Summary of Must-Try Spanish Dishes:
- Cochinillo Asado (Roast Suckling Pig)
- Pulpo a la Gallega (Galician Octopus)
- Tortilla Española (Spanish Omelet)
- Jamon Iberico and Chorizo (Iberian Ham and Spicy Sausage)
- Gambas Ajillo (Garlic Prawns)
- Paella (Spanish Rice Dish)
- Pescado Frito (Fried Fish)
- Gazpacho (Cold Tomato Soup or Liquid Salad)
- Queso Manchego (Spanish Sheep Cheese)
- Patatas Bravas (Fried Potatoes in Spicy Sauce)
- Chorizo
Cochinillo Asado (Roast Suckling Pig)
Cochinillo Asado is roast baby pig, renowned for its crisp, fatty exterior and tender, juicy meat—ideal for pork rind enthusiasts.
Where to Try Cochinillo Asado
Segovia is synonymous with Cochinillo Asado, an essential dish for visitors.
One of the classic places to enjoy this dish is at the historic El Botin restaurant in Madrid, known as the world’s oldest restaurant, famously frequented by Ernest Hemingway.
For a more casual experience, head to Don Cochinillo in Salamanca, where you can savor a piece of this dish with a glass of wine for under 3€.
The closest airports to Segovia and Salamanca include Madrid and Valladolid.
Pulpo a la Gallega (Galician Octopus)
Pulpo a la Gallega, Galicia’s signature dish, features boiled octopus with a garnish of paprika, rock salt, and olive oil. The flavor is subtle, with a unique chewy texture that some may find surprising.
This dish is also known as Pulpo a la Feria, and the addition of potatoes is optional, though it’s often grilled when served alongside vegetables.
Where to Try Pulpo a la Gallega
Enjoy this dish across Galicia in cities like Santiago de Compostela or A Coruña in their charming villages. The nearest airports include Santiago de Compostela and Oviedo.
Tortilla Española (Spanish Omelet)
This classic Spanish omelet comprises eggs, potatoes, and often onions, but can also feature prawns, mushrooms, or even cheese for added flavor.
Where to Try Tortilla Española
You can find tortilla at virtually any bar and café throughout Spain, making it one of the most quintessential Spanish dishes enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
Jamon Iberico and Chorizo (Iberian Ham and Spicy Sausage)
Jamon Iberico is an essential aspect of Spanish dining, revered for its quality and flavors. The curing process lasts several years, resulting in prized varieties such as pata negra and de bellota, made from acorn-fed pigs.
Where to Try Jamon Iberico and Chorizo
For an immersive experience, consider joining the Ultimate Spanish Cuisine Tour in Madrid to discover various ham types and must-try local specialties.
Gambas Ajillo (Garlic Prawns)
Gambas ajillo feature large prawns sautéed in olive oil, garlic, and optional chili flakes, providing a flavorful kick that seafood lovers will appreciate.
Where to Try Gambas Ajillo
This dish hails from Catalonia but can be found throughout Spain, especially enjoyed in the vibrant city of Madrid.
Paella (Spanish Rice Dish)
Paella is perhaps the most iconic Spanish dish, showcasing rice cooked with a variety of ingredients and flavors. It can also be adapted into vegetarian variants.
Where to Try Paella
Experience authentic paella in Valencia, especially in the village of El Palmar, believed to be its birthplace. Cooking courses are also available in places like Barcelona.
Pescado Frito (Fried Fish)
Although commonly associated with British cuisine, fried fish is truly a delicacy in Andalusia, particularly in Cadiz, where various fish types are offered at affordable prices.
Where to Try Pescado Frito
For an unforgettable experience, head to Las Flores Freideria in Cadiz, where the freshness and flavor of the fried fish are simply unparalleled. This dish is also found in cities like Malaga and Granada.
Gazpacho (Cold Tomato Soup or Liquid Salad)
Gazpacho is a refreshing dish usually described as a cold soup, but it is more akin to a liquid salad, blending tomatoes with cucumbers, green peppers, garlic, olive oil, and salt—perfect for hot summer days.
Where to Try Gazpacho
Gazpacho can be enjoyed anywhere in Andalusia, with plenty of offerings being found in Seville and other major cities.
Queso Manchego (Spanish Sheep Cheese)
Manchego is a hard cheese hailing from the Castilla-La Mancha region. Made from sheep’s milk, it is typically salty and often paired perfectly with jamón ibérico.
Where to Try Queso Manchego
This cheese is widely available across Spain but is best sourced in its producing region of Castilla-La Mancha.
Patatas Bravas (Fried Potatoes in Spicy Sauce)
Patatas bravas are a tantalizing dish where fried potatoes are served with a spicy tomato sauce, providing just the right amount of heat that characterizes Spanish cuisine.
Where to Try Patatas Bravas
These can be found at tapas bars throughout Spain; a popular chain called ‘Las Bravas’ in Madrid is particularly well-known for its unique bravas sauce.
Chorizo
Chorizo is a flavorful spicy sausage, often served sliced thinly as a cold appetizer or cooked in cider or wine for a comforting treat.
Where to Try Chorizo
Chorizo can be enjoyed throughout Spain, with the cooked versions being popular in the northern region of Asturias.
