¡Delicioso! Spain Is For Foodies
Here are some of the great foods (and a couple of drinks) that all travelers and foodies definitely need to sample.
Paella Valenciana- Paella is a rice dish originally from the Valencian Community. Paella is regarded as one of the community's identifying symbols. It is one of the best-known dishes in Spanish cuisine.
Iberico Ham-This is to Spain what prosciutto is to Italy. This ham has become a famous ingredient known well to world-class chefs as one of the best hams in the world. It can be served on its’ own or as an ingredient in a dish. It is cut thicker than prosciutto, so it is not as delicate and a little meatier.
Manchego- This sheep’s milk cheese pairs great with wonderful Iberico ham. It has a salty, earthy flavor to it and it originated in the La Mancha region of Spain (hence the name). It is eaten all throughout Spain with great popularity.
Sangria- The great thing about Sangria is that every restaurant and Sangria maker has a different take on it and some places will even offer up to 6 different varieties on their menu. Mix red wine, brandy, triple sec, lemonade concentrate, orange juice, lemon juice, and sugar together in a bowl. Add orange, lemon and lime slices, and maraschino cherries.
Spanish Omelet- This is not the breakfast omelet that is probably coming to your mind right now. This is an omelet that is eaten all day and can come in an individual size or larger and served in slices. It is filled with chunks of potatoes and onions and served with some type of aioli.
Croquettas- This is a dish that is a lot like the Bombas. Croquettas are filled with meat (usually chicken or Iberico ham) and cheese. They are a long, oval shape. Spain can really be a food lover's dream.
Chorizo- A spicy sausage that is eaten in many different ways including sliced up like salami or used as an ingredient in many dishes.
Gazpacho- This is a chilled tomato soup that is really satisfying on a hot Spanish summer day. It sometimes comes served with Pa Amb Tomaquet or with sides of croutons, red peppers, and onion. No matter how it is served, it’s delicious.
Bombas- A combination of mashed potatoes and meat that are rolled in bread crumbs in the shape of a ball and fried. They usually come in two different sizes (like snack and meal size) and they are usually served with one aioli on top and another on the bottom. They are the bomb!
Bocadillos- This is the Spanish version of a sandwich. They are made on baguettes that are soft and crusty all at the same time. You can choose the meat that you want on it and then they are topped with multiple sauces and toppings that can include lentils, lettuce, corn, or cucumbers.
Pa Amb Tomaquet- This is a bread that is served with many dishes in Barcelona. It is so popular that if you don’t order it specifically, many servers with ask you if you want it. It is a slice of bread topped with a rub of olive oil and tomato and a dash of salt. Everyone puts their own twist on the dish like some will toast the bread and others will serve it with more chunks of tomato.
Cava- This is the sparkling wine of Spain. It is normally a drink that is on the sweeter type but there is a variation. Brut Cava is a cava that is drier, and it tends to taste more like traditional champagne.