Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico - Whenever I visit a foreign destination the first thing I do is look for cooking classes. I find that the best way to extend the pleasures of the trip is to learn to cook their cuisine so that I can share this knowledge with my family and friends whenever I feel the need. Plus it makes you more rounded and I don't mean body wise, but to be able to cook in many languages, not just "Old Americana."

During your visit to Puerto Vallarta why not join Dolores at Essence of Cuisine to learn how to make Chicken Tamales topped with salsa de guacamole and sour cream? These tamales are made the quick and easy way. They are not wrapped in corn husks but Saran wrap, and the filling is made in your food blender and steamed in a bamboo steamer for just 20 minutes. They take less than an hour to make.

The next course will be Chilaquiles in a homemade tomatillo sauce with chicken and 2 types of cheeses, with flavors that burst in your mouth, guaranteed to be the best chilaquiles you have ever tasted. Additionally we'll have with spicy Mexican beans and yams with green chiles and orange saucespicy Mexican beans and yams with green chiles and orange sauce.

For dessert, experience mango with Mexican chocolate and sun flower seeds in puff pastry. Wine is included with the meal. You will also learn about table settings, which wine glass to use, all served in a well-appointed setting that is worthy of picture taking. The next classes will be held on January 13th and the 24th at 6:30 pm.

For additional information, or to sign up for the class, call (322) 222-7017 or send an email to y_brittingham(at)hotmail.com.