season them with traditional ingredients. The focus is on getting the fermentation right, with tips on storing and aging kimchi.

Dish Cooking

Next, you move onto the vegetarian bibimbap, cooking rice and assembling your hot stone bowl with vegetables and sauce. Simultaneously, you’ll prepare Yachaejeon, mixing and frying the vegetable pancake to crispy perfection.

Final Assembly and Tasting

Once dishes are ready, everyone gathers to taste their creations. The addition of wine or beer elevates the experience, making it feel more like a convivial gathering than just a class.

Wrap Up and Take-Home Recipes

Before leaving, you’ll receive a digital recipe pack with all the dishes prepared, so you can recreate your favorites at home. Many reviews highlight how straightforward the recipes are and how confident they make you feel.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Group Size

The class lasts 3 hours, a comfortable length that balances thorough instruction with enjoyment. The small group size ensures personalized attention, but if you prefer more privacy, consider booking with friends or a private session.

Accessibility and Dietary Needs

The class accommodates allergies and dietary restrictions where possible. For instance, Halal options are often available, and the chef is happy to suggest alternative ingredients if needed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your fee covers all ingredients, equipment, apron hire, drinks, and a digital recipe pack. The only extras are merchandise or cookbooks you may wish to purchase afterward.

Booking Flexibility

You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the class. This flexibility makes it easy to plan around travel schedules.

Final Thoughts

This Vegetarian Korean Cooking Class with Wine offers more than just a cooking lesson—it’s an experience that combines culinary skill-building with cultural discovery. The focus on vegetarian dishes makes it accessible and appealing to a broad audience, while the inclusion of wine or beer adds a relaxed, social vibe.

If you’re keen on exploring Korean cuisine, love hands-on activities, or simply want a fun way to spend an afternoon in London, this class is a fantastic choice. You’ll walk away with new recipes, knife skills, and a deeper understanding of Korean flavors—and maybe even a new appreciation for fermentation.

Overall, it’s a value-packed experience that balances education with enjoyment, perfect for foodies eager to expand their culinary repertoire in an authentic, engaging environment.

FAQs

What is included in the price of $156?
All ingredients, equipment, apron hire, three hours of instruction, unlimited soft drinks, wine or beer, and a digital recipe pack are included.

Is the class suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the entire menu is vegetarian, focusing on plant-based Korean dishes like kimchi, Kimbap, and vegetable pancakes.

Can I attend if I have food allergies?
The class can accommodate allergies and dietary needs where possible. If you have specific restrictions, it’s best to inform the organizers in advance.

How many people are in each class?
Typically, classes host 6 to 12 participants, allowing for personalized guidance and interaction.

What should I wear?
An apron is provided, but comfortable, casual clothing suitable for cooking is recommended.

Is there any shopping available after the class?
Merchandise and cookbooks are available for purchase post-class, but they are optional.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve and pay later, offering flexibility.

What dishes will I learn to make?
Kimchi, Yachaejeon (vegetable pancake), and vegetarian Kimbap. You’ll also learn essential Korean seasonings and techniques.

Is this experience good for beginners?
Absolutely. The chef’s friendly approach and clear instructions make it suitable for all skill levels, including first-timers.

This class is perfect for curious foodies, Korean cuisine lovers, and anyone wanting to sharpen their cooking skills in a lively, friendly setting. The combination of hands-on learning, cultural insight, and convivial atmosphere makes it a memorable and practical culinary adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: