Spain isn’t just sunshine, siestas, and fiestas – it’s also home to some of the most mouth-watering food in the world. Here are five traditional favourites you need to know about:
1. Paella
The king of Spanish cuisine! From Valencia, this colourful rice dish is usually made with chicken, rabbit (yes, rabbit!), or just veggies. It’s cooked in a giant flat pan, making it the ultimate “let’s all eat together” dish.
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2. Tortilla
Not your typical omelette! This Spanish omelette is made with potatoes, onions, and eggs – simple, but ridiculously tasty. You’ll find it served as a tapa, in sandwiches, or even cold to enjoy on its own.
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3. Jamón Ibérico
If Spain had a national treasure, this would be it. Thin slices of cured ham that literally melt in your mouth. Spaniards eat it with bread, cheese, or just on its own while standing at the bar with a glass of wine – the proper way.
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4. Gazpacho
This chilled tomato soup is fresh, tangy, and perfect on a hot day. Don’t be surprised if you see people drinking it straight from a glass – very normal in Spain!
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5. Churros con Chocolate
Spain’s sweetest guilty pleasure. Long, golden sticks of fried dough, dunked in thick hot chocolate (the kind you can almost stand a spoon in). Breakfast, dessert, midnight snack… any time is churros time.