Gastronomía

A Feast for the Palate

To talk about Spain is to talk about food. Gastronomy is a fundamental part of the culture, based on the Mediterranean diet, the quality of its products, and an amazing regional diversity. Each region is a culinary universe to be discovered, but there are pillars that define Spanish cuisine as a whole.

Platos Imprescindibles

Iberian Ham

The crown jewel. Sourced from free-range Iberian pigs raised in the 'dehesas', its flavor, aroma, and texture are inimitable. Hand-carved into thin slices, it's a delicacy that melts in your mouth. The 'de bellota' (acorn-fed) is the highest expression of quality.

Valencian Paella (and other rice dishes)

Although the authentic paella is from Valencia (with chicken, rabbit, and vegetables), Spain is the country of rice dishes. From 'arroz negro' (black rice) with squid, 'arroz a banda' (fish-based rice), to 'arroz brotho' (brothy rice) with lobster. It is a celebratory dish, meant to be shared on Sundays with family or friends.

Spanish Omelette (Potato Omelette)

The humble dish that wins all hearts. A simple yet delicious combination of eggs, potatoes, and, for the eternal national debate, with or without onion. Juicy on the inside, golden on the outside, it can be enjoyed as a tapa, in a sandwich, or as a main dish at any time of day.

Gazpacho and Salmorejo

The cold soups of the south, perfect for summer. Andalusian gazpacho is a liquid soup of tomato, pepper, cucumber, and garlic. Cordoban salmorejo is thicker and creamier, made mainly with tomato and bread, and is usually served with shaves of ham and hard-boiled eggs.

Galician-Style Octopus (Pulpo a la Gallega)

A classic from Galicia that has spread throughout the country. The octopus is boiled until tender, cut into slices, and served on a bed of boiled potatoes, generously seasoned with paprika, coarse salt, and extra virgin olive oil. Simple, rustic, and delicious.

Garlic Shrimp

One of the most popular and delicious tapas. It consists of fresh shrimp sautéed over high heat in a clay dish with plenty of olive oil, sliced ​​garlic, and chili pepper. It is served bubbling and is perfect for dipping bread.

Bebidas Típicas

Wine

Spain is a global wine powerhouse. Designations of Origin like Rioja and Ribera del Duero are famous for their robust reds. Rueda for its crisp whites, Jerez for its unique fortified wines, and Penedès for Cava, the Spanish sparkling wine.

Sangria and Tinto de Verano

The quintessential summer drinks. Sangría is a preparation based on red wine, chopped fruit, a liquor, and sugar. 'Tinto de Verano' is simpler and more refreshing: red wine mixed with soda water or lemon-flavored soda.

Cider

The emblematic drink of Asturias and the Basque Country. It is a low-alcohol beverage made from fermented apple. In Asturias, the ritual of 'escanciarla' (pouring it from a height to oxygenate it) is quite a spectacle.

Vermouth (Vermouth)

The quintessential aperitif, especially on weekends before lunch. This aromatized wine is traditionally served with ice and a slice of orange or an olive. 'Vermouth hour' is a social institution in many cities.

Dulces Tradicionales

Churros with Chocolate

The perfect breakfast or snack, especially on a cold day. Churros are fried dough, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, dipped in a cup of thick, hot chocolate. An addictive delicacy.

Catalan Cream

A dessert similar to the French crème brûlée, but with a citrusy touch of lemon and cinnamon. It consists of a custard topped with a layer of caramelized sugar that you crack with a spoon. It's the star dessert of Catalonia.

Cake of St. James

A dense and moist cake made from ground almonds, without flour, typical of Galicia. It is easily recognized by the Cross of Saint James dusted with powdered sugar on its surface.

Rice Pudding

A classic, creamy, and comforting homemade dessert. It is made by slowly cooking rice in milk with sugar, a cinnamon stick, and lemon peel. It is served cold and often sprinkled with cinnamon powder.