Three things you should know when you’re going out to eat in Spain

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So what is it about Spanish cuisine that everybody’s talking about?You’ll see that how we cook, when we eat, and who we eat with, are all quite special. If so far you've been happy to settle for a delicious paella, a tasty potato omelette, or learning how to bread croquettes, then you've still got lots to discover. Each region, province and city, and almost every town and village, have interesting and unexpected dishes. Trying Spanish cuisine means trying artisan products, fresh flavours, and above all local produce. Savour the contrasts between sea and mountains, cultivated and wild foods. Get ready to discover a whole world of customs, expressions, and quirky facts, as well of course as the most delicious dishes. Three tips to make your trip even better:

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1. Never say no to “ir a tomar el vermú”

“Tomar el vermú” (literally, “to drink vermouth”) means spending quality time with family and friends and enjoying some tasty tapas and a drink before lunch. Tapas are small portions of food that are served with drinks. Take a seat on a café terrace in the sunshine and get ready to try the tortilla de patatas (Spanish potato omelette), jamón ibérico (Iberian ham), croquetas caseras (homemade croquettes) and pescaíto frito (small, deep-fried fish). Decide what to start off with and try everything. Going out for lunch? Why not go out for tapas instead?

Typical vermouth with a tapa of croquettes

2. Bread is all you need...

You’ll learn to use bread as a knife, fork, spoon or even a plate. Try migas, a delicious dish made with dry bread, longaniza, bacon, onion, garlic, sweet paprika and salt. Whether it’s a baguette, borona (cornbread), payés (crusty country style bread), sweet or savoury, never forget the bread.

3. If you’re looking for something refreshing, how about a gazpacho?

Cool down with this delicious Spanish dish. It’s a cold soup. A classic dish not to be missed that’s made with fresh, natural ingredients: tomato, cucumber, onion, olive oil, garlic, and a little bread. Feeling peckish?

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