Best of Bacalao

Longtime Lower East Side resident and local caterer Maria Bido shares the recipes and techniques passed down by her abuela, all based in authentic Puerto Rican flavors and ingredients from Essex Market.

Each month we’ll explore a new batch of family favorites, including Maria’s flawless arroz con pollo, street food from a classic cuchifritos, and -- as the holidays near -- festive favorites like pasteles and tres leches.

In this class we're all about the bacalao! Bacalao⏤salted codfish⏤is the backbone of countless Puerto Rican dishes, and served all over the island in various preparations. Gain a new appreciation by making:

• Bacalao Guisao (Stewed Codfish w/ Yuca)

• Guanimes (Puerto Rican Corn Tamales)

• Alfajores (Caramel sandwich cookies)

The class will be approximately 1.5 hours long and include time to savor the dishes you prepare together as a group. La Cocina de Loisaida takes place in the Essex Kitchen -- Essex Market's demonstration and teaching kitchen located on the market's mezzanine level.

Host or Publisher La Cocina de Loisaida