Platos Navideños de mi Abuela

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 on Wednesday, December 15th, it's time to say -- feliz Navidad! Now here’s a holiday menu worth celebrating: Don’t shy away from making these traditional dishes at home -- chef Maria Bido shows us how to prep ahead and make a stress-free feast, including:

• Pásteles (Malanga/Cassava Masa Wrapped in Green Bananas)
• Arroz con Gándules (Rice with Pigeon Peas)
• Pérnil (Roasted Pork Shoulder)

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.

Attendees aged 12 and older who attend programs and events at Essex Market will be required to show proof that they have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine authorized for emergency use by the FDA or WHO, and are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings. More information about vaccination proof for indoor activities (Key to NYC) can be found here.

This series is presented in partnership with The Loisaida Center with the collective mission to preserve and pass down culinary heritage from the Lower East Side community. We invite all ages and abilities to join us for these unique, fun and celebratory cooking classes at Essex Market.

Host or Publisher La Cocina de Loisaida