Do I need prior cooking experience to join the class?

No previous experience is needed; the class is designed for cooks of all levels.

Are classes suitable for children?

The minimum age varies, but generally children 12 and older can participate with adult supervision.

Can I eat the empanadas I make?

Yes, part of the class is enjoying the freshly baked empanadas together.

Is the class accommodating to dietary restrictions?

Notify the organizers of dietary needs in advance; alternative fillings may be available.

Where is the class held?

Classes take place at the Santa Fe School of Cooking in downtown Santa Fe, NM.

How do I book a spot?

Reserve your place online via the provided referral link which ensures availability.

Mastering Latin Flavors: Hands-On Empanada Class with Donna Kelly in Santa Fe | Events | Food Tour

Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a destination where rich cultural traditions meet vibrant culinary artistry — and nowhere is this more deliciously evident than in the Empanadas! cooking class featuring guest chef and cookbook author Donna Kelly. This two-hour, hands-on experience invites food lovers and adventure seekers alike to dive into the authentic flavors of Latin America, right in the heart of the city known for its deep Hispanic heritage and Southwestern charm.

The class centers around the art of empanada-making, an iconic dish that’s both portable and packed with flavor. Under Donna Kelly’s expert guidance, participants learn to prepare three distinct fillings that showcase a balance of savory and sweet: the classic Beef Picadillo, a hearty and spiced ground beef mixture; the delicate yet robust Spinach and Cheese; and the unexpected twist of Cinnamon Apple Pie, blending dessert and tradition in a single pastry. Each filling highlights regional ingredients and time-honored techniques that connect the culinary past with contemporary tastes.

Held at the Santa Fe School of Cooking, this experience offers more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a cultural immersion. Students engage with the stories behind each recipe, taking in the rhythms of the kitchen alongside lively music and conversation. As the empanadas bake to golden perfection, the room fills with enticing aromas that hint at the delights to come.

Santa Fe’s unique adobe architecture and high desert landscape provide a backdrop to a city deeply influenced by Native American, Spanish, and Mexican cultures. This class stands out not only for its culinary depth but because it is anchored here, where food is a living expression of story and place. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a local wanting to deepen your connection to New Mexican gastronomy, this hands-on workshop offers a memorable, palate-expanding afternoon.

Perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or small groups, the class strikes a welcoming tone, making it accessible for home cooks eager to replicate these flavors long after they leave Santa Fe. The opportunity to learn directly from a published chef amid an engaging community ambiance makes this one-of-a-kind experience worth adding to any itinerary.

For those looking to savor the tastes of Santa Fe beyond the hikes and galleries, this empanada class with Donna Kelly is a delicious gateway to the city’s culinary soul, blending education, culture, and mouthwatering results in an unforgettable experience.

About Santa Fe School of Cooking

Santa Fe School of Cooking is a culinary education and event company based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The school offers a diverse schedule of hands-on and demonstration cooking classes, themed dinners, and collaborative musical dining events. Classes range from technique-focused demonstrations to hands-on sessions that teach traditional New Mexican, Mexican, and border-region recipes. Students learn dishes such as chilaquiles, corn pudding, cream of green chile soup, carne tampiqueña, tacos al pastor, and salsa macha, and explore ingredients like achiote, lime, apricot, eggplant, and green chile.

The school partners with local venues and cultural organizations to present unique dinner concerts and festival collaborations. Featured events include jazz evenings at Dave’s Jazz Bistro with performers such as Delbert Anderson, Tawanda Suessbrich-Joaquim with the John Rangel Trio, Robby Beasley, Dr. Chris Buckholz, Eddie Daniels, and Lee Musiker. The program has also collaborated with the Santa Fe Indian Market and the New Mexico Jazz Festival, pairing live music and poetry with menus inspired by Native culinary traditions.

Instruction is led by experienced chefs and culinary professionals who design curated menus for holiday dinners, healthy seasonal menus, vegetarian offerings, and culturally rooted tasting menus. The school emphasizes authentic regional flavors, practical techniques, and convivial dining experiences. Visitors and students can expect clear instruction, thoughtfully sourced recipes, and opportunities to taste and take home new skills. Santa Fe School of Cooking focuses on culinary education, cultural connection, and memorable food-centered events. Classes accommodate home cooks and visiting travelers seeking authentic regional cooking experiences and techniques.