Stories

Unique Valentines Gifts for Her in Sydney 2024

This February 14th find a Valentine's gift for her that is as unique as she is! Our gift experiences in Sydney will delight your wife or girlfriend ...

Try Out a Photography Class in Sydney (2024)

Get off manual mode and explore your city with photography courses in Sydney.

9 Reasons to Try Cooking Class in Sydney

Need a little convincing to try cooking classes in Sydney? From exploring different cultures to building confidence, here are 9 reasons to try cooking ...

11 Unique Cooking Class in Sydney

Join unique cooking classes in Sydney and add a dash of excitement and flavour to your week!

Top Ten Experience Gifts for Him

Christmas Day is less than a week away, but if you’ve left shopping for the men in your life to the last minute, don’t panic. We’veChristmas Day is less than a week away, but if you’ve left shopping for the men in your life to the last minute, don’t panic. We’ve got experience gifts for him that we know you (and they!) will love. Introducing ClassBento. ClassBento has carefully curated a whole range of creative, hands-on workshops that make for truly unique Christmas gifts — whether you’re shopping for your dad, brother, husband, son, boyfriend or grandfather. We’re talking everything from wine tasting lessons to terrarium building classes. The best part? You don’t even need to leave your house to purchase a ClassBento workshop. With the click of a button, you can either book specific workshops for your lucky lads at ClassBento.com.au or simply buy them gift vouchers. ClassBento will send out lovely gift cards or you can get the vouchers emailed to you as easy-to-print PDFs — perfect for those last-minute presents! Need some ideas? Here are ClassBento’s top ten gift-ready experiences and activities ‘for him’ that would make any guy happy this Christmas… 1. Coffee brewing workshop: Channel your inner hipster and learn how to analyse the different aromas and flavour profiles of coffee, then try your hand at various brewing methods. 2. Juggling lesson: It’s scientifically proven that juggling helps to improve your coordination and balance, sharpen your focus and concentration and boost the connections in your brain. It’s also a lot of fun! 3. Wine tasting class: Learn about wine-making techniques, how to identify specific flavours and aromas, which wines to pair with what and how to pick a top quality drop. 4. Terrarium building workshop: Terrariums are so on-trend right now. Reconnect with nature, get creative and learn how to build and decorate your very own terrarium. 5. Metalsmithing lesson: Learn basic metalsmithing techniques, then create your own unique design — perhaps a ring or a pendant. 6. Cocktail making class: Learn how to make a damn good martini or put a new twist on a classic margarita. The skills that you learn are bound to come in handy in the new year! 7. Painting workshop: A fantastic way to relax, unwind and get those creative juices flowing. Enjoy time away from your phone and computer screens and create a true work of art. 8. Cooking course: Whether you’re learning to prepare seafood paella or cook a delicious pasta, flex your culinary skills and learn to whip up some brand-new recipes. Nothing tastes quite as good as a homemade dish! 9. Pottery class: Get your hands nice and dirty, learn the basics of pottery and return home with a handmade decorative bowl, teapot or vase. 10. Skateboarding lesson: The perfect gift for active young kids and big kids at heart (we’re looking at you, dads and grandparents!). ClassBento’s workshops take place all over Sydney every day of the week, AM to PM, and by attending or purchasing a workshop, you will be supporting a local small business or artist. Plus, one dollar from every ClassBento workshop booking gets donated to Dementia Australia — 'tis the season of giving! Find more unique experience gifts for him here. ...

7 Experience Gifts for Grandparents This Christmas 2024

Spoil your grandparents this Christmas 2023 with experience gift cards! From flower arranging to pottery classes, they're guaranteed to feel the ...

Top 7 Experience Gifts for Christmas

We wrap up our top 7 experience gifts in Sydney, perfect for Christmas in 2023. Designed to help your gift recipients unplug, get creative and make ...

Top Tips to Switch Off at Xmas

As we hurtle towards Christmas Day and the summer break — if you’re lucky enough to get one — everyone seems to be feeling overworked,As we hurtle towards Christmas Day and the summer break — if you’re lucky enough to get one — everyone seems to be feeling overworked, overtired and just plain over it. There's no better time to host a fun team building experience in Sydney. In the office, end-of-year deadlines are looming. At home, the financial pressures of purchasing festive food and gifts are building. Add to that the multitude of social commitments during the silly season, as well as the imminent and often stressful gatherings with extended family members, and it’s easy to understand why we might be feeling a little more miserable than merry at the moment. So, what can we do about it? At ClassBento, many of the people attending our workshops say that they are taking part because it helps them to switch off, relax and recharge. Focusing your attention on a fun and creative activity, like building a terrarium or learning to cook a new recipe, is a great way to wind down at the end of a hectic day. It’s also the perfect excuse for taking some time away from your phone and computer screens — a mini digital detox, if you will. Whether you opt for a workshop or a workout, it really is essential that you treat yourself to some ‘me time’ when you need it. If you're looking for Christmas party inspiration for the office read our article here. Need some inspiration? We asked some very busy business people how they avoid burnout and what they do to switch off during the chaotic Christmas season — and their answers just might surprise you… Being in nature helps me to re-energise, so I head out of the city and do some hiking. — Peter Petrovski, Product Manager at The Iconic I like to research a new recipe I've never cooked and go on an adventure to the shops to buy all the ingredients. I think it was a rack of lamb last time. — Karim Mouahbi, Head of Marketing at Mad Paws “I spend time with my kids. They are very active in sports, so I take them for practice or coach them.” — Asok Boopathy, Head of Product at BrickX “Playing basketball with friends and colleagues. There’s nothing like a team sport to re-energise!” — Brent Maxwell, Partner Solutions Architect at Amazon Web Services “Yoga, spending some time with my closest friends or even just going outside for a walk, a cup of coffee and some fresh air.” — Tyler Wilchek, Head of Customer Experience at BoozeBud “Running in hilly areas and near water. Hills are motivating, they become a metaphor for the struggles I’m currently facing and beating them generates energy. I listen to rap and deep house music while I’m at it.” — Niklas Olsson, Co-Founder of Premonition "I like to do yoga and, in the summer months, surfing and swimming in the ocean. On the weekends I also enjoy a short afternoon nap when I can fit it in!" — Laurence Olsen, Partner at Ernst & Young “I would like to go for a swim (we have a pool around the corner), but in reality, I usually go for a walk around the block.” — Mirco Mattevi, Product Manager at Afterpay ...

Last Minute Experience Gifts for Sydneysiders

Spoil your special someone this Christmas with these unforgettable experience gifts in Sydney, from cocktail classes to DIY terrarium workshops and ...

Top Christmas Gifts for Couples in Sydney 2024

Transform your holiday shopping with the best Christmas gifts for couples in Sydney, guaranteed to sweeten their festive celebrations!

Brand Activation for Fashion Company

A popular fashion company wanted to reinvigorate its brand, and launched a youthful campaign, with a Cuban theme, supported by a prominent singer ...

5 Creative School Excursion Ideas Sydney

Looking for an inspiring school excursion ideas in Sydney? Whether you're organising an event for high school students or even primary school ...

DIY Christmas Gifts and Cards Sydney

Want to make some unique, heartfelt eco gifts, with your personal touch, that your recipient won't find anywhere else? Maybe it's a birthday, ...

Ladies Weekend Away Ideas

Heading away from Sydney and looking forward to a hens weekend away? These hens party activities in Sydney and surrounds will keep the fun going ...

Experience Candle Making Classes at Caroma in Sydney

Last Saturday, ClassBento's expert soap making teacher, Elena Martarello, hosted a group of 30 students at Sydney's Caroma Flagship store ...

Why a Terrarium Workshop for Sydney Corporates Is a Good Idea

On one fine Wednesday afternoon, we were contacted by the Sydney office of a prominent legal firm, hoping to do a creative terrarium workshopOn one fine Wednesday afternoon, we were contacted by the Sydney office of a prominent legal firm, hoping to do a creative terrarium workshop for their hardworking team of 40. We quickly got one of our favourite terrarium teachers to fit their budget, and the date was set! Everyone was eagerly anticipating the class. Our teacher, Pamela, has been giving informal arts and crafts classes over last few years on a variety of topics, ranging from terrarium making to Kokedama making, to jewelry making and even watercolour. She's a lady of many talents! The team was presented with a beautiful range of materials, including soil, moss, pebbles, mini figurines, and of course, some petite succulent plants and some glass jars to house them in. Everything was set up previously, so they could just show up and enjoy! With some guidance from Pamela, the team strapped on their gloves and dug into the task at hand, constructing their cute mini garden landscapes, layer by layer, some meticulously, others somewhat whimsically and chaotically. It was run at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time for questions and curiousities to be satisfied, and for everyone there to bond and get to know each other better. The atmosphere was fun and buzzing. They were transported into another world, where they could really forget about their daily work, disconnect, and rejuvenate their minds for a few hours. Each team member brought their own unique style to the table, choosing the ingredients that caught their eye, and combining them in a way that spoke to them. With their little scissors and brushes, they trimmed and curated their little kingdoms to their heart's content. And the best part? Everyone got to keep their proud creations, a nice living reminder of the great time they spent together (and easy to take care of too!) Intrigued? Get in touch and we can set you up with a creative workshop for your next event, or, just fly solo (or with a partner) and join one of our public terrarium classes on the weekend or any other time that suits you. Be blown away by Australia's largest terrarium here. ...

Australia's Biggest Terrarium

Epic. Incredible. The title says it all! A glorious living garden in an absolutely huge fishbowl glass. A terrarium created by the one and only ...

Craft Gift Experiences for Dad in Sydney

Our co-founder, Iain, shares his favourite crafty gift experiences for dads in Sydney!

Empowering Artists to Earn More, Doing What They Love

It can be tough being an artist and teaching your craft. Artists on average earn only $48,000, compared to an average of around $77,000It can be tough being an artist and teaching your craft. Artists on average earn only $48,000, compared to an average of around $77,000 for everyone else. This massively impacts their lifestyles – some artists even forgo having children because of their financial constraints. It isn’t a tiny problem. There are over 15,000 artists in NSW, and that’s just counting individual visual artists and musicians (e.g. not food artists like chefs or baristas, or garden artists like florists, or those who are unemployed). It's tough making a living, hustling to get money from grants, prizes, and unpredictably selling the occasional artwork. Many artists turn to casual work to make ends meet. Many consider participating in the gig economy. But the biggest Australian marketplaces out there, like Uber and Airtasker, aren’t great for artists. Being creative people, the idea of being stuck in a car, repeating the same task of taking people from point A to point B or delivering food, while earning minimum wage (or less), can be rather demotivating. Assembling IKEA furniture or moving boxes on Airtasker arouses similar feelings, in some ways it goes against the very essence of what it means to be an artist. Not exactly ideal jobs. At the same time, there’s strong (and in many cases, growing) interest in what these artists do – namely, arts and crafts. People (Australians in particular) are often looking for an artisan and unique experience, not something mass-produced and commoditised – the personal and creative touch that artists can provide is exactly what’s being sought after. This is why international brands, pushing their one-size-fits-all products, like Starbucks and Gloria Jeans, struggle so much in Australia – locals often prefer the brews made by their neighbourhood baristas, with the special twists they provide to make that experience just a bit more special and relevant. So why the disconnect? How can we connect this interest with the huge pool of talented artists in our cities, who walk our streets and maybe even live next door? Wouldn’t it be great if artists could do what they love, while earning more? Can’t the gig economy deliver our communities more meaningful and exciting jobs? This is a huge opportunity and forms an important part of our mission at ClassBento. We empower creative teachers to earn hundreds of dollars per hour while indulging in and sharing their passion. They don’t need to spend time on admin or on learning how to do marketing or website building, all of which can be hard for novices to learn and do well – ClassBento takes care of all of that. As many teachers would know, teaching is an incredibly rewarding experience. To be able to grant someone else the gift of skills and knowledge, to broaden their perspectives and to bring a smile to their face, is incredibly gratifying and even therapeutic. Teachers can do it to their schedule, only teaching when they want to, at places convenient to them, whether that’s at their home, their shop or studio, or at the student’s location. Thanks to the ubiquity of services like Airbnb and Uber, most Australians are now comfortable with the idea of letting a complete stranger they’ve never met before providing them with a personal service. With this additional income stream, we hope that teachers can improve their quality of life, and to keep doing what they do best. Through this, they’ll be preserving our culture and traditions while also taking art to new levels, helping us to question our thinking and how we view the world around us. With more creative teachers and classes available locally, we hope that everyone will reconnect with their communities, and keep themselves socially and mentally active, thus keeping problems like burnout and dementia at bay. What’s next? ClassBento will continue to grow its presence to spread the love, and will keep investing into ensuring that the ClassBento platform is the world’s best for discovering and booking fun workshops, and also for teachers to easily earn and manage their classes. It’s a long and exciting ride ahead and we can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. If you’re a teacher, we can’t wait to see what you can do – sign up today and start doing more of what you love. For everyone else, check out our wide range of workshops, and give back to your community. ...

A Guide to Making Your Own Pottery

Delve into the origins of pottery and learn how to begin your DIY ceramics journey at pottery classes in Sydney!

Different Types of Pottery Classes in Sydney

Searching for pottery classes in Sydney? From wheel throwing to clay hand building, find out which ceramic class is perfect for you!

Unique Father's Day Gift Experiences in Sydney

From pottery making to glassblowing, our unique Father's Day gifts for Dad in Sydney will bring a smile to his face!

Creative After Work Activities in Sydney

After work drinks at the pub are great, but in an exciting young city like Sydney, there's lots more to do and explore in the evening hours especiallyAfter work drinks at the pub are great, but in an exciting young city like Sydney, there's lots more to do and explore in the evening hours especially if you're in need of rainy day activities in Sydney. Thanks to our local artists, who are willing to share their passion and expertise, we've got a huge variety of secret and less known things to do in Sydney this weekend. Creative workshops are lots of fun, relaxing, and can help you take a real mental break from the stresses of work and beyond, as well as encouraging you to maintain a better balance against digital addictions (aka a great way to start/stay on digital detox). Do something social - go out with some friends or your other half, or take the opportunity to build relationships with some colleagues or clients. Why not meet some like-minded friends-to-be (and maybe even a potential special someone)? Avoid getting stuck and wasting time in peak hour traffic. Take some time for yourself and zen out, and by the time you're done, all those commuters will be gone and you'll have a much smoother and easier time home. #travelhacks Our teachers are flexible and love to teach, so you're welcome to Request an after-hours workshop. Whether you're in Redfern, Marrickville, Rozelle or elsewhere, we'll have a creative class close to you. And if you'd like to spend some time after your usual work hours teaching and getting some additional income, we'd love to hear from you. Here are some of our favourites: Make a Kokedama or terrarium, in a beautiful Redfern floristry Draw a portrait, perhaps of someone you know (or keep it safe and do something more neutral), under the guidance of a professional illustrator Indulge in cheese, wine... and art of course, in a cozy Rozelle studio. Laugh, chat and create, with a talented artist Learn to make proper coffee in a barista or espresso class, or even jazz it up with a latte art class, with a world champion barista. Get physical and learn to juggle in one of Sydney's beautiful parks (perfect for those longer summer evenings). Take a photography class and develop both your technical skills as well as your artistic approach, with an experienced photographer (smartphones or DSLRs both welcome), in the gorgeous surroundings of The Rocks. It's a perfect time to hone your low-light / night photography skills in particular. ...

Everything You Need to Know About Pottery

Get the lowdown on how to play with clay before getting hands-on at pottery classes in Sydney!

Creative School Holiday Activities in Sydney

Beat boredom with school holiday activities in Sydney to engage and delight your kids! Plus, redeem NSW Creative Kids vouchers valid on over 100 ...

Digital Detox Ideas in Sydney

Our digital devices are taking over our lives. Our phones have transformed from being a device that could only help us talk to people, to becomingOur digital devices are taking over our lives. Our phones have transformed from being a device that could only help us talk to people, to becoming an endless source of entertainment and engagement. And it's the first place we turn if we're looking for things to do this weekend. It’s no surprise that our devices are so hard to switch off, since they’re designed to be addictive. When we see an email, a comment or a ‘like’, we feel cared about, we feel important – it’s the pleasure of basic social recognition. When we see some news or updates, we feel a rush from our brain’s hit of dopamine. It’s a big problem. Big enough that companies like Google, Apple and Facebook are getting in on the act, providing apps and tweaking their products to help us control our cravings. And it's a problem worth solving. A more balanced life, with more mindfulness, has huge benefits. Studies have shown a correlation between digital addiction and depression/anxiety. Intuitively, you’ll of course have a lot more time to build and develop personal relationships, and relax as you take a break from chasing digital pats on your back, and enjoy the simpler things in life. If you live in Sydney, digital detox is arguably easier than elsewhere. Let’s take Singapore as a comparison. Instead of facing stifling tropical heat and humidity (or torrential downpours) when you step out the door, Sydney actually has pretty nice weather most of the year. Instead of a tiny island where going to malls is the main respite, Sydney has a huge number of activities and natural beauty to enjoy. Here are some of our favourite tips for Sydney-siders (or tourists here for a stay) undertaking digital detox. Get in the water. Swimming, kayaking, or any physical water sport. It’s pretty hard to check your emails while doing any of these activities (even if you have a waterproof device – if you’re anything like me (unfit), you’ll be too busy struggling to stay alive). Be inspired by the beauty of Sydney’s pristine beaches while you’re out there, and remind yourself of the beauty that just can’t be wholly captured in an Instagram photo. Team sports. We Aussies love our sports. Get some friends and go on your detox journey together – it’s harder to quit halfway when you’ve already made promises to your friends. The adrenaline rush you get from sports also keeps you buzzing immediately afterwards (negating the need for electronic stimulants), and also helps you sleep later that night - you'll be too tired to even bother checking your phone. Creative classes. Keep both your mind and your hands occupied as you decide exactly how you want to design a mini garden landscape in a bowl. Mentally travel back to earlier days without the need for scrolling back through your social media, by playing with nostalgic scents in a fragrance-making or candle-making workshop. Or pick up some practical skills like cooking, that you can use over and over again. ClassBento has a range of workshops held in-person by passionate local experts. Meet some new people and form some meaningful and real social connections. Have other tips that are specific to Sydney? Do let us know. Otherwise, we hope you've found these tips useful! ...

Creative Date Ideas in Sydney

Discover creative date night ideas in Sydney to reignite a spark! Enjoy unique experiences with your special someone in 2024.

Best Candle Making Aromatherapy Classes in Sydney

Illuminating the corners of a bath, at the end of an arduous day, the centerpiece of a romantic dinner, candles serve to soften the edges of ourIlluminating the corners of a bath, at the end of an arduous day, the centerpiece of a romantic dinner, candles serve to soften the edges of our strenuous lives. Their aromatic powers trace back thousands of years, when ancient civilisations harnessed healing properties from oil and plant material. Raw materials, from bone fat and beeswax, to paraffin, have formed the foundation for candles lighting the way across history. Now, you can learn the secrets at candle making classes in Sydney. The novelty of candles has not faded in modern times, despite technological advances in lighting. Rather, candles are associated with symbolic décor at special events, such as Christmas or birthdays. Though they are not limited to their aesthetic appeal, aromatherapy via scent has prompted many to place candles around the home for psychological and physical wellbeing. According to scientific research, essential oils have the ability to stimulate the production of glucocorticoids, helping the body manage stress and encourage anti-inflammatory effects. Targeting scent molecules, aromatic smells trigger neuroendocrine responses in the brain, affecting mood, energy and physiological reactions. Store-bought candles, though therapeutic, often contain concentrated scents, with harmful chemicals such as petroleum, paraffin, palm oil or beeswax. Candle-maker Elena Martarello, has sought to change that. In an eco-friendly line, Elena has designed candles for weddings, baptisms and many other events. Owner of Bellanina Creations, the Sydney-based designer steers away from colourants and additives found in stores. Her creations reflect her philosophy to live a natural and cruelty-free life. Made with biodegradable and renewable soy wax, Elena’s home-made candles burn for twice the time of regular candles due to the low melting-point temperature of soy. And unlike the fragrant heavy, double or triple scented candles found in stores, Bellanina candles emit just the right amount. In a thoroughly sustainable process, customers are able to clean away the water soluble wax and re-purpose glass containers after use. Join Elena in a hands-on candle making workshop in Sydney. Learn how candles work, the different types of waxes and their uses, the properties of wick, fragrances and pigment and best methods of care to prolong use. You’ll have lots of fun as you create 100% natural, vegan candles with beautiful glass and eco-soy wax. Delight your senses and experiment with up to thirty fragrances, which could include melon, cucumber, sandalwood musk, Italian summer fig and buttercream vanilla. Select colours expressive of your personality or home aesthetic. Opt for environmentally friendly alternatives to store bought, mass-produced candles. Begin the therapeutic experience early and unwind in a creative workshop with other like-minded creatives. Take home candles to gift or for décor, and let them inspire you for future creations. ...

Best Matcha Recipe Ideas to Improve Your Health

Matcha, which directly translates to ‘powdered tea’ in Japanese, found its roots over one thousand years ago, when Japanese monks wouldMatcha, which directly translates to ‘powdered tea’ in Japanese, found its roots over one thousand years ago, when Japanese monks would consume the beverage, to maintain calm during meditation practice. In modern Japan, matcha, at the center tea ceremonies, continues to reflect Zen culture. It's also an incredibly popular ingredient in Japanese cooking classes in Sydney. Its signature green colour is the result of the slow growth of the leaves under shade, thus obtaining a greater chlorophyll density. Once harvested, the leaves are ground into fine powder, combined with hot water and whisked with a bamboo brush or ‘chasen’ to make tea. Garnering the attention of superfood lovers and others alike, matcha can be found in a slew of sweet and savoury dishes, from muffins to guacamole, the green powder is known to boost mental wellbeing, weight loss and even fight cancer, Alzheimers and dementia. Facts about matcha When consumed daily, matcha supports the immune system, sustaining your body’s antioxidant levels. Its unique class of antioxidants ‘catechins’, specifically ‘epigallocatechin’ (EGC), can ward off agents which damage cell DNA, and thus reduce chance of cancer, and help fend of the signs of ageing. According to a study conducted by Tufts University, its high antioxidant level of 1573 units is far above food such as blueberries (93) and broccoli (31). Matcha promotes longer-term, sustainable energy. The drink lets you skip past coffee jitters, delivering natural caffeine throughout the body over a 6-8-hour period. L-Theanine amino acid found in matcha increases dopamine levels and boosts serotonin, enhances focus, balances your mood and reduces stress. Alongside detoxifying and rebooting internal processes, matcha improves your outer appearance. One spoon of Matcha tea powder is equal to 10 cups of green tea per day, vastly lowering cholesterol and blood pressure and boosting weightloss. The powder inhibits cell degeneration responsible for wrinkles, skin cancer, loss of collagen and skin elasticity. Matcha meals to try Topping countless meal variations, matcha lattes are likely the most common and popular form. In a fresh, yet complex process, lattes comprise of matcha powder, milk and sometimes a sweetener. Added to smoothies, ice-creams and pancakes – its natural bright green aesthetic is favoured among chefs and health-enthusiasts alike. The green hues are refined on social media where one can scroll through hundreds of photos featuring innovative matcha recipes under the hashtag #matcha; crepes, fudge and green granola included. Japanese foods including rice, green-tea ice-cream or mochi also incorporate matcha. To harness the best quality of matcha, the degree of grade, from cooking to ceremonial must be taken into consideration. Ceremonial graded matcha is usually representative of the region it came from, the amount of time the tea spent in shade before harvest, among other factors. Alternatively, cooking grade matcha is commonly used to produce sweeter cafe drinks. Indicators of ceremonial grade are colour: fluorescent as opposed to moss green and flavouring: slightly bitter with a refreshing grassy taste. When not prepared with care, matcha can lose its nutritional properties. And to maximise and neutralise matcha’s antioxidants, various ingredient pairings help to increase its properties such as citrus from lemon, promoting absorption. Vitamin C perfectly compliments matcha’s grassy notes. Typical Japanese desserts such as yoghurt: to balancing out bitter flavours or chewy, sweet mochi: to add a layer of texture to compliment matcha. Discover more traditional Japanese cooking classes here. Learn to use matcha Learn how to harness matcha’s best qualities under the expertise of a professional chef. Cook delectable matcha dishes in Matcha Lovers High Tea workshop alongside chef Yoshiko Takeuchi. Dip your fingers in coconut fudge, make two-colour mocha balls with yuzu and matcha an-paste and cold soba with matcha broth. Yoshiko holds over ten years to her name as a qualified chef, frequenting Sydney’s top kitchens and working alongside professionals including Tetsuya Wakuda. Dedicated to cooking healthily, she states: “I want all my students glow with confidence, energy and healthy beauty.” Yoshiko’s Japanese influenced vegetarian and vegan meals, aim to do just that. Observe Yoshiko’s detailed and easy-to-follow demonstrations, following hands-on practice. Sip on a yuzu matcha mocktail and organic matcha green tea. Take home practical and appetising recipes to replicate at home and incorporate into future meals. Take control of your relationship to food and echo Yoshiko’s philosophy of taking onboard a healthy and enriching lifestyle. ...

Learn to Cook Traditional Japanese Food in Sydney

‘We are truly happy. We would like to continue passing on Japanese food culture to the generations to come and work harder to let people overseas‘We are truly happy. We would like to continue passing on Japanese food culture to the generations to come and work harder to let people overseas appreciate the benefits of washoku’ revelled the Japanese President Shinzo Abe, in late 2013. Japanese cuisine or ‘washoku’ had just earned a place on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, seated between nations: France and Mexico, lauded for their culturally significant cuisines. In a country renowned for its harmonious relationship to food, the recognition arrived at a time when vast amounts of food waste suggested otherwise. Specifically, a whopping eight million tons of it. President of the National Assembly on the Preservation and Continuation of Washoku Culture, Isao Kumakura, attributed the waste to the seductive charm of convenience. The Japanese appeared to be swept up in soaring productivity of the 21st century, the fast-paced days saw the home delivery of noodle-dishes and bento box lunches, fad-food diets and restaurant distributed meals replacing home-cooked. This detachment from food, ruined the very foundation of washoku: valuing food and avoiding waste. The pace of progress has not slowed for anyone, least of all Japan, since 2013, though the movements of bodies such as the National Assembly, alongside grassroots action, have certainly helped revive the endangered washoku. Implementation of parent-child classes in diverse dietary education, provision of local dishes in school lunches and community events and the establishment of symposiums on Japan’s dietary culture, have encouraged locals to rediscover their identity. Rediscovering Washoku Over the course of history, the cultural influence of nations embarking upon Japanese shores has resulted in numerous culinary transformations. The arrival of European missionaries during the 16th century saw locals combine Spanish and Portuguese frying techniques. An experimentation with Chinese methods of cooking during this time resulted in tempura: a deep-fried dish typically focused on seafood and vegetables, popular in modern Japan. Japanese chefs incorporated increasingly more meat into their dishes, reflective of Western-style cooking during the 19th century. Soon enough, beef, deep-fried pork cutlets and curry dominated the food scene. Underlying it all: the traditional Japanese cuisine: washoku, valuing simplicity and health. Surrounded by seas where warm and cold currents converge, Japan is home to four thousand species of fish, including squid, octopus, and eel. Sea vegetables line the shores and well developed rice fields saw the birth of a culture of cultivation, dating two thousand years. A combination of Japan’s natural elements, constitute the basis of washoku. Sitting down for a traditional meal typically resembles: a bowl of rice, miso soup, pickled vegetables, fish or meat. Noodles often replace rice as a staple food, including udon, soba and ramen. Only the freshest and seasonal ingredients are served, in minimalist presentation. Japanese chefs aim to harness the natural flavour and texture of each ingredient, most commonly fish, requiring knife mastery specific to Japanese culinary arts. As children, locals are taught to balance plain-tasting rice with stronger side-tasting dishes, consuming a morsel of rice after each bite of side dish, savouring the taste and texture of every ingredient and achieve a balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Umami is the core, essential element in washoku, translated from Japanese to ‘pleasant savoury taste’ coined by chemist: Kikunae Ikeda, back in 1908. Japanese cooking uses minimal ingredients, umami provides the flavour base for most dishes. The flavour is richest in fermented condiments such as ‘dashi’, a rich stock made from kelp, miso (fermented soybean paste) and soy sauce. Of the numerous styles of Japanese cooking, chakaiseki (also spelt as kaiseki): cuisine of the tea ceremony meal, honzen ryori: elaborate style of banquet cooking and kaiseki ryori: traditional multi-course dinner, Shojin ryori: the temple food of Zen Buddhists, values traditional cuisine in a deeply introspective approach, reflective of the Buddhist gratitude to nature, promoting harmony of mind, body and soul. Temple Food of Zen Buddhists Dating back to prehistoric times, the Japanese’ indigenous worldview has found profound religious meaning in its surrounding natural environment. Founder of Soto Zen, Japanese monk: Dogen Zenshi, asserted the belief that non-sentient beings shared the human ability to engage in discourse with the Buddhist Dharma, and were therefore not exempt from enlightenment. Dogen’s philosophical values extend to shojin ryori, one of many Japanese cuisines, though maintains the largest influence on food in the country. A common mantra of Zen Buddhism, spreading through 13th century Japan, was the belief in foods to provide balance, alignment to body, mind and spirit. Buddhist monks indulged in soybean-based foods, seasonal vegetables and wild mountain plants. Forbidden to slaughter animals for consumption, monks abstained from meat, fish or any animal product, believed to cloud the spirit and interfere with meditation. The ‘rule of five’ underlies shojin ryori meals, based on achieving nutritional balance and placing the body in balance with the seasons, by incorporating five colours and flavours into each meal. Common seasonal vegetables include: cucumber and tomato for refreshment in Summertime and root vegetables to warm the body in Winter. Buddhist monks preserve all components of local vegetables, including the tops and skins off carrots, radish leaves, out of respect for the natural environment. Knife Mastery Unique to Japanese cuisine is its cultural eating rituals and habits. Japanese chefs, who train for years, wield their artistic hands to create vigilantly prepared dishes, appealing to the senses as well as palate. Perhaps more reflective of an art form, than cooking, highly-skilled Japanese chefs dedicate laborious hours to rolling sushi with a bamboo rolling mats, grating daikon, grinding fresh sesame seeds, wielding clay cooking pots and simmering delicate fish with a wooden-drop lid (otoshi-buta). Mastering multiple knife techniques, chefs choose from an array of knives and cut entirely by hand: delicate slices of sashimi, wispy strands of daikon, flowers out of carrots and fish, beef and chicken into bite-sized pieces to be handled by chopsticks. Raw, simmered, fried, steamed, roasted or grilled, Japanese cuisine is presented on the plate with the utmost precision, the result of strenuous dedication, echoing a philosophy gratitudinous of the environment. Japanese Cuisine in Sydney Over the past few decades, Japanese cuisine has found a face in the international market. A boom in Japanese restaurants overseas, has attracting diverse audiences to sushi and noodle bars, to reap the benefits of the natural, nutritional dishes. Unfortunately, however, some of its authenticity has been lost along the journey. At the helm of Japanese eateries both small and large, chefs are often not of Japanese descent or properly trained in Japanese cuisine, and lean towards dishes that more closely resemble Chinese food, or take shortcuts and simply serve MSG-filled food. For an authentic Japanese culinary experience, Sydney-siders can opt for a professional-led class with ClassBento. Embark upon an appreciation of Japanese culture, begin a journey of health improvement, and choose from a range of classes with Yoshiko Takeuchi, who boasts over ten years cooking experience. Yoshiko has frequented some of Sydney’s top kitchens, specialising in Japanese vegetarian and vegan recipes, in a mission to promote a healthy and enriching lifestyle. Start with a beginner's course, or jump straight into in a Superfood Gyoza or Power of Miso cooking class. Learn how to make healthy alternatives to gyoza, miso and sushi minus the msg and deep-frying practices found in some restaurants. Form mounds of sushi rice, create nigiri and nori rolls whilst sipping on Japanese tea with other Japanese-food enthusiasts. Make tofu from soybeans, tempura or matcha green tea salt. Embrace the Buddhist lifestyle in a Shojin Ryori Vegetarian cooking class by Setsuko Yanagisawa and make mushroom tempura, lotus roots dishes, and much more, while relaxing your mind and spirit with tea and sake. Introduce yourself to a diverse range of Japanese ingredients, refine your skills and cleanse your body. Interested in making traditional Japanese sweets? Learn to make Japanese sweets in Sydney! ...

Creative Activities Around the Vivid Festival

When the sun sets in Sydney during the winter, the city transforms into a hub of creativity. From 25th May to 16th June 2018, the Vivid FestivalWhen the sun sets in Sydney during the winter, the city transforms into a hub of creativity. From 25th May to 16th June 2018, the Vivid Festival will attract audiences from all over Australia in an annual celebration of light, music and ideas. Last year, the city saw a whopping 2.3 million bright-eyed attendees roaming the colourful nighttime playground. For its 10th anniversary, attendees will be transported into an underwater world of shimmering corals, bioluminescent jellyfish at Sydney’s Darling Harbour. Wander the Royal Botanic Gardens forest, rippling and pulsing with more than 40,000 individually-controlled RGB pixels. Converse with a giant luminescent puppet, performing fire and rain rituals in celebration of Barangaroo’s Indigenous history. Contemplate the meaning of life in a 360-degree light projection of the observable universe in the North Shore. But the creative pulse of Australia’s largest city does not always reveal itself in the form of giant puppets or luminescent jellyfish under the magnetism of the night sky. In the larger Sydney arena, pockets of creative expression and learning can be found in rain or shine. Circular Quay/The Rocks Night Photography The parks, bays, cafes and museums observable to the travelers’ inquisitive eye, demand to be documented. Memories of a trip past, though poignant, fall back on their ephemeral qualities. Unless you possess master storytelling skills, wielding memory to recount a trip abroad to relatives, most often results in frustration on the traveler’s behalf, who cannot possibly do justice to the magical places seen. Fortunately enough, this can be resolved with the aid of a photograph – an immediate and tangible clarification of a sight seen with layers of emotion felt at the time. It is no surprise then, that most travelers wish to improve their photography skills – and what better place to harness the power of photography in an environment oozing creativity? If the thought of wandering through thousands of virtual toy balls or one thousand cranes excites you, then paying a visit to Vivid on The Rocks may just provide the ultimate creative space to exercise your camera skills. Director of Alfonso’s Photo Tours, Alfonso Calero, started his business back in 2008 with the aim of teaching locals and tourists travel photography. His Night Photography Short Course focuses on composition and shooting skills, with an emphasis on unconventional thinking as a key tool in the creative process. Equip yourself with a camera of choice and follow the professional photographer down Sydney’s historic laneways in the shadow of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. In an entirely customizable class, request tips from Alfonso on travel photography genres, styles and composition. Learn how to control ISO, shutter speed and aperture expertly to produce low-light shots. Become well acquainted with Sydney’s architecture and landscapes in its most creative and abstract time of year. Capture the multi-coloured canvas of the Opera House for the Lighting of the Sails exhibit. Compliment your tales with timeless photographs of a city at its prime. Collect images that will evoke wander and inspire upon reflection for years to come. Central Business District Whilst getting lost in electric forests or interacting with a six-metre high puppet promises all the creative stimulation in the world. There is no shortage of Sydney’s creative community during its day-lit hours. Start the creative journey early and head towards Sydney’s Central Business District for a range of workshops, including terrarium, pottery, flower arranging or cooking. Succulent Terrarium-Making Located in the inner-city suburb of Redfern, just three kilometres South of the CBD, the creative team from Merchant and Green host a range of classes from flower arranging to terrarium making. In a Terrarium Making class, work in an immersive and interactive environment under the expertise of senior florists and stylists. Construct a personalised wild landscape of fresh soil, river stones and petite succulents, embellish your vintage style glass jar with figurines, boulders and pebbles. Take home a low-maintenance, long-living plant to spruce up your home. Macaron Making In the neighboring suburb, Surry Hills, lies Sydney’s leading macaron makers: MakMak Macarons. Surpassing competitors such as Laduree and Zumbo, the company is known for their unique blending of texture and flavour. In a Macaron Making class, under the expertise of professional chefs, wield chocolate, slice fresh fruit and combine native Australian ingredients replicate the premium, handmade macarons delighting customers since 2010. Experiment with Maldon Sea Salt, Bombay Sapphire gin, lemon myrtle and strawberry gum. Walk away with a complimentary gift bag with ingredients to whip up your own batch at home. Ikebana Flower Arrangement Nestled in the eccentric suburb of Glebe, rest the tranquil confines of Sydney’s most renowned floristry boutique. Familiarise yourself with seasonal flowers in an Ikebana Flower Arranging workshop. Create stunning arrangements with Setsuko Yanagisawa, boasting no less than thirteen years of experience in floristry, specializing in the Ikebana technique. Fasten and secure stems whilst learning about the history of Ikebana. Combine textures, patterns and elements to create sophisticated and elegant arrangements to take home. Visit the Yuga café next door to regain your energy for a night out. North-Shore There is certainly no shortage of artistic talent, light projections and lasers in Sydney’s quieter suburbs during the Vivid Festival. Across the Harbour Bridge, the understated landscapes of the North Shore will embody futuristic artworks. By night, admire the mysteries of existence in a 360 degree light display projecting the stars and planets of the observable universe. Shodo Japanese Calligraphy In the heart of Chatswood, rejuvenate and improve your focus in a Shodo Japanese Calligraphy workshop. Learn how to make different types of sumi ink under the guidance of Ren, an artist recognised internationally. Learn Japanese characters and wield your calligraphy brush or 'fude' against a special type of Japanese paper called ‘hanshi’. Express emotion through brush stroke pressure, rhythm and tone. Following the creative class, meander the streets of Chatswood in a pop-up street market filled with recycled materials, lasers and scaffolding. Contemplate the meaning of the universe under the star-studded light display at the Concourse. … The Vivid Festival encourages visitors to engage in a hub of artistic expression and conversation of big ideas. By nightfall, the romantic harbour is specked with cruise ships and vessels contoured by a spectrum of saturated colour, and the magic of the city simply continues in different forms, with the rising of the sun. ...

Inside a DIY Terrarium Class

Spoiler alert! If you'd like to discover the magic of terrarium making for yourself, go ahead and book yourself in, and read no further. ButSpoiler alert! If you'd like to discover the magic of terrarium making for yourself, go ahead and book yourself in, and read no further. But if you're curious about what exactly happens in a terrarium workshop, I'll be sharing my personal experience with you in detail. Entree I stepped into the Merchant and Green floristry, where the walls are adorned with flowers and shrubs of all kinds, ranging from classics like roses and tulips, as well as Australian natives, through to more exotic (at least for me) flora like cotton. I also learned that there was a Happy Plant in the corner, as well as a Mother-in-laws-tongue (yes, those are really their names! Interesting names for interesting plants. Scientifically, they are Dracaena sanderiana, and Sanseveria respectively). The space had a relaxing vibe. Perfect for stopping to smell the roses (yes, I did that literally too). A table sat in the centre of the room, on top of which were neatly organised terrarium ingredients, giving me a sneak glimpse into the fun ahead. I was greeted by Chris and Mitch from the Merchant and Green team, as well as the other students. Our hosts offered us beverages, and we got to know everyone through a bit of light conversation. We flipped through a little book that Chris had recently acquired, all about terrariums. It reminded me of a cookbook, with recipes for the various types of terrariums, containing detailed lists of ingredients, preparation steps, as well as inspiring and appetising photos. We put on our aprons, and dove eagerly into our first course. Second course Chris showed us the various glass containers we could build our terrariums in. We opted for large circular 'fishbowl' vases, though also available were triangular prisms (a bit more challenging), as well as smaller spherical containers, which can be hung. For those who have a bit more time to spare in a more advanced class, larger terrarium containers are a great choice for indulgence - they allow for more plants, and are perfect for events which you don't really want to end too early (think hen's parties and other special occasions, or a fun team outing). Chris explained that we'd be building up our terrarium in layers, and the purpose of each layer. We also saw a finished terrarium, 'one prepared earlier', to get a better sense of the end goal. The first layer is foundation of stones, which encourages sufficient drainage for our little ecosystems. We each chose from smooth white pebbles, river stones of assorted colours and shapes, and smaller grey stones - you could build this layer with one or a combination of these, with each stone type providing a different aesthetic. Of course, there's a bit of finesse required - it isn't just about dumping stones haphazardly into a bowl! The layers have to be of the right thickness and elevation, to ensure that the ecosystem you're building is conducive to healthy plant life, and to ensure that you end up with a visually appealing terrarium. Chris and Mitch made it all easy though, with their detailed instructions and demonstrations. They also gave plenty of one on one advice (and hands-on help) where needed, while still giving us plenty of space to play and explore by ourselves. Third course Next up was a layer of special moss. The moss plays a crucial role in the terrarium, holding any water you put in, to ensure that your little plants can drink up just the way they like to. The moss came in stringy brown fibres, and smelled very earthy, and reminded me of a forest's scent. We made a little mattress with this moss, which was soft and springy, in contrast to the hard rocks just beneath. My 'layer cake' was starting to take shape! Responding to questions, Chris gave some advice on how to water our terrariums, and the best position(s) in our living spaces for them to thrive. We also got to learn a bit about the history of terrariums, on how they came about. Chris was a great conversationalist, and kept us engaged throughout. Learn more about making terrariums here. Fourth course Next, we added a layer of soil, spooning it generously into our vases. Then Mitch brought out the stars of the show - a tray of petite succulents. There was a wide variety to choose from - short, tall, spiky, smooth, dark, light. On this day, there were over 30 plants to choose from. They reminded me of petit fours, due to their size, variety, and cuteness. Some reminded me of a blossoming lotus or camellia, with their intricate and petal-like leaves. We had a hard time choosing from that feast of options, there were just too many pretty choices (and the plants change with every workshop, so no two workshops are exactly the same). Chris gave us some helpful advice as to which plants would best suit each of us. For example, some plants are slightly harder to maintain (I avoided those), while some plants pair particularly well with others. We eventually settled on our choices (I picked out a tall 'jellybean' shrub, as well as a unique succulent with pink-tinged leaves), and gently shook the plants free of their little pot homes. We trimmed their roots down, so that they would fit comfortably into the soil layer that we had just laid down. The plants are quite delicate, and in some cases a few leaves fell off, but not to worry - Chris showed us how you can actually grow new plants from these leaves, using just a moist paper towel as their initial incubator. Then came the planting. Just like normal planting, just in miniature form. We dug out tiny spaces for the roots of our plants, snuggled them in, and back-filled with soil to ensure that they would be nice and secure, and be able to pass the 'wobble test'. Dessert They saved the best for last. It was now time to put our finishing touches on our terrariums. The icing on the cake! Chris showed us a few styling options, and gave us a few ideas. Would we make a little Zen garden, with a clean and symmetric appearance? Or a natural landscape, one you might find by a riverside? With perhaps rolling hills and gentle valleys, to give more depth to our landscapes? We had a wide variety of stones to work with, from large 'feature' stones of various colours, sizes and textures, to the smaller stones that we used for layering before, as well as some mosses. I sprinkled a fine gravel-like mix to cover the soil, and accentuated it with a larger white pebble, as well as a few smaller coloured ones, somewhat randomly scattered, for a natural and contemporary look. I got lost in the moment - it was so much fun designing and playing with my miniature garden. This was the part where you could be really creative and try out different ideas. Just like a chef would dab at a plate with a cloth to clean up its appearance before serving, we too dabbed and finessed to finish off. It was incredible to see everyone else's finished terrariums. From the same set of ingredients, we had each created very different looking enclosed gardens (though all of them looked great). The whole experience was a great chance to just take some time for myself, to get away from technology and closer to nature. If my story sparked your appetite, go ahead and attend one of our future terrarium classes. The team at Merchant and Green also provide lovely workshops on making Kokedama (Japanese-inspired moss balls), as well as flower arranging with Australian natives, and with seasonal blooms. The classes are perfect for individuals, as well as couples, and larger groups. Until next time! Iain for the ClassBento team ...

8 Unique Mothers Day Gift Experiences in Sydney

Gift your mum an experience for Mother's Day and give the best Mother's Day gift of all - time spent with you!

Top Barista Class Types

New to the world of coffee? Read our beginner-friendly guide to find out what you can expect at our barista courses in Sydney.

Tea Brewing Versus Barista Workshops

If you decide you want to become a Barista, you’re in luck. There are tons of classes that offer all different types of Barista training. ButIf you decide you want to become a Barista, you’re in luck. There are tons of classes that offer all different types of Barista training. But what about people who don’t like coffee? Those who prefer a morning green tea rather than a latte? Whilst tea brewing classes are not as common as coffee courses, there are options. In this article, we’ll look the rising trend of tea brewing classes. Tea Brewing Classes First of all, it’s important to understand exactly what a Tea Brewing class might look like. Though there are not as many of these classes as Barista courses, there are a few different types of tea-making courses: Tea Brewing workshop At a standard Tea Brewing class you will learn the best way to brew loose leaf tea. The teacher will outline the best type of water, temperatures and methods to use for different types of tea. You’ll also learn about different equipment for brewing tea and when to use it. Tea Sommelier After learning the basics of tea brewing, you can go on to learn how to become a tea expert. By navigating the history, culture and tasting notes of tea, you’ll be equipped to make recommendations for retail menus. Try out a workshop on how to make the right tea with chocolate or even tea with cheese. You’ll also come away with the ability to recommend food pairings for the tea. Kombucha classes Take your tea brewing one step further and learn to brew Kombucha. This fizzy, fermented tea drink has gained popularity in recent years because of its touted health benefits and it tastes great! Kombucha is made by adding yeast bacteria to green or black tea and fermenting it. But don’t let us tell you how to do it, you’ll learn everything at a Kombucha making class. Tea Specialist classes In the same way that Barista training will prepare you to enter the coffee industry, learning to be a tea specialist will help you get a job in a tea store. In this class you will learn the ins and outs of all the different types of tea. You will need a basic knowledge of tea brewing, which is usually included in these courses. With this foundation, you will be able to recommend products to customers based on their needs. Tea or Coffee? So now that you have a better idea of the topics and training you would cover in a Tea Brewing class. Should you learn how to perfect your tea brewing expertise or your coffee making prowess? which is better? Neither! Do both or do the one that you love! If you are looking into making a career move, smart money would be investing in a Barista training. There are more of these courses available and likely more jobs which need this knowledge. However, if you’re hoping to become a tea aficionado, whether as a hobby or profession, go for the Tea Brewing course and pour your heart and soul into it! ...

Why do a Barista Course in Sydney? (2024)

Jump behind the espresso machine and make the perfect coffee with barista courses in Sydney!

Terrarium Plants

What makes a great terrarium? A classy enclosure (see our other story for ideas). The right soil, stones and internal decor. But most of all of ...

Top 5 Baking Classes for the Weekend

Many pastries may have originated, or gained fame in France, but they’re enjoyed around the world. There are many reasons to take a pastryMany pastries may have originated, or gained fame in France, but they’re enjoyed around the world. There are many reasons to take a pastry class; to enjoy your favourite treats at home, to entertain friends or simply hone your baking skills. Check out these five classes that will teach you how to make your favourite patisseries. 1. Macaron Making You may think that you wouldn’t need to attend a class to make macarons, but they are notoriously difficult to get right. At a macaron class, you will learn the ‘macaronage’ technique. This involves folding the mixture that will make your macaron biscuits. Most bakers agree that getting the correct consistency at this stage will determine whether your macarons turn out well. A good macaron class should put emphasis on this step. You will also learn the piping technique, which is used to produce the biscuit shape and administer the filling. Some macaron classes stick to the French method and advertise as ‘French’ or ‘Parisian’ macarons. Other classes get a little more experimental and you may use different ingredients or make different shapes. In any case, you will get to take your creations home in the form of a box of delicious treats. 2. Croissants As with the macaron, it may not seem difficult to make croissants but you should take a class if you want to make the best croissants. Freshly made pastries beat packaged ones any day, so add them to your repertoire with this course. You’ll learn about the secret ingredient, about yeast and proofing. Once you’ve made the dough, you learn how to roll and fold it to keep the classic crescent moon shape. If the teacher is prepared to get experimental, they may teach you how to make an almond or chocolate-filled croissant. Since proofing takes around 2 hours, you may not get to eat your croissants on the day, but you will be able to take your dough home to cook later. Plus, you're likely to get freshly-prepared croissants during the class, just to give you an idea of what you’re aiming for. These classes are not as common as macaron courses and as such will set you back a little more. 3. Choux Pastries Another classic French staple is the choux pastry. Choux pastry forms the base of many favourite desserts such as eclairs, profiteroles, chouquettes and gougères. The defining characteristic of choux pastry is that it looks like it’s going to be dense, but when you bite into it, it’s light and thin. It takes a special technique to get pastry this way, which involves using steam instead of a raising agent. You’ll learn how to do this at one of these classes. Since choux pastry is easier to make than it seems, some classes will involve trying your hand at both sweet and savoury pastries. A choux pastry class costs similar to a macaron classes and they take less time to make than croissants. 4. Danish Pastries & Pain au Chocolat You will find these desserts offered with croissants as well or as part of a general pastry-baking class. As these sweets are made from puff pastry, they are often covered together. While croissants are also puff pastry based, they use yeast and milk in the dough to create a different effect. In a puff pastry class, you will learn how to make the pastry, how to proof and then cook it. Proofing can be a delicate process and the baker must ensure that the pastry is proofed at the correct temperature. This class will also arm you with the necessary cutting and folding techniques for the dough. Plus, for Danish pastries, you will learn about the different types of filling. Since these classes usually encompass several different type of pastry, the cost is usually a little higher at $200. They’re less likely to be offered as experience classes, so you will be enrolling in a baking school; hence the higher cost. 5. Cinnamon Bun Moving away from France to this North American favourite, you can take a class to learn how to bake the perfect cinnamon bun. You will learn how to make the dough base, the delicious frosting and the sumptuous filling. The class will teach you about the best ingredients and baking method to make cinnamon buns. Not to mention the extra skills you need to produce bakery-standard buns, in the perfect shape. ...

Everything You Need to Know About Macarons

Learn about the history of macarons at baking classes in Sydney It may surprise you to learn that macarons did not originate in France. WeLearn about the history of macarons at baking classes in Sydney It may surprise you to learn that macarons did not originate in France. We imagine that this quintessentially French patisserie could only be the work of a French pastry chef. But, according to historic records, macarons date back to 8th century AD. With the first recorded instances baked in Venetian monasteries. The macaron came to France with Catherine de Medici, when she married King Henry II in 1533. Her pastry chefs continued to make these meringue-based biscuits for her when she moved over to Paris. According to one controversial Encyclopedia entry, it was two French nuns who invented macarons. The text claims that the dessert gained popularity when two Sisters baked and sold macarons during the French Revolution. They used their venture as a way to fund their housing while they were seeking asylum. Yet, those macarons were not the ganache-filled treat we know today. Those macarons were two meringue cookies atop one another, without any filling. As with the invention of the original macaron, there is a discrepancy about how the modern version was invented as well. Two French chefs claimed to have invented the sweet fillings; Claude Gebert and Pierre Desfontaines of Ladurée. They are both credited with having introduced a third layer to the sweet in the early 20th century. French or Italian Recipe? Although macarons originated in Italy, some 17th century Italian cookbooks include ‘French Macaron’ recipes. In any case, there are two distinct methods to making macarons; the Italian way and the French way. The difference comes from the meringue part of the recipe; specifically when to add sugar. The French recipe calls for egg whites to be whisked into meringue shapes before powdered sugar is folded in. The Italian method includes adding sugar to raw egg whites to make a paste. Today, the accepted method to bake macarons is closest to the French recipe. Ladurée Although macarons didn’t originate in France, we have a French patisserie to thank for their lasting popularity. Ladurée has been around for over 150 years. It was founded in 1862 by writer, Louis-Ernest Ladurée. The original location burned down during a late 19th Century uprising, so a second popped up. It was at the second location that the founder’s second cousin, Pierre Desfontaines, created the ‘Double decker’ macaron. This refers to two traditional macarons on top of one another bound together by a creamy, usually ganache or buttercream, filling. The steady increase of these stores outside France attests to how popular the macaron has become. Ladurée is now present in almost 20 cities in Europe and many countries across four more continents. International Interpretations Keeping with the tradition of adapting the original recipe, may other cultures now produce their own versions of the dessert. In the States, the composition of macarons remains the same, but the flavours are much more experimental. In France, you will find classics such as pistachio, raspberry and chocolate. In the US you can buy peanut butter and jelly, pumpkin, cheesecake and candy corn. In Southeast Asian countries, recipes substitute traditional ingredients for local variations. Almond flour is substituted for peanut flower in Japan. Taiwanese recipes incorporate red beans and South Korean recipes use green tea leaves or powder. Discover the best types of macarons here. Pop Culture In Japan, where food can be cute, the macaron is a popular print for fashion items, stationery and even bedding. Simple and colourful, they decorate clothing and accessories along with other foods such as fruit and sushi. In their attempts to create a more upscale image, McDonalds’ McCafe branches sell macarons in France and Australia. Interestingly, they are produced by a company owned by the same holding company as Ladurée. Yet, they don’t use the same recipe; McDonalds has a more limited flavour menu than Ladurée, offering six classic flavours. Ladurée, whilst not as experimental as some US macaron producers, does offer a wider range of French favourites. These include speculoos, rose and salted caramel. ...

Learn How to Make Macarons in Sydney

Learn how to make macarons at fun baking classes in Sydney. French or Parisian Macaron What people often refer to as a ‘Parisian’Learn how to make macarons at fun baking classes in Sydney. French or Parisian Macaron What people often refer to as a ‘Parisian’ or ‘French’ macaron is the traditional recipe. That is, two meringue biscuits on top of one another with a sweet filling. Usually ganache, buttercream, smooth cream or caramel. They are easy to make but you must adhere closely to the recipe, otherwise they could end up with an undesirable appearance or texture. To make any variation of the macaron, you should first acquaint yourself with the basic recipe or alternatively if you dare you could book a class with MakMak's macaron making class in sydney If not then read on! How to make macaron shells: Whisk egg whites until they form meringue. You will know you’re at this point when you lift the whisk out of the bowl and it leaves stiff peaks. Add any food colouring or flavour at this point. Process almonds in a blender until smooth. You can also combine powdered sugar in the blender too. Sift this mixture well to get rid of any clumps. Fold the sifted almond granules and powdered sugar into the meringue. Continue to fold until you achieve a shaving foam consistency. Using a piping bag, pipe the mixture in the desired size onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Leave around an inch between each shell. Tap the baking sheets firmly a couple of times to release any air bubbles. Leave to stand at room temperature for 30 minutes until the shells form a skin. Bake for 10-12 minutes at 325 F until they have risen and set. Let them cool before adding the filling. How to make a macaron buttercream filling: Cream butter until it’s smooth. Then mix in powdered sugar, vanilla and milk until fluffy. Using a piping bag, pipe the filling onto one shell and gently compress both shells together. Various fillings You may want to change up your fillings depending on the flavour of the macaron whether sweet, savoury or a fruity flavour. For instance for a savoury macaron a common substitution for buttercream is cream cheese, which you can also make from scratch. You could get really experimental and see how smooth peanut butter or lemon curd work. Anything that has a thick, pasty consistency could work. But be sure to steer clear of ingredients with high moisture contents such as whipped cream or ice cream, as these will dissolve the shells. Make sure you’re gentle when adding a filling; they are delicate and pressing too hard could crush them. Different Shapes If you think that you’re a pretty skilled baker, or have mastered the simple macaron, try experimenting with different shapes. MakMak’s CEO Carlos the “Mak” daddy of macrons can give you your first steps in creating some amazing macarons with his macaron making class. If you’re game you could make animals, flowers or even other food shapes with macarons. Similarly, another Toronto baker, Christopher Siu creates macaron characters, including some faces you might recognise. To make these macarons, follow the basic recipe. When it comes to piping out the mixture, you would need to pipe it into the desired shape. To achieve the desired colour, add food colouring in while you’re folding the dry ingredients into the egg whites. Be careful though, these treats may end up being too adorable to eat. Taste test more of the best baking classes in Sydney here. Bonus: Macaroons People often confuse macarons and macaroons, thinking that they’re the same thing. In fact, if you google ‘macaroon’ you will still see results for macarons. But macaroons are a coconut based sweet, which is chewy on the inside with a crisp exterior. They are quite different from the traditional French macaron. The Anglicised pronunciation of ‘macaron’ often lends to the confusion. Start by mixing sweetened condensed milk, shaved coconut flakes and vanilla extract until well combined. Then whisk egg whites and salt, the way you would to get meringue. Add the two mixtures together and fold. Scoop small dollops of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking tray. Then bake at 325 F for 25 minutes. For some extra sweetness, dip the bottom of the macaroons in melted chocolate and then refrigerate for 10 minutes. Let the chocolate set and enjoy. Macaron Troubleshooting Tips Anyone who has attempted to make macarons will know that they don’t always turn out well. In fact, they often turn out less than perfect, since the margin for error could occur at any time throughout the baking process. Here’s what to look for if your macarons aren’t quite up to the Ladurée standard: Peaks on the shell. This can happen when the dry ingredients were not sifted enough or the batter was under-mixed. Cracked shell. This happens when the batter is overmixed. Uneven Shell. The batter is too liquidy or under-beaten. Too Crispy. The shells were left in the oven too long. ...

Terrarium Making Ideas

Terrariums are a great outlet for your creativity - there are just so many different ways you can put them together. Here are some of our favouriteTerrariums are a great outlet for your creativity - there are just so many different ways you can put them together. Here are some of our favourite designs. Wall-mounted terrariums Use magnetic metal containers, and stick your terrariums to your walls. Free up your desk space and build your vertical gardens. Pair your terrariums with some funky wall hangings or other home decor. Terrariums in light bulbs How's that for a light bulb moment? (Sorry, that was too easy!). Instead of throwing your burnt out light bulbs, why not give them a new life? Food-inspired terrariums A perfect way to add some chic earthiness to your table. Beyond tea cups and cake stands, you can easily extend on this concept by doing terrariums in glass water jugs, cookie jars, soft drink bottles, spice containers, glass teapots, old coffee plungers - sky's the limit. Recycle those beautiful old containers and don't let them go to waste! Hanging terrariums Perfect for your veranda or balcony, or even as a room's centrepiece, as a modern version of a chandelier. Coastal terrariums There are lots of themes you can explore with terrariums, but a classic is the coastal theme. Succulents are the star, and you can add seaside pebbles, sand and little shells to complete the look. If you you're a bit far from the coast, this is a great way to bring a taste of the ocean to your home or workplace. Feminine terrariums Terrariums are great no matter your gender, age or background, but certainly if you want to amp up the femininity, try adding some flowers and perhaps some marble. Focus your plant selection for an amber-pink hue, and you'll have a pretty terrarium any lady would be proud of. That's it for now! Join a terrarium class Excited? If you're in Sydney, you're in luck. Jump into our beginner's terrarium workshop, or if you're already comfortable with the basics, try a more advanced terrarium class. Want a customised terrarium workshop to try one of the designs we've mentioned? Just contact our terrarium master Chris Saban and you'll be on your way. Know of any other interesting terrarium designs that you want to see on this list? Let us know! Happy terrarium making! ...

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How to Make a Terrarium DIY

Succulents are the ideal household plant, and terrariums are a great home for them. Try out Sydney's most highly rated succulent terrariumSucculents are the ideal household plant, and terrariums are a great home for them. Try out Sydney's most highly rated succulent terrarium class and make one yourself. Succulent plants are a popular choice for modern Australian homes and gardens, due to their high-tolerance of various weather conditions, including life indoors. Teeming with water which is stored in leaves, roots and stems, these low-maintenance plants thrive almost everywhere, making them the ideal décor to spruce up a basic veranda or courtyard during the steamy summer months. Alternatively, owners can place succulents indoors, near windows to shower them with natural light. Pry through a gallery of frilled, spined and flower embellished succulents to liven up the indoors; opt for pincushion cactei dotted in beautiful hues of pink or perhaps a variegated zebra plant to match household décor. The number of succulent garden compositions are unlimited, choose from colours, shapes and sizes to adorn a bookend, hanging wall frame, wreath, pot, birdcage or terrarium. Not to mention the health benefits of indoor plants, such as the aloe vera plant, which produces cleaner air, lowers the risk of illness, boosts one’s mood and has potential to enhance concentration and memory. Despite their low-maintenance reputation, succulents thrive under a balanced upkeep. Refrain from over-watering when attending to your succulent garden, a common mistake among owners who overcompensate with a plant able to tolerate prolonged drought. Instead, make sure to check the soil moisture level with your fingers and water only when dry. Water or mist succulents at least once per week. Position them wisely with for time in shade each day, as succulents can burn when exposed to too much sunlight. Use a gentle formula once per month to fertilise. Do not combine succulents with non-desert dwelling plants Making your own succulent garden is therapeutic and rewarding activity to fill a morning or afternoon and doesn’t require any prior expertise. Adorning your home with a succulent garden can have aesthetically pleasing benefits for the inside of your home, as well as health benefits. The terrarium making experience can be shared with others and doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Encourage family and friends to take part in a terrarium workshop with Christoper Saban, Creative Director of ‘Merchant and Green’ who conducts beginner workshops in Sydney, catering for plant-lovers looking to design and create their very own succulent garden. Christopher, who has over fifteen years’ experience as a floral decorator and stylist provides all plants and equipment, and caters to all skill levels. Equip yourself with a pyramid or quad glass container, choose from a wide variety of mini succulents, toy with vase river stones, dirty your hands with moss and soil and create the perfect environment for your plants to thrive. Make a terrarium today. ...

Top Baby Shower Ideas

An afternoon of tummy-rubs from enthused relatives, tiny gender neutral socks and disgruntled eternally-single friends beaming from across the roomAn afternoon of tummy-rubs from enthused relatives, tiny gender neutral socks and disgruntled eternally-single friends beaming from across the room in a feigned act of felicitations - all gather in honour of the greatly anticipated newborn. The baby shower in Sydney. Overwhelmed with the ceaseless stream of advice from tired mothers and unwrapping gift after gift straight out of the first four pages of the ‘Baby Kingdom’ catalogue, you wonder if there’s an alternative to the predictable baby shower schedule. ClassBento have just the afternoon for you, with plenty workshops replacing small talk with environments promoting learning, creativity or simply meditative or therapeutic rest during the testing pregnancy months. Zen and the Art of Block Printing Join Rowan Sivyer, watercolour artist and printmaker, in carving your way to peace in her Block Printing workshop. Rowan, who carves as a form of meditation, encourages students to reignite their creative streak with the simple act of wielding tools to cut rubber. The art is a powerful de-stressor, inexpensive and doesn’t require a lot of space. In Rowan’s workshop, you will learn the process of designing, carving and printing, as well as techniques and tips for creating simple blocks, layering stamps and repeating tile stamps. In the workshop, parents-to-be, friends and family can enjoy one another’s company whilst designing and carving a small rubber block to create beautiful stationery with. Chocolate Making Aspiring chocolatier? Gather the Birthday Shower party and try a Chocolate Making workshop with 'Adora Handmade Chocolates', a company who have won numerous gold and silver awards and whose unique chocolates have earnt the respect of establishments among the likes of the Sydney Opera House who, in response to great demand, Adora supply to regularly. Learn about the history and benefits of great quality chocolate, made with the freshest ingredients including Belgian Callebaut chocolate and espresso coffee, minus the added preservatives or artificial flavours. Walk away with a knowledge of how to make signature butter truffles and temper chocolate in the two hour workshop. Succulent Garden Workshop Thick and fleshy, succulents are low-maintenance plants that come in variety of colours, shapes and sizes and have the potential to add a smidgen of personality to the no doubt highly debated nursery in months pre-birth. Follow Christopher Saban’s step-by-step guide to building your own terrarium garden in his ‘Succulent Terrarium’ workshop. Christopher, creative decorator of ‘Merchant and Green’ has over fifteen years’ experience as a floral decorator and stylist and will provide you with all materials required. Choose from a Pyramid or Quad glass container, layer with vase river stones, moss, soil and mini succulents to create the perfect environment for your plants to thrive. Cake Decorating Between fiercely jotting down the titles of baby books from enthusiastic relatives and unwrapping of baby bottles, there is time for cake. And whilst the thought of simply sitting back and indulging in rich chocolate cake may sound appealing to the lethargic mother-to-be, a group task which encourages the entire family to get involved, such as cake decorating, may just spice up the afternoon in a way which does not deprive anyone of cake, but merely forces them to appreciate it. Jo, from ‘Wendy Jo Baking’, who is known for her creative cakes and beautiful and elegant design, will see you and the baby shower party licking your fingers, layer and stack double barrel cakes, spread swiss meringue buttercream, experiment with watercolour effects, apply gold leaf, prepare and arrange flower decoration and temper chocolate in her finger-licking workshop. Celebrate the mother or father to be by helping them share a passion or learn a new skill with a ClassBento workshop. We have a great variety of classes to suit a diverse range of tastes, budgets and group sizes, and our experienced teachers are here to help make your baby shower that little bit more special. With a new bub on the way, the baby shower is the perfect time to take a minute to remember the joy of making, and our ClassBento workshops ensure all your guests will leave with a great new skill. They also help to get everyone involved in the fun, making them a great way to share the occasion with friends and family. ...

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ClassBento's blog on workshops, mindfulness, hobbies and more.