The Flavours of Spain: More Than Just a Pretty Paella
This is a writing sample from Scripted writer Philip Young
I'm sure, like me, the first time you went on holiday to Spain, the first thing on your list was to eat paella, and why not? It would be pretty odd if you didn't; who wouldn't want to sit in a little restaurant by the beach with a cold beer, eating a dish for which the country is famous. But there's more to be discovered in the flavours of Spain. So, let's look at lesser-known dishes that deserve their place in the sun.
Tapas: Small Plates, Big Flavours
Tapas can be daunting for a few reasons. If you don't have a grasp of basic Spanish, it can be tricky to know what to order or how the tapas system works if you are in a little bar during a busy period. So my advice is first to pick a tapas restaurant where you can familiarize yourself with the dishes. It's well worth it! Patatas Bravas is a great potato dish with a killer chilli sauce; then Albonigas, the famous meatballs in tomato sauce, or Gambas al Ajillo, a creamy garlic prawn dish. Tapas is a great way to get to know the best flavours that Spain has to offer.
Tortilla Española: A Versatile Classic
Then we have the Tortilla Espanola. It is a simple dish made with eggs, potatoes, and onions. Think of it as a pumped-up omelette. A perfect example of Spanish home cooking that you will make as soon as you get home. Served any time of the day, with a glass of cold white wine, is always the best.
Gazpacho: A Refreshing Summer Soup
Nothing beats a refreshing bowl of Gazpacho when the sun shines and temperatures rise. This chilled tomato-based soup is a Spanish culinary icon, especially during the hot summer. Packed with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, garlic, and olive oil, Gazpacho offers a flavour that instantly cools you down and leaves you wanting more. Pulpo a la Gallega: Octopus Galician Style
Pulpo a la Gallega
If you head north to Galicia, try Pulpo a la Gallega. Containing octopus, traditionally served with olive oil, paprika, and sea salt. And since you are in the North of Spain, it would be rude not to combine it with a glass of local cider.
Churros con Chocolate: Sweet Delights
Now for dessert! We turn to the glorious Churros con Chocolate. Deep-fired dough dusted with sugar and cinnamon. These are enjoyed any time of the day, paired with some decadent hot chocolate and, because it was a late night last night, a robust black coffee to get yourself back on your feet.
So, while paella might be the poster child of Spanish cuisine, deservedly, the country has a rich and deep culinary history to explore. As one of my favourite places worldwide, I'm sure even I have much more to discover. In the meantime, I might grab a cold beer and order some paella.
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Hello! I write Blogs, Articles, Product Reviews and Scripts. Excellent Researcher and Copy Editor with an eye for detail. My main areas of expertise are in Food, History, Travel, Popular Culture, and Smart Home Setup/Gadgets. Have an excellent off-the-shelf knowledge of various subjects with a background in the Food Business at the Senior Management level and the Film and TV Industry.
