5 typical dishes from different Spanish regions

The richness and diversity of typical Spain dishes cause envy the world over as the different ingredients, customs and cultures of the country, such as Mediterranean or Cantabrian food, have made it one of the healthiest and most internationally renowned cuisines.Have we whetted your appetite? Before telling you about some of the most representative typical dishes in Spain that will be a must on your table once you visit the country, we’ll tell you why they’re so important.

What is the importance of meals in Spanish culture?

In Spain everything goes at a slower pace and is treated with special care: the lifestyle, free time and, above all, food. Enjoying typical Spanish food goes one step further, paying more attention to how it is prepared, the experience of savouring each dish and the impact on your health.

The Mediterranean diet, which is typical in the areas closest to this coast and characterised by the use of cereals, extra virgin olive oil, vegetables and monounsaturated fats, was declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2020, making it a worldwide tourist attraction.

In addition, and if that wasn’t enough, Spanish cuisine and food contribute 33% to Spain’s GDP.

What is the importance of meals in Spanish culture?

In addition, and if that wasn’t enough, Spanish cuisine and food contribute 33% to Spain’s GDP.

5 typical dishes from different Spanish regions

The most important dishes from different regions

If we had to describe Spanish food with two words, we’d say that it’s diverse and adaptable to each area of the country, making it one of the most varied cuisines. Here are a few examples!

Nothing says Madrid like cocido

Can you think of a dish that better represents Madrid’s cuisine? Cocido is a typical Spanish dish made using different types of meat (chicken, beef, chorizo, bacon, etc.), pulses, chickpeas and potatoes. Once it has been cooked all together in one pot, the different components are separated and served individually.

Catalonia and its famous Calçots

The less well-known, but no less tasty, option. Calçots are a variety of tender and elongated onions that are grilled using shoots and eaten with romesco sauce.

Without a doubt, a delight from Catalonia that should have the geographical indication “Calçot de Valls“, a recognition granted to certain products based on their origin.

Andalusia: the birthplace of gazpacho

Have you ever tried a chilled gazpacho or salmorejo in summer while enjoying the Andalusian sun? Without a doubt, this is one of the most famous typical dishes from this region in Spain that is an absolute must on any Andalusian dinner table.

It is prepared cold by blending tomato, green pepper, cucumber, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, bread, water, salt and vinegar. Optionally, many people also add onion.

The origin of paella: its beloved Valencian Community

We are sure that this is the first dish to comes to mind when you think about Spanish cuisine: the famous Valencian paella. But be careful with the recipe! Not any old ingredients will do.

According to Valencian experts, it is cooked with rice, free-range chicken, rabbit, flat green beans, large white beans, snails and condiments such as extra virgin olive oil, sweet paprika, tomato, saffron, rosemary and salt. A real delicacy!

Caldero, the golden star of the Region of Murcia

From the classic Mar Menor and its coastal tradition, caldero rice captivated an entire region and is still one of the most typical dishes to this day. It is eaten throughout the region, especially in areas closest to the Mediterranean coast.

It is a fish and rice stew cooked with dried red peppers, garlic, tomato, sea bass and fish broth, served with ali oli on the side. The rice and the fish are eaten separately, first the rice then the fish.

Would you like to try these typical Spanish dishes?

Living and studying in Spain gives you the chance to try the country’s typical dishes and travel to nearby regions to enjoy their culture and cuisine. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover it!In the canteens of the Best Schools in Spain, we encourage students to try different foods, transmitting the habit and custom of eating a variety of foods at each meal and the variety, balance and moderation of the Mediterranean diet.

5 typical dishes from different Spanish regions

What is the importance of meals in Spanish culture?

What is the importance of meals in Spanish culture?

5 typical dishes from different Spanish regions

Nothing says Madrid like cocido

Catalonia and its famous Calçots

Andalusia: the birthplace of gazpacho

The origin of paella: its beloved Valencian Community

Caldero, the golden star of the Region of Murcia

Would you like to try these typical Spanish dishes?

Contact us