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, always on the lookout for unique cultural experiences to complement our surf-centric lifestyle, were eager to dive into the world of Costa Rican cuisine. We were greeted by the warm smiles of Hubert Sr. and his son, Hubert Jr., who would be our guide for the evening.

The tour kicked off promptly at 4 PM, and we were led through the family garden, a vibrant tapestry of herbs and plants. Hubert Jr. encouraged us to engage our senses, inviting us to smell and taste various herbs, challenging us to identify them. It was a delightful game that brought us closer to the earth and the essence of Costa Rican flavors. With our baskets filled with fresh herbs, we moved on to the next part of our culinary adventure.

Crafting Flavors and Connections

Our next stop was the pavilion, where we were introduced to the art of making fresh sugarcane juice. The process was hands-on and invigorating, as we crushed the sugarcane and mixed in the herbs we had gathered. The result was a refreshing herbal sugarcane drink that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the farm—fresh, organic, and full of life.

With our thirst quenched, we ventured into the vegetable garden to collect the ingredients for our dinner. The vibrant colors and rich aromas of the vegetables were a testament to the farm’s dedication to organic farming. Back at the house, we met Hubert Jr.’s mother, who had everything prepped for our cooking session. Despite the language barrier, her warmth and hospitality transcended words, and with Hubert Jr.’s help, we communicated effortlessly.

A Feast of Culture and Community

In the kitchen, we rolled up our sleeves and got to work. We chopped, seasoned, and learned the secrets of making traditional Costa Rican chicken and rice. The highlight, however, was crafting our own tortillas from scratch—a skill that, much like surfing, requires a blend of technique and intuition. We also explored the versatility of plantains, slicing and frying them to golden perfection.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, we gathered around the table with Hubert Jr. and his mother, sharing stories and laughter over a meal we had all contributed to. The experience was more than just a cooking class; it was a window into the heart of Costa Rican culture, a reminder of the connections that food can foster.

Hubert Jr.’s passion for his heritage was infectious, and his knowledge of local wildlife added an unexpected layer to our tour. His enthusiasm and excellent English made the experience both educational and enjoyable. As we said our goodbyes, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to connect with such a welcoming family and to learn about the rich culinary traditions of Costa Rica.

For those seeking a taste of authentic Costa Rican culture, I can’t recommend this experience enough. It’s a chance to step away from the waves and immerse yourself in the flavors and stories of the land. Cooking Class