Spain is without a doubt one of my favorite countries since I lived there for a year!
I think Spanish food is seriously underrated, so I’m happy to share some of my favorite fun facts about it in the hope that it will encourage more people to give it a try when visiting or cooking at home. Or, maybe, just learn something new!
1. Spain is famous for tapas
Tapas are a fun and delicious way to try different flavors in Spain. These small plates range from simple dishes like patatas bravas (potatoes in a spicy sauce) to more elaborate dishes like croquetas (stuffed croquettes) or albóndigas (meatballs).
I live in Spain and eat tapas almost every day. This has become my way of eating, not a full meal!
in places like this almeriayou usually get snacks and drinks for free, and you can always buy extras from the menu.
exist Granada or Sevilleyou can also get free snacks, but they’re usually more basic, while more elaborate snacks cost a small fee.
Tapas are more of a southern Spanish thing, although they are sometimes found in other regions as well, or called slightly differently.
Apparently the name comes from the word ‘lid’, as they were originally placed in a small dish to cover customers’ drinks and keep out dust or flies etc.
2. Paella is one of the most famous Spanish foods
Paella is a mouthwatering rice dish that is Valencia.
It’s traditionally made with saffron, the spice that gives the dish its signature yellow color and can include seafood, chicken or rabbit. Did you know that Spain even has a paella cook-off?
Paella is one of those things that can be done really well or just so so. The best paella is freshly prepared in a large pan and served right at your table.
The socarrat is crispy rice on the bottom and sides of the pan that needs to be scrambled!
3. Jamón Ibérico is one of the most famous hams in the world
Jamón ibérico is no ordinary ham – it’s a delicacy.
Made from free-range Iberian pigs that feed on acorns, the meat is cured for up to three years to achieve its unique flavor and texture. So rare that there are even shops in Spain that specialize in this ham!
When you go to a larger Spanish grocery store, you’ll find ham hanging on the bone in rows. Iberia is the best!
4. Tacos are like an omelet, not a burrito
Tortilla española is an easy and delicious dish that’s perfect for breakfast or lunch, or anytime because it’s so good!
It’s made with potatoes, onions, and eggs, boiled until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. the best part? It’s versatile, so you can add your favorite toppings, like sausage or peppers.
You’ll find it often served as tapas on its own, or served on a slice of toasted bread.
5. Churros are a Spanish breakfast food
Churros are a beloved snack in Spain and are eaten at any time of the day, even for breakfast, which can be confusing to foreigners who think of them as dessert.
They are long, thin strips of dough that are fried until crisp and usually dusted with sugar. They can be dipped in coffee or thick hot chocolate, and are best freshly fried.
6. Soup can be served cold
Gazpacho is a refreshing and healthy cold soup that’s perfect for summer.
It’s made with fresh tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, onions and garlic and served chilled. Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of veggies!
Salmorejo is a similar Andalusian cold soup that contains only tomato and garlic. Sometimes served with dip on mini breadsticks!
7. There are more than 70 wine regions in Spain
Spanish wines are a must-try for any wine lover. With over 70 different wine regions, there is something for you.
Rioja is perhaps best known, known for its bold reds, while the RÃas Baixas are known for their crisp, crisp whites.
8. Spain produces over 40% of the world’s olive oil
Spanish olive oil is more than just your average olive oil—it’s one of the best in the world.
Spain produces more than 40% of the world’s olive oil and is known for its high-quality extra virgin olive oil. It is a staple of Spanish cooking and is used in everything from salad dressings to frying.
I used to have a favorite breakfast spot because I loved their olive oil. So before I left Spain, I went to where the olive oil was made, bought a big case, and my parents drove it back to my home in Scotland.
I still miss that olive oil…
9. Spain Follows a Mediterranean Diet
Spanish cuisine is based on the Mediterranean diet, considered one of the healthiest in the world.
The diet emphasizes fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats like olive oil.
So not only is Spanish food delicious, it’s also good for you!
Of course, this is not the case in all cases, but in general, I found that I ate healthier while living in Spain.
Large meals are usually also eaten at noon and small plates at night.
10. Seafood is an important part of the Spanish diet
Seafood is a huge part of Spanish cuisine, and there are plenty of delicacies to try. From the famous paella to pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus) to mariscada (mixed seafood stew), there’s something for everyone.
Plus, with Spain’s long coastline, you can be sure the seafood is fresh and tasty.
11. Spain produces many types of cheese
Spanish cheese is a must-try for all cheese lovers. From tangy blue cheese Cabrales to nutty Manchego, there’s something for everyone.
Pair them with some crusty bread and a glass of wine for the perfect snack.
You’ll often find different types of cheese offered as tapas!
12. Spanish cuisine uses some common spices
Spanish cuisine is known for its bold and flavorful spices like saffron, paprika and cumin.
These spices add depth and complexity to dishes like paella, while also imparting a distinctive smoky flavor to dishes like chorizo.
13. Nougat is a popular holiday dessert
Turrón is a traditional Spanish dessert that is especially popular during the holidays. It’s a nougat made with honey, sugar, and toasted almonds or other nuts.
There are two types of turrón: hard and soft. The hard version resembles a crunchy candy, while the soft version is more like a chewy nougat.
Christmas is everywhere!
14. Spanish hot chocolate is thick
Spanish hot chocolate is unlike any hot chocolate you’ve had before. It’s thick, rich, and has an almost pudding-like texture.
It’s made with melted chocolate and is usually served with churros or other pastries. It’s the perfect indulgence on a cold day.
15. Spanish coffee is suitable for certain times of the day
Spaniards love coffee, and there are many ways to enjoy it.
Café con leche (coffee with milk) is a popular breakfast drink, while a cortado (espresso with a dash of milk) is great for a morning pick-me-up.
Of course, no Spanish meal is complete without a shot of espresso or a café to finish off. You need it after eating and drinking!
I really miss Spanish food and would love to go back to Spain to eat it whenever I can!
Sonya X
