10 dishes to sample in Spain
They say that there is no love more sincere than the love of food, and that you never really know a country until you try its gastronomy. So come to Spain and let yourself fall in love with its Mediterranean diet. Whether you're travelling north, south, on the coast or inland, there's a delicious dish waiting for you in every corner of Spain. Read on and get ready to work up an appetite!
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Valencia: the land of paella
There is no doubt: Of all Spanish paellas, the Valencian paella is the most authentic. Rice, chicken, rabbit, vegetables, snails, tomato and saffron. A combination of flavors that will blow your mind. In particular, you have to try the “socarrat”, the toasted layer of rice that forms in the last few minutes of cooking... a real treat!
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Galicia: Galician empanada
If you travel to Galicia, you have to try their empanadas. They are made with a thin pastry filled with different ingredients, although tuna with peppers is particularly popular. A very simple and great-tasting dish that you're sure to love.
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The Basque Country: cod al pil pil
One of the gems of Basque gastronomy is cod al pil pil. Of course, it is cooked in olive oil, which, when mixed with the gelatins in the cod, creates the famous thick sauce. Garlic and chilli pepper are also a must: a dish with an unmistakable character.
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Catalonia: enjoy its calçotadas
If you visit Catalonia in January, February or March, you're in luck! During these months, Catalan people make the most of the season for calçots, a type of onion roasted over a charcoal grill. The best part, of course, is eating them: prepare to get your fingers dirty, and don't forget to dip your calçots in romesco sauce.
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Castile-La Mancha: the authentic Manchego pisto
How can something so simple be so delicious? This is the question you will ask yourself after tasting the Manchego pisto. It consists of a stew made with tomatoes and peppers. A healthy and balanced dish that is usually topped with a delicious fried egg... bon appétit!
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Madrid: experience its cocido
If you are a lover of soups and stews, this cocido madrileño (Madrid-style stew) is always a hit. Discover this stew made with chickpeas, vegetables, meat and bacon. Served in a clay pot, it is a gastronomic experience you can't miss.
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Extremadura: you will love their migas
If you like bread, you have to try the migas extremeñas. Day-old bread, chorizo, paprika from La Vera, garlic, parsley, salt and olive oil. In Spain, cuisine that makes good use of leftovers turns out to be a true delicacy.
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Andalusia: try the gazpacho
The heat of southern Spain begs for a recipe as refreshing as Andalusian gazpacho. A tomato-based dish that, aside from being nutritious, is incredibly tasty.
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Balearic Islands: the best ensaimadas
If you have a sweet tooth, this traditional dessert from the Balearic Islands is for you. A sugary pastry with different fillings such as angel hair, cream, custard or even chocolate. No matter the variety you choose, all ensaimadas are delicious!
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Canary Islands: papas arrugadas
This typical Spanish dish is the tapa par excellence in the Canary Islands. Potatoes from the Canary Islands cooked with lots of sea salt and served with mojo picón, which can be a spicy reddish sauce made from peppers or a green sauce made from coriander and garlic. Although Spanish gastronomy has great variety, all Spanish dishes have something in common: they always leave you craving more. What are you waiting for?