A Warm Welcome to Paraiso Orgánico

As the sun began its descent over the lush landscape of La Fortuna, I found myself at the gates of Paraiso Orgánico, a charming organic farm nestled in the heart of Costa Rica. My wife and I were greeted by the warm smiles of Hubert Sr. and his son, Hubert Jr., who would be our guide for the evening. The air was thick with the scent of fresh earth and the promise of a culinary adventure.

Hubert Jr. led us on a tour of their family garden, a vibrant tapestry of herbs and plants. With each step, he encouraged us to engage our senses, handing us various herbs to smell and taste, challenging us to identify them. It was a delightful game that brought us closer to the ingredients we would soon use in our meal. As we wandered through the garden, Hubert Jr. shared stories of his family’s journey from traditional farming to organic practices, a decision driven by a desire for better health and sustainability.

Crafting Flavors from the Earth

With our baskets brimming with fresh herbs, we made our way to a rustic pavilion where the magic of sugarcane awaited. Under Hubert Jr.’s enthusiastic guidance, we crushed the sugarcane, extracting its sweet nectar. We then infused it with the herbs we had gathered, creating a refreshing herbal sugarcane drink that was as invigorating as the ocean breeze.

The experience was a reminder of the simple joys of life, much like catching the perfect wave on a sun-drenched afternoon. After a quick cleanup, we ventured into the vegetable garden, selecting the freshest produce for our dinner. The vibrant colors and crisp textures of the vegetables were a testament to the care and dedication of the family who tended to them.

A Taste of Costa Rican Tradition

Back at the house, we were welcomed by Hubert Jr.’s mother, a kind woman whose warmth transcended language barriers. With her guidance, we chopped and prepared the ingredients for a traditional Costa Rican meal. We learned the art of making chicken and rice, seasoned to perfection, and the delicate process of crafting tortillas by hand.

As we cooked, Hubert Jr. shared his knowledge of local wildlife, pointing out various birds and animals that called the farm home. His passion for his heritage was infectious, and it was clear that this was more than just a cooking class; it was an invitation to experience the heart of Costa Rican culture.

Dinner was a communal affair, with Hubert Jr. and his mother joining us at the table. The conversation flowed as easily as the waves I chase, and the meal was a celebration of flavors and stories. As we savored each bite, I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to the land and the people who had welcomed us so warmly.

This cooking class was more than just a culinary lesson; it was a journey into the soul of Costa Rica, a reminder of the importance of community, tradition, and the simple pleasures of life. If you find yourself in La Fortuna, I highly recommend immersing yourself in this unforgettable experience.