Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
A Canarian mojo workshop is a hands-on activity in which a local cook teaches you to make the islands’ typical sauces, such as red mojo (mojo rojo or picón) and green mojo (mojo verde), and to cook papas arrugadas (Canarian wrinkly potatoes) to go with them. It usualland thests between an hour and a half and two and a half hours, and ends with a tasting.
It is a hands-on way to get to know Canarian cooking and take a recipe home with you. This page helps you choose the format.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Hands-on workshop on mojos and Canarian cooking |
| Duration | Roughly 1.5–2.5 hours on the offers reviewed |
| What you make | Red mojo (rojo or picón), green mojo (with coriander or parsley) and papas arrugadas; sometimes other dishes |
| Group | Around 12 people at some workshops; private ones too |
| Tasting | What you have made, often with Canarian produce and wine |
| Formats | At a winery, a cookery school or your accommodation |
| Previous experience | Not needed |
| Price | Depends on the format, the duration and what is included |
What you learn
- Red mojo (rojo or picón): made with red pepper, garlic, cumin, oil and vinegar.
- Green mojo (mojo verde): with coriander or parsley.
- Papas arrugadas: small potatoes boiled in plenty of salt until the skin wrinkles.
- Other recipes, at some workshops: almogrote, dishes with gofio or seasonal cooking.
The role of the vinegar and the proportion of garlic and pepper are usually the focus of the explanation. Every household has its own recipe, and much of the interest lies in learning those variations.
Three formats
| Format | What it includes | Suits you if… |
|---|---|---|
| Workshop at a winery | Workshop, winery visit and wine tasting; sometimes lunch | You want to combine cooking and wine |
| Cookery school | Class with a chef, sometimes with several Canarian recipes | You are interested in cooking beyond mojo |
| Private class | A chef at your villa or accommodation | Groups, families or celebrations |
If you would rather taste without cooking, see the Tenerife food tour.
What happens
- Introduction to the ingredients and the history of mojo.
- Preparation of two or three mojos, individually or in pairs.
- Cooking the papas arrugadas.
- Tasting with Canarian produce and, at some workshops, wine.
- Recipe to take home.
Who it suits
- People who enjoy cooking or want to learn local recipes.
- Families with children, at workshops that allow it.
- Groups or companies looking for a hands-on activity.
- Travellers who want a useful food souvenir.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Anyone looking for a full meal: some workshops only include the tasting.
- Allergies or intolerances: mojos contain garlic, cumin and sometimes nuts; let them know beforehand.
- Anyone who does not want alcohol: ask about alternatives if the workshop includes wine.
How to choose well
- Which mojos and dishes do you make?
- Does each person cook, or is it a demonstration?
- How long does it last, and what does the tasting include?
- Does it include wine, a winery visit or lunch?
- Group size and language?
- Can children take part?
- How do you get there? Many workshops are in the north.
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients and equipment | Included | — |
| Tasting | Included | What it includes |
| Wine | At some workshops | Alcohol-free alternative |
| Recipe | Common | Language |
| Transport | Not usually included | How to get there |
Safety
- Allergies: let them know in advance.
- Utensils: mortars and knives are used; keep an eye on children.
- Alcohol: if there is wine and you are driving, do not drink.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Format: winery, school or private.
- Duration and number of recipes.
- Wine, visit or lunch included.
- Group or private.
What to bring
- Comfortable clothes you do not mind getting stained.
- A container to take some mojo home, if allowed.
- An appetite.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Tasting Canarian produce without cooking | Tenerife food tour |
| Home cooking with the grower’s own wine | Guachinche route |
| Visiting a winery with a tasting | Winery visit and tasting |
| Wine tasting at your accommodation | Private Canarian wine tasting |
Frequently asked questions
What is mojo?
A typical Canarian sauce. The best known are red mojo (rojo or picón) and green mojo.
Do I need to know how to cook?
No. The workshops are designed for people with no experience.
How long does it last?
Between an hour and a half and two and a half hours, depending on the format.
Do you eat what you make?
Yes, with papas arrugadas and other Canarian produce.
Can children take part?
It depends on the workshop. Ask about it.
Do I get the recipe?
At most workshops, yes.