While we think of Spain’s grand architecture, lively festivals and beautiful beaches, we shouldn’t forget about the delicious food. You can’t finish a Spain Tour without experiencing the delicious food. There are many dishes in Spain that highlight the country’s different backgrounds, unusual foods and age-old customs.
When you visit Madrid’s markets, spend a peaceful moment in Seville’s plazas or enjoy the views of Valencia’s beaches, you’re sure to find a new taste. This blog suggests nine local foods you should try in Spain to make your trip special.
Here are the 9 Local Foods You Must Try in Spain
1. Paella Valenciana
Paella Valenciana is a rice dish from Valencia that is much loved in Spain. Usually, this dish is made by sautéing saffron-flavored rice with chicken, rabbit and occasionally snails, along with vegetables and olive oil. Though people worldwide enjoy many varieties of seafood, the original Valencian recipe is still a favorite. This meal is satisfying not just for its taste, but also for its pretty appearance which makes it a favorite for sharing with loved ones.
2. Tapas
Spanish dining and culture are not complete without tapas. At bars and restaurants, you can order small plates that allow you to sample several dishes at once. Olives, patatas bravas, croquettes and garlic shrimp are popular choices when dining at a tapas place. Tapas are traditionally shared, so they create a friendly and carefree setting for any casual night out. No matter where you are in Spain, you’ll find a unique twist to the food, making it a fun experience.
3. Jamón Ibérico
Jamón Ibérico is a favorite dish that is treasured in Spanish cuisine. Aged for a long time from black Iberian pigs, this ham becomes soft and develops a rich, nutty taste. When it’s sliced thin, it’s often served on a wooden platter or with a glass of wine from the area. Meat lovers should give it a try, as you can find it in markets, fancy restaurants and even at local tapas places all over Spain.
4. Gazpacho
This soup is ideal for hot days because it is made from fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, garlic and olive oil. It is a tasty and healthy dish that people usually serve in small bowls or glasses. This Andalusian soup, Gazpacho, is an excellent example of how Spanish food loves to use simple, fresh foods. It has a light taste, is tangy and is filled with garden-fresh flavors, so it’s perfect for starting any meal in the spring and summer.
5. Tortilla Española
Tortilla Española is simply an omelet made from eggs, potatoes and onions. When the eggs are slowly fried in olive oil, they become thick and golden and the inside is creamy. You can enjoy it warm or cold and it is common to serve it as a small dish, snack or a main dish. Few dishes offer the same comfort as tapas, since it’s served everywhere from homes to cafes and bars.
6. Churros con Chocolate
Enjoying Churros with Chocolate is the ultimate treat in Spain. They are served as crunchy sticks on the outside and soft inside, usually sprinkled with sugar and accompanied by a cup of rich hot chocolate. Many people like to eat churros either for breakfast or as a snack in the afternoon. You can enjoy this sweet item from a street vendor or in a café and it’s perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.
7. Pulpo a la Gallega
This dish, called Pulpo a la Gallega, originates in the northwest of Galicia. An octopus is boiled, sliced and served on a wooden plate with olive oil, sea salt and smoked paprika. The meal is usually served with boiled potatoes which take in the delicious juices. Seafood lovers will appreciate the soft texture and the tasty smoky, savory flavor of the dish. It’s a straightforward dish that brings out the best of the Spanish coast.
8. Fabada Asturiana
Fabada Asturiana is a hearty dish that originates from the Asturias region of Spain. It uses large white beans, chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage) and pork shoulder, all slow-cooked to delicious perfection. This recipe is enjoyed most in colder weather and is loved by locals when they spend time with their families. Thanks to its hearty taste and good texture, Fabada Asturiana is a reminder of rural Spain and is best eaten in the mountains.
9. Pimientos de Padrón
The little green peppers from Galicia are seared in olive oil and garnished with sea salt, still whole and with their stems left on. Usually, fruit is sweet, but every so often, you get a spicy one which is a pleasant surprise to many. They are most often eaten as a side dish or tapa and people enjoy them for their simple and fresh taste. Serve Pimientos de Padrón hot and slightly burnt to share with your friends or family as a snack.
Conclusion
Spain is an ideal place to visit for its art, history, views and, most importantly, its delicious food. All of the dishes listed above give you a special taste of Spanish culture, from the rich Paella Valenciana to the simple Tortilla Española. Enjoying Spanish food is an important way to immerse oneself in the country’s unique lifestyle.
By going on a Spain Tour Package, you can ensure you enjoy the country’s best food. With guided tours, useful tips and local eateries included, a tour package makes exploring Spain’s cuisine easy for you. Enjoy every meal, visit every place and remember the good times like they were delicious.