Churros con Chocolate
Begin your Spanish food odyssey with the iconic Churros con Chocolate. These deep-fried dough pastries, often referred to as ‘Spanish doughnuts,’ are served warm, sprinkled with sugar, and accompanied by a thick chocolate sauce for dipping. Whether it’s breakfast or a late-night snack, churros are a delightful treat any time of the day.
Bocadillos
Bocadillos are Spain’s answer to sandwiches. Made using the traditional baguette-like Spanish bread called ‘barra,’ they are filled with a variety of ingredients ranging from the classic ‘jamón’ (cured ham) and cheese to calamari rings. Portable and flavorful, they are a staple for those on-the-go.
Pimientos de Padrón
These small green peppers from the Padrón region in Galicia are a testament to the Spanish saying, “some are spicy, and some are not.” Quickly fried in olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt, they make for a perfect snack. Pop them whole into your mouth, but be ready for a potential spicy surprise!
Croquetas
Creamy on the inside and crispy on the outside, Croquetas are the Spanish croquettes that locals and tourists adore equally. Typically made from bechamel sauce and various fillings like ham, chicken, or fish, they are coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried to perfection. Each bite is a flavorful explosion that captures the essence of Spanish comfort food.
Gazpacho
While it may seem odd to have a cold soup on this list, Gazpacho is no ordinary dish. Originating from Andalusia, this refreshing blend of tomatoes, peppers, onions, cucumbers, and garlic, served cold, is especially favored in the scorching summer months. Often poured into cups or glasses, it’s a common sight to see locals sipping on Gazpacho as they wander through Spanish markets.