The Wandering Kitchen: Spain
In the Skagit Valley Food Co-op’s Wandering Kitchen Travel Blog Series, we’re taking you on a virtual trip to some of the best places on Earth for world-class cuisine. Whether it comes from your backyard or a different continent, good food has the power to transport you anywhere you want to go. So while you might not travel to the heart of India, the Caribbean, or the boot of Italy by plane, train, or automobile, you can take your taste buds on a trip simply by turning your dining table into a delicious destination for some of the world’s best food.
We’ll be featuring locations near and far known for their food, inspirational recipes to try in your own kitchen, as well as products you can find in the Co-op to give you a taste of the cuisine.
Grab your sunhat and your dancing shoes, because, in this edition of The Wandering Kitchen, we're taking a trip to Spain! Well-known for its sandy beaches, vibrant flamenco music, and rich artistic heritage, Spain is a hub for breathtaking architecture, beach lounging, and of course, good food.
Why Spain?
Tapas (an appetizer or snack) is common in Spanish cuisine, and this culture of snacking and drinking and socializing makes Spain the ideal travel location for foodies from around the globe.
Beyond that, Spain's rich old-world culture and beautiful ocean views make it a travel destination that has a little bit of something for everyone.
Spanish-Inspired Recipes
Soak up the taste sensation of Spain with these flavorful and authentic Spanish recipes that are sure to make your tastebuds dance!
Photo Courtesy of RecipeTin Eats
Paella
Italy has slow-simmered marinara sauce. France has Coq au vin. And in Spain, they have paella. One of the best-known dishes in Spanish cuisine, paella is a traditional rice dish that originated in Valencia.
The term 'paella' actually means "frying pan" in Valencian, so you can probably begin to guess how this popular dish is made.
Traditionally, paella was cooked over an open fire that was typically fueled with orange, pine branches, and pine cones. Through this method, the aromatic scent of citrus and pine is infused into the paella to create a rich depth of flavor.
While you can certainly try the authentic method, the recipe below simply calls for a paella pan, but if you don't have it, a large pot or skillet will do.
Photo Courtesy of Pexels
Gazpacho
A chilled tomato soup that's as refreshing as it is tasty, gazpacho is a staple in Spain, especially during the summer tomato season.
Though the exact origins of the dish are disputed, there are some theories that date the original gazpacho all the way back to ancient Rome.
The tomato version we're familiar with today originated in the southern regions of the Iberian Peninsula and is still widely eaten in both Spain and Portugal to beat the summer heat.
To make this cool soup, vine-ripened tomatoes are paired with cucumber, green bell pepper, bread, red onions, garlic, and a handful of spices before being blended up into a smooth and satisfying texture. Serve your gazpacho with our housemade croutons, fresh herbs, and an extra drizzle of olive oil.
Photo Courtesy of Pexels
Gambas al Ajillo
Some call this dish Gambas al Ajillo, but we like to refer to it as simply delicious garlic shrimp.
Often served at tapas bars in Spain, this dish has become so popular that it’s often served as a main course.
Simply put, gambas al ajillo is shrimp sauteed with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, sherry, and paprika.
It's super simple to make and is the perfect appetizer for a larger Spanish-inspired dinner.
Croquetas
Another common tapas item in Spain, croquetas de Jamón is the Spanish take on a French croquette.
Made with a thick bechamel sauce, Spanish croquetas are often filled with Jamon (dry-cured ham), chicken, or salt cod.
While the flavor of these little salty treats is definitely delicious, what makes them special is their texture: soft and moist on the inside, satisfyingly crunchy on the outside.
They're super simple to make at home and are a fun project for the weekend with the kiddos. Enjoy them as an appetizer at your next get-together with a glass of Spanish wine.
Photo Courtesy of Pexels
Sangria
Did you know that the fruity wine drink you love actually originated in Spain?
Traditionally consisting of red wine and chopped fruit, nowadays there are a zillion different recipes online. From rosé to white wine and peaches to strawberries, the options are endless.
However, for the sake of sticking to the original, this recipe from Gimme Some Oven is an authentic Spanish sangria recipe made by blogger Ali, who lives in Barcelona.
It consists of Spanish red wine, brandy, oranges, green apples, lemon, and a cinnamon stick.
Photo Courtesy of Spend With Pennies
Churros
Because you can find churros just about anywhere, including fast-food restaurants, it's hard to imagine a time when you could only find them in Spain and Portugal.
As with gazpacho, the origins of churros are a hotly debated topic. Some food historians believe that the concept of the churro was first brought to Spain by the Portuguese after they returned from Ming-dynasty China. Others, though, think the churro was originally made by Spanish shepherds.
Either way, they're super tasty and easy to make at home, too.
Find the full recipe at Spend with Pennies
Spanish Food Staples Available at The Co-op
Spanish Wine from our Beer & Wine Department
Chorizo from the Meat Department
Spanish-style rice & pilaf