ASHFORD EVENTS FIELD GUIDE
Sichuan Flavours in Ashford: A hands-on evening of fiery, tongue-tingling classics
A 2.5-hour, adult-only cookery course that teaches authentic Sichuan techniques and recipes, useful for anyone wanting to reproduce bold, málà-forward dishes at home.
Sichuan Flavours in Ashford: A hands-on evening of fiery, tongue-tingling classics.
Set in Ashford with an emphasis on bold, aromatic spice, Sichuan Flavours is a hands-on evening course that plunges participants into the punchy chilli, fragrant spices and tongue-tingling málà sensations of Sichuan cuisine. The session is social and interactive: you work in pairs to prepare a slate of authentic dishes from scratch, then sit down to a fiery feast of your own making.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Master Sichuan’s signature spice and málà balance
Learn to balance heat, sweetness and umami across classic dishes — from dan dan noodles to chilli oil wontons — and taste the region’s iconic tongue-tingling profile.
Hands-on techniques you can use at home
This practical evening course focuses on traditional cooking techniques and real, repeatable recipes so you leave confident to recreate the dishes in your own kitchen.
A communal, from-scratch dinner
Work with a partner, cook a variety of dishes during the session and enjoy a shared, fiery meal — with leftovers provided in takeaway containers if you want them.
What the day feels like
What the evening feels like
The class unfolds as a focused, social evening: a short welcome, paired cooking at fully equipped stations using provided ingredients, and a communal tasting of the dishes you’ve prepared. Expect spirited, hands-on instruction on how to produce dishes such as Sichuan Chicken, Kung Pao Prawns, dan dan noodles and spicy wontons, with tea and coffee available during the session.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is an evening, 2.5-hour cookery course suitable for adults only.
You do not need to bring ingredients or equipment; everything is provided. Wear flat, sensible shoes and clothing you don’t mind getting splattered.
There is free parking on site and tea and coffee are provided; drinks and shop items are available to purchase during the session on a simple tab system.
Menus emphasise seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and are best for flexible, adventurous eaters; notify any allergies or dietary requirements at booking and contact the operator if unsure.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Who can attend this course?
This is an adult-only lesson and is not suitable for anyone under 18 years of age.
What is included in the course fee?
The course includes tea and coffee, all ingredients and equipment, and takeaway containers for leftovers.
Can friends or family watch the class?
No — only paid guests actively participating in a lesson are permitted on site while classes are in progress; there is no waiting area for spectators.
Are drinks available during the session?
Tea and coffee are included; other drinks and any shop items can be ordered during the session and paid for on a tab at the end.
Can you accommodate dietary requirements or allergies?
The school asks that dietary requirements and allergies are entered at the time of booking; due to the nature of the events they can only accommodate limited dietary requests on most courses and advise contacting them in advance if unsure.
Do I need to bring anything?
No — all ingredients and equipment are provided. You should wear flat, sensible shoes and clothing you don’t mind getting splashed.
Is parking available?
Yes — there is free parking on site.