Bridgeworthy: Singing in the Rain at Rancho La Puerta

Rancho La Puerta, voted World's Best Destination Spa by the readers of Travel & Leisure magazine, is an extraordinary place. The 3,000-acre property in Tecate, Baja California, Mexico, features an amazing program of fitness activities, healthful cuisine, luxury spa amenities, superb accommodations in private casitas, lush landscaped gardens and secluded sanctuaries, an organic farm, internationally known cooking school, and mountainsides and meadows of great hiking and walking experiences.

La Cucina que Canta is a culinary institution that has fast become the "it" place of many of the most famous teaching chefs and cookbook authors.  Guest instructors in the past years have included Rick Bayless, Deborah Madison, Patricia Wells, John Ash, and many more. The school itself is located in the midst of the ranch's six-acre organic farm that climbs the fertile hillside at the foot of Mt. Kuchumaa.

There were about 10 guests participating in the cooking class. Preparation stations were set up around the kitchen island, complete with knives, cutting boards, fresh produce, printed recipes, and everything required to prepare our five course dinner. Most of the produce was freshly picked from the organic farm, just outside the kitchen. The class was divided into teams and then put to work chopping, measuring, mixing, marinading, blanching, rolling, sauteing, and baking, with the assistance of Chefs Bernard and Roa, and the friendly kitchen team.

Ahi Tuna Lollipop with Ginger Macadamia Sauce



Salade Gourmande du Gros with Banyl Hazelnut Vinaigrette



Portobello Mushroom Bisque with Truffle Oil, Pine Nuts, and Lemon Greek Yogurt

Almond Tatsoi Crusted Halibut with Plum Tomato Sambal, Sweet Soy, and Quinoa Heart of Palm Salad

Hibiscus Infused Lemon Tart with an Almond Cumin Crust