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Spanish cuisine is a delicious and vibrant mix of flavours, regional influences and deep-rooted traditions. From the Mediterranean coasts to the inland, Spain offers a variety of typical dishes that delight palates around the world. In this article, you can discover some of the most iconic and tasty dishes Spanish cuisine has to offer.
The 6 most popular dishes of Spanish cuisine
- Paella: We begin our journey in the region of Valencia, the birthplace of the famous paella. This dish, which combines rice with a mixture of seafood, chicken, rabbit and a generous amount of saffron, captures the essence of the Mediterranean in every bite. Its presentation in a large paella pan makes it a visual and gastronomic feast perfect for sharing among friends and family.
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- Tapas: Tapas are a unique Spanish culinary tradition that has transcended borders. These small plates offer a variety of flavours and textures, from marinated olives and Serrano ham to ham and cheese croquettes and patatas bravas (fried potatoes with hot sauce). Tapas encourage socialising and allow diners to sample a wide range of flavours in one meal.
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- Gazpacho: Gazpacho is a refreshing and healthy dish originating from Andalusia. It is a cold soup made from tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions and garlic, seasoned with olive oil and vinegar. Perfect for hot summer days, gazpacho is an explosion of fresh flavours that captures the essence of garden ingredients.
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- Cocido Madrileño: If we travel to the heart of Spain, we will find cocido madrileño, a hearty and comforting dish. This cocido consists of a combination of chickpeas, vegetables, pork, chorizo and ham, slowly cooked to create a richly flavoured broth. It is served in three parts: the soup, the chickpeas and the meats, and is a true winter feast.
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- Pulpo a la Gallega: From the region of Galicia comes one of Spain’s best-loved seafood dishes: pulpo a la gallega, or Pulpo a feira. The octopus is boiled until tender and then sliced before being seasoned with olive oil, salt and paprika. This simple but delicious dish brings out the unique flavour of the octopus and is a must-try in Galician gastronomy.
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- Tortilla de patata: Also known as “tortilla española” or “tortilla de patatas”, this is one of the most iconic and beloved dishes in Spanish cuisine. It is a simple and delicious preparation that combines basic ingredients such as eggs and potatoes. The traditional potato omelette recipe consists of cutting the potatoes into thin slices and frying them in olive oil until tender and lightly browned. The potatoes are then mixed with beaten eggs and cooked in a frying pan until the mixture sets and forms a kind of cake. The omelette is often flipped to cook both sides evenly. Onion may also be added to the preparation, which adds extra flavour and a touch of sweetness. The potato omelette is typically served in the form of triangular or square portions, either as an appetizer, a tapa or even as a main dish accompanied by salad. Its simple yet comforting taste makes it a culinary experience worth trying for those looking to get a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine.
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As you can see, Spanish cuisine is a true culinary treasure trove offering a wide range of flavours, textures and gastronomic experiences. From paella to tapas, each dish transports us to different regions of Spain and allows us to immerse ourselves in its rich history and culture. Whether enjoying a meal in a lively tapas bar or savouring a homemade dish in a local trattoria, Spanish cuisine never fails to surprise and delight those lucky enough to try it.
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