The class will be conducted as an interactive virtual cook-along. All participants will be sent a list of ingredients and quantities needed for the recipe, the equipment needed for the class, and a Zoom meeting link. Classes usually range from 1.5-2 hours. The chef will then lead the group step by step through the recipes; stopping frequently to answer questions, share anecdotes, and provide feedback on your dishes!

* For King's students and staff: please use your King's ( kcl.ac.uk) email address to register for this event.

This class will be taught predominantly in Spanish with the help of an English speaking facilitator and will provide a unique experience to learn the secrets of cooking a range of Cuban dishes. Both the chef and the class facilitator can translate to English if needed so all levels are Spanish language comprehension are welcome.

We are running virtual cookery classes during the COVID-19 lockdown, while we are unable to run our regular in-person events, as a way to keep connected and to support our chefs.

Lola’s cook-along dishes will be Congrí (rice and bean) and Quimbombó (okra stew served with fried plantain)

Equipment List

• 1 Large bowl
• 1 Colander
• 2 Large frying pans
• 1 Medium frying pan
• 1 Large pot
• Kitchen paper and a plate
• Knife and chopping board

Ingredient List

• Black beans
• Bay leaf
• Rice
• Onion
• Bell pepper
• Garlic
• Ground cumin
• Sazon Goya
• Red wine (optional)
• Fresh coriander
• Okra
• Vinegar
• Vegetable oil
• Bell pepper
• Tomatoes
• Tomato passata
• White wine (optional)
• Plantain
• Salt and pepper

Message from Lola: “I am Lola and I am from Cuba. I like to make people laugh. I often can’t find the words in English, but I find a theatrical way to express myself especially when I’m teaching my recipes. I am passionate about Cuban food and I like teaching. I’m happy to speak Spanish in my classes and also teach some Cuban salsa moves. In Cuba I was a vet working with farm animals. I came to the UK 12 years ago to live with my daughter and her son. I only speak Spanish at home so I’ve never managed to learn English which feels very isolating when you live in a country where you can’t speak the language. I’m 72 years old, and I’ve decided I’m determined to try to learn English. Migrateful is helping me to do that because I get to practice English with my cookery students. I came from a very poor family in Cuba so I really value every meal I eat. One of my favourite dishes to teach is called “Congrí” which has black beans and white rice. This dish is about celebrating diversity in Cuba, when white and black people mix together.”