Lope AriyoCookery School
Blend your own yaji — the smoky, peanut-forward spice behind suya — at a 30-minute pop-up workshop in Spitalfields.
Where this peanut-based ingredient comes from and how it's made — the building block of yaji.
How kuli kuli combines with the rest of the spice blend to give yaji its unmistakable smoky, peanut-forward profile.
How to use yaji in dressings, finishing salts, and even desserts.
Free to attend — book a slot to secure your spot.
All ingredients and equipment are provided.
Small sessions of 4 people, lasting 30 minutes each.
Contains peanuts — not suitable for those with nut allergies.
Suitable for beginners — no prior experience needed.
Allergen notes: Contains peanuts — not suitable for those with nut allergies.
to be informed about new dates
Unfortunately not. This is a hands-on cooking class and we do not have a waiting area for non-participating guests. Everyone attending needs a ticket and must be actively participating in the class. For group celebrations, a private event booking is the best option as it gives your whole group a dedicated experience.
This class is new — here's what guests say about our other classes.
Reviewed via ClassBento
“The teacher, Lope, was absolutely lovely, and her amazing knowledge and passion for Nigerian cooking really shone through. The steps were easy to follow, and I was delighted with the delicious Jollof rice, chicken, coleslaw and plantain I made. I also thought it was a fantastic idea that you can enjoy a portion there and take another portion home to enjoy later. It was such a fun and enjoyable experience, and I would 100% recommend it to anyone considering booking!”
Simi Jaji · Attended September 2026
London, UK
Reviewed via ClassBento
“Great class. Children thoroughly enjoyed it. Loved the food.”
Grace Hendry · Attended August 2026
London, UK
Reviewed via ClassBento
“Lope delivered an exceptional cooking class from start to finish. The session was incredibly well prepared, thoughtfully structured, and struck the perfect balance between cultural insight, practical teaching, and hands-on participation. What made the experience especially memorable were the wonderful Nigerian treats she included, which beautifully complemented the cooking and gave us an even richer appreciation of Nigerian cuisine and hospitality. Lope's calm energy, professional approach, and deep knowledge immediately put everyone at ease. She broke each step down thoroughly, explaining not just what to do, but why, making the recipes accessible even for complete beginners. Her teaching style was highly practical, engaging, and encouraging throughout. By the end of the class, we all walked away feeling confident that we could recreate Amala and Abula ourselves. It was an enjoyable, authentic, and incredibly well-delivered experience that I would wholeheartedly recommend to anyone interested in Nigerian food and culture. Thank you, Lope, for such a fantastic class!”
Obi James · Attended June 2026
Verified attendee
“Fantastic host, nice teaching style. Clear and warm.”
Seun Onasanya · Attended June 2026
London, UK
Reviewed via ClassBento
“Very helpful class, feel confident to cook the dishes after attending.”
Summer Hoilett Okosun · Attended May 2026
Reviewed via ClassBento
“Had such a good time at the class, Lope was very knowledgeable about the cooking process, the culture behind the food and talked us through each step. We each had our station in pairs which meant you could follow along easily, I loved the eating and community spirit, really lovely bunch of people and Lope our host was incredible, highly recommend”
Lola Lawal · Attended May 2026
