Cooking School

An immersive culinary experience in the City of Springs where you learn authentic Shandong cuisine techniques

Cooking School

Key Information

Cuisine Type

Shandong Lu Cuisine

Class Size

Small groups 6-12 people

Language Support

English Chinese Japanese

Skill Level

All levels welcome

Seasonal Focus

Uses fresh seasonal ingredients

Cultural Elements

Traditional courtyard setting

Signature Dishes

Sweet and Sour Carp Braised Sea Cucumber

Local Connection

Works with local farmers and fishermen

Located in the heart of Jinan known as the City of Springs this cooking school offers visitors a unique opportunity to dive deep into Shandong cuisine one of Chinas eight great culinary traditions Shandong cuisine also known as Lu cuisine is characterized by its emphasis on fresh ingredients particularly seafood from the nearby Yellow Sea and its light savory flavors that highlight natural tastes rather than heavy seasoning The cooking school provides hands-on classes taught by experienced local chefs who share centuries-old techniques passed down through generations Youll learn about the importance of broth making in Shandong cuisine the art of stir-frying at high temperatures and the delicate balance of flavors that makes this regional cuisine so distinctive The experience goes beyond just cooking it includes visits to local markets to select fresh ingredients understanding the cultural significance of different dishes and learning about the historical development of Shandong cuisine which has influenced imperial cooking throughout Chinese history The school is situated in a traditional courtyard setting with modern kitchen facilities creating a perfect blend of old and new

Things to Do

  • Participate in a hands-on cooking class learning to make classic Shandong dishes
  • Visit a local market with the chef to select fresh seasonal ingredients
  • Learn about the history and cultural significance of Shandong cuisine
  • Master traditional cooking techniques like high-heat stir-frying and broth making
  • Enjoy the dishes youve prepared in a communal dining experience
  • Receive a recipe booklet to recreate the dishes at home