Exploring the vegetarian dishes from Spain
Spain, a country known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse landscapes, is also a culinary paradise that tantalizes the taste buds of travelers from around the world. It offers a tapestry of flavors that reflects its regional diversity and passion for food. Let's explore some of the must-try vegetarian Spanish dishes that reflect the country's culinary heritage.
Patatas bravas
White potatoes are chopped into erratic chunks or cubes to make the classic Spanish tapa (snacks or appetizers) or side dish known as patatas bravas or papas bravas. This dish is a staple in tapas bars across Spain. They are deep-fried in olive oil and served with mayonnaise or aioli with salsa brava, which is a mildly spicy Spanish tomato sauce prepared with paprika.
Churros
A popular snack called churros comprises fried dough that is sliced into sausage forms and dusted with sugar. It has a lengthy, spiral shape which makes it ideal for eating on the go. This delectable sweet is found everywhere from roadside shops to cafes and restaurants. The dish is ideally eaten by dipping it in hot, melted chocolate.
Gazpacho
Gazpacho is one of the most refreshing items you can have in Spain. Olive oil, bread, garlic, peppers, and the reddest, ripest tomatoes are pureed until silky smooth. It is then chilled and served in bowls/glasses. Gazpacho can be eaten as an appetizer or a full meal depending on the size of the dish and the vessel it is served in.
Calcot
A calcot is a type of onion that is common in Spanish cooking. It resembles leeks and has a milder flavor than a conventional green onion. To keep it tender, a calcot is generally cooked over an open flame while being wrapped in newspaper. It is usually eaten with a salvitxada sauce prepared from tomato, almond, garlic, pepper, vinegar, and olive oil.
