Trifter

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Sure the Spanish cuisine is popular and you want to try as much of it as possible during your stay. But in case you don’t speak Spanish or you are not sure what exactly is traditional and worth trying, here is a list of the best gastronomical temptations the Iberian Peninsula has to offer.

1. Sangria is usually a light drink, which is perfect with any type of meal. The traditional recipe includes red wine mixed with soda but many places also add some stronger alcohols like brandy or vodka to the mix. The best thing about sangria is the addition of different fruits which make it sweet and light. Don’t be deceived by the sweetness of it though because you might soon find yourself a little more happy than you would have preferred.
2. Tortilla is a typical tapas dish which is usually served as an appetizer. It has some resemblance to an omelet but since the potatoes are the main component, it is rather an omelet with a twist.
3. Empanadas are another form of tapas made of a thin pastry filled with sardines, tuna or chorizo and accompanied by garlic, onion or tomato sauce. This simple yet delightful starter’s roots can be traced back to the Arabs that occupied Spain centuries ago.
4. Patatas Bravas could be classified both as tapas and a side dish since they would make a perfect addition to any kind of roasted meat you order. It is the Spanish version of French fries just in a different shape and with a piquant tomato sauce.
5. Gazpacho is a customary cold soup made of pureed tomatoes, pepper, cucumber and garlic. The thought of having a soup of uncooked vegetables might not be too appealing to some but you have to trust the Spanish when they say that there is no better refreshment in the summer heat than a bowl of Gazpacho.
6. Paella is a rice dish that originated in Valencia. The ingredients vary according to the type of paella. You could try the Valencian paella with beans, green vegetables, meat and sometimes snails. You can also order Paella where the meat and the snails are substituted by seafood. There is a third option for those who cannot decide: mixed paella!
7. Seafood with garlic is big in Spain so you can always order a variety of plain dishes like octopus, prawns, muscles, clams, etc
8. Crema Catalana is what the locals claim to be the predecessor of the French crème brulée. It is refrigerated and served with orange or lemon zest and cinnamon. It is similar to Flan, which is another popular dessert in Spain but with flan the caramel top is liquid.
9. Dulce de Leche – This milk based dessert has become custom not only in Spain but throughout Latin America as well. It could also be used as additional crème for pastry.
10. Churros is a fried dough that distantly resembles doughnuts in taste. However, it has a pretty elongated shape and is usually consumed with sugar, honey or chocolate. It also makes for a perfect breakfast.