Spain: 5 Hidden Gastronomic Gems to Savor on Your Journey

Spain is a Mediterranean nation famous for its flavorful, sun-imbued food. Explore the characteristic, lesser-known delicacies that locals treasure in this region.

Regarded as one of the planet’s premier culinary traditions, Spanish cuisine features an extensive array of delicacies known for their subtle and delectable flavors.

Eager to explore Spain? Learn more about the destination to help plan your visit effectively:

1. Understand the culture and customs.

2. Plan your itinerary around key attractions.

3. Familiarize yourself with local transportation options.

This will ensure you make the most of your trip.

• Salvador Dalí: 4 Locations in Spain Where You Can Follow in the Artist’s Footsteps
• Andalusia: The perfect 12-day route plan for an enjoyable road trip through the Spanish territory
• Ibiza: 6 eateries for an genuine encounter on the Balearic Island

5 lesser-known Spanish dishes that will help you explore the nation’s culinary scene

Dishes such as

tortilla de patatas

or

paella

Have transcended Spain’s boundaries to emerge as iconic staples of Spanish cuisine globally. Today, Spanish gastronomy has broadened, with various regions within the nation playing pivotal roles in shaping the distinctive flavors we enjoy now—deliciously abundant and varied. Below is an exploration of five lesser-known dishes that are truly delightful to savor!

Cocido madrileño

First, make your way to the Spanish capital: Madrid. It is here that you will discover

cocido madrileño

This sumptuous and flavorful dish features traditional Spanish ingredients: it includes beef, pork, black sausage, along with various vegetables like turnips, cabbage, carrots, and chickpeas. The meal is presented in stages, beginning with the broth, followed by the chickpeas, and concluding with the veggies and meats.

Rabo de toro

To sample this hearty beef tail stew, one must visit Córdoba, located in southern Spain. It was particularly favored during the 16th century.

rabo de toro

Was consumed after bullfighting events and was capable of feeding approximately 20 individuals. In terms of ingredients, besides meat, you’ll discover tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, leeks, along with olive oil, garlic, bay leaves, and thyme.

Chopitos

If you are traveling through Andalusia, make sure not to miss out on

chopitos

These are indeed tiny cuttlefish, typically enjoyed as tapas across the nation. They’re quite easy to prepare at home too; just clean the cuttlefish, season with salt, coat in flour, and fry in scorching oil. A delight for your palate!

Calçotada

In Catalonia,

calçotada

It is regarded as a culinary landmark. This tradition involves a classic barbecue where calçots de Valls, an indigenous onion variety from the area, are consumed. These are typically grilled and served alongside various sides.

salvitxada

The sauce is prepared with tomatoes, chilies, almonds, garlic, and olive oil.

Fabada asturiana

In the north of Spain, you can discover

fabada asturiana

, a cuisine akin to

cocido madrileño

The dish consists of fava beans, a type of white bean, along with ingredients like pork, bacon, chorizo, and blood sausage, akin to black pudding. It’s quite delicious.

fabada asturiana

Is a staple cuisine from Asturias, a northern region of Spain.