Traveling by Taste: A Culinary Odyssey through Spain

While on vacation, it's worth going off the beaten path and trying new flavors. Local dishes, prepared according to traditional recipes, allow you to better understand the culture and daily life of the locals. From the bustling markets of Barcelona, to the tapas bars of Madrid, to the rustic restaurants of Andalusian villages, a culinary journey through Spain is an unforgettable experience that delights the palate and the soul. We invite you to discover what Spanish cuisine has to offer and immerse yourself in a culinary adventure that you will always remember. Here are some of the top foods and drinks to try when visiting Spain.

Paella is one of Spain's most famous dishes, originating in Valencia. It is a dish of rice cooked in broth with the addition of saffron, which gives it its characteristic yellow color. Paella can be prepared in many ways, but the most popular variations are:

• Paella Valenciana: Traditional version with chicken, rabbit, snails, green beans and white beans.
• Paella de Marisco: Paella with seafood such as shrimp, squid, mussels and lobster.
• Paella Mixta: A combination of meat (chicken, rabbit) and seafood.

Paella is usually served in a large, flat pan (paellera) and is ideal for family meals.

Tapas are small snacks that can be served cold or hot. Tapas are popular throughout Spain and are often served with a drink in bars and restaurants. Examples of popular tapas include:

• Patatas Bravas: Fried potatoes with spicy tomato sauce and aioli.
• Gambas al Ajillo: Shrimp fried in olive oil with garlic and chili peppers.

• Jamón Ibérico: Thin slices of dried Iberian ham.
• Tortilla Española: Potato omelet with onions.
• Pulpo a la Gallega: Cooked octopus with peppers, olive oil and salt, served on potatoes.

Churros are fried dough in the shape of long, thin bars, sprinkled with sugar. They are most often served with hot chocolate for dipping.

Gazpacho is a cooler originating from Andalusia, perfect for hot days. It is a soup of raw vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions and garlic blended with olive oil, vinegar and bread.

Pimientos de Padrón are small green peppers that are fried in olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt. Most are mild, but some can be very spicy, making eating them an interesting experience.

Sangria is a traditional Spanish drink based on wine, fruit, sugar and a touch of brandy. It is a refreshing and sweet drink, perfect for hot days. Sangria is usually served with ice cubes and pieces of fruit, such as oranges, lemons, apples and peaches.

Horchata is a traditional drink originating in Valencia, made from chufas (also known as ground almonds), water and sugar. It is a refreshing, milky drink that is often served with ice, perfect for hot days.