Cuisine of Central Mexico Central Mexico: San Miguel de Allende Excursions Main | Cooking Programs | Special Interest Before the Spaniards descended upon the New World, the Mexican indigenous people had an extensive and sophisticated cuisine based on corn, squash, tomatoes, chiles, avocados, beans, fruit, wild game and the famous Mexican chocolate. With the arrival of the Spaniards, sugar, flour, saffron, rice, potatoes and a variety of spices were introduced, the result being a blend of indigenous and European ingredients resulting in the traditional Central Mexican cuisine of today. Learn to prepare dishes such as Chicken with Mole Guanajuato style, Enchiladas, Chiles en Nogada, Cilantro Cream Soup or Tequila Mousse at Dos Casas in the charming art colony of San Miguel de Allende. The three hour cooking lessons, accompanied by a Margherita and appetizers, begin in the early afternoon, and students enjoy what they have prepared for lunch. Included is a two hour private walking tour of San Miguel, and free time to explore the many shops showcasing superb handicrafts, art, jewelry and decorative items. Day 1: Arrival at hotel. Day 2: Breakfast, followed at 10:00 a.m. by a walking tour of San Miguel. The first lesson will begin at 12:30 p.m. and will consist of soup and a main course, which you will then enjoy for lunch. Day 3: After breakfast, the rest of the morning is at leisure. At 12:30 p.m. the second cooking lesson will consist of preparing a main course and dessert, followed by lunch. Day 4: Breakfast and departure. Package Includes: Rate: Three nights in a Deluxe Suite Full Mexican breakfast daily Private walking tour of San Miguel Two cooking classes Complimentary Margherita and appetizer during cooking class Two lunches English translation of lessons Copy of recipes in English Complimentary parking Tax and service NOTE: for arrival on a Sunday, Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday only. Double Occupancy: $ 594 per person Single Occupancy: $ 980 Additional Night: $ 275 single or double occupancy Sunday through Wednesday nights only Valid: January 3 - December 20, 2008 excluding March 16 - 23 Minimum two persons required.