Andrea AbbondanzaAre you ready to embark on a tasty culinary journey to discover the most sophisticated and popular Spanish dishes? From traditional tapas, paellas, and pinchos to less-known but equally delicious recipes, Spain provides an incredible variety of flavors for every food lover.
So, what is the most popular Spanish food? Join us as we explore the unique gastronomy of Spain in search of its most delightful delicacies.
7 Famous Spanish Foods
What is the most popular Spanish food? There is a wide variety when it comes to popular Spanish food. Check them out! Here are our seven top picks of the most popular ones.
Chorizo
Spanish Chorizo is a cured pork sausage made from pork, pork fat, garlic, smoked paprika (pimentón), and other spices. The flavor of the chorizo can range from picante (spicy) or dulce (sweet), depending on the recipe used.
The sausage has an intense aroma and a reddish-brown color when cooked. It can be enjoyed as part of tapas or a main course served with vegetables, potatoes, or rice.
Paella
Paella is a traditional Spanish dish from Valencia made of rice and traditionally cooked over an open flame. It’s made of green beans, chicken, rabbit, duck, olive oil, chicken broth, and garrofó.
It’s then seasoned with whole rosemary branches, saffron, turmeric, or calendula. Other paella options include seafood paella, or paella de marisco, and mixed paella, or paella mixta.
Gazpacho
Gazpacho is a refreshingly cool and flavorful cold soup from Spain made with raw, fresh ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, bell peppers, breadcrumbs, olive oil, and vinegar.
The soup is typically served cold and is the perfect way to enjoy a light summer meal. However, another variation, Gazpacho manchego, is served hot and uses meat instead of vegetables.
Arroz con leche
Spanish Arroz con leche (or rice pudding) is a traditional Spanish dessert. It is made with cooked rice, sugar, milk, cinnamon, and lemon zest for a delicious sweet treat.
The rice is simmered in the milk until creamy and then topped with cinnamon and a sprinkle of sugar to add sweetness. This traditional Spanish food is perfect for eating alone or after a full meal.
Patatas bravas
Patatas bravas, also known as “brave potatoes” in English, is a delicious Spanish food made with chunks of fried white potatoes simmered in a spicy sauce.
While the potatoes remain crunchy on the outside, they are tender and creamy on the inside.
Croquetas
Traditional Spanish croquetas are delicious thick béchamel. They can be deep-fried or baked, consisting of a creamy filling encased in crunchy breadcrumbs.
Popular fillings include jamón serrano, chicken, salt cod, apple, wild mushrooms, mashed potatoes, morcilla, tuna, cuttlefish, and cheese. These tasty tapas dishes are eaten as a snack or appetizer.
Morcilla
Morcilla is a type of blood sausage traditionally mainly made of pork blood and fat combined with rice, onions, salt, and spices. Typically, it’s served in two varieties: gut and cylindrical shapes.
The rice adds a unique texture to the sausage, and the spices give it an added depth of flavor. Morcilla can be served grilled, fried, or boiled.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spain’s most eaten food?
One of the most eaten Spanish food is paella, the Spanish rice dish.
What is Spanish cultural food?
One of the Spanish culture’s food is tortilla de patatas, or Spanish Omelette.
What are Spanish snacks called?
Spanish snacks are called tapas.
Conclusion
To sum it up, Spanish cuisine has something for everyone. Whether you want to try a traditional dish or an intriguing new flavor, the most famous Spanish dishes have plenty of flavorful and unique options.
There is no wrong answer to the famous Spanish dish — any dish will satisfy your cravings! Rice dishes such as paella are delicious and filling, while popular Spanish appetizers such as tapas are perfect for smaller meals. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not taste a calçotada or a cocido madrileño?
