Differences between Spanish and American Cuisine

Food in Spain - While Spain is a country that has plenty to offer in regards to its’ history or beautiful sights, it is also a country known for its’ tasty dishes. If you travel to Spain, make sure to try the wide variety of the foods that the Spanish prepare on an everyday basis. The Spanish pride themselves on cooking with fresh produce to prepare a meal your taste buds will remember. However, the memorable meals you might consume in Spain will differ from that of the meals in the United States.

Click on the pages for a few dishes that we believe you must try!

Paella

Probably one of the most well-known dishes that you might think of when someone mentions Spanish cuisine is Paella. Paella is a rice-based dish that can vary from region to region within Spain. Primarily known in the Valencia region, Paella is a yellow rice dish often serviced with red peppers, lobster, shrimp, or chorizo. You might see a resemblance to Risotto, but this dish is much more rich and drier. Paella is one of the most famous and delicious dishes depending on whom you speak to within Spain. While there is the widely accepted recipe, every Chef and region will add his or her own twist. So be sure to order multiple dishes of this incredible meal to get the full experience and see how it compares throughout the country!

Gazpacho

Gazpacho is a dish in Spain that you may find cooked differently based on the place you may be eating at or the time of day you order it! Traditionally made from tomatoes, onions, garlic, cucumbers, wine vinegar, salt, and olive oil, Gazpacho is a dish that you won’t regret ordering.  While you will often see it in the form of soup, Gazpacho can be ordered as a stew, salad, warm or cold. If you are not looking for a substantial meal for lunch, you can order this enjoyable dish that will be both refreshing and tasty!

Patatas Bravas

This dish is one of the most popular tapas you will see throughout your stay in Spain, or perhaps a variation of it. Patatas Bravas is a dish mainly of fried potatoes, but varies on the sauces or spices that the chef decides to use! Missing the American French fries from home? Well, this dish will put those cravings to shame as the potatoes in Spain are cooked fresh every day. You’ll love them so much you’ll be looking up recipes when you return home to make them again.

Tortilla Espanola

Craving eggs? Try ordering Tortilla Espanola, as it is served throughout the day! This dish is the Spanish equivalent of an omelet back in the United States. However, Tortilla Espanola will only contain potatoes, onions, and eggs. If you’re lucky, the Chef may let you add Chorizo or ham to the dish, but it is mainly served in its’ traditional fashion. The Spanish omelet is a famous dish that many will love so much they will eat it for dinner too.

Crema Catalana

If you are looking for a fabulous dessert to try, you must order Crema Catalana! This famous dessert has a striking similarity to Crème Brule on the outside but differs in taste. Crema Catalana is served cold and is a custard based on a lemon and cinnamon taste. You can escape the hot Spanish weather and enjoy this dessert in the middle of the day.