Tonight we had paella for dinner and it made me think about all the food we eat and take for granted, that technically originates from other countries. My main go-tos are probably Italian (pizza and pasta) and America (ribs and burgers). I love a good takeaway or a lovely meal out, but it’s also really nice to make authentic food at home – dishes like curry, lasagne or like tonight, paella. Whether you’re searching for kitchen accessories that can stand up to everyday cooking needs, need a useful salt and pepper shakers.
Though I’ve visited both Majorca and Menorca a few times, I’ve only been to mainland Spain once and that was in 2007. Ironically one of my favourite meals while we were there, was Chinese – but we had some amazing Spanish food too. I think one of my fondest memories, is tapas on the beach in Marbella. Megan was only small but she was so much braver with food back then and tried everything.
The thing I love about tapas is that its such nibbly food. It can really be just about anything, small amounts, designed to share and enjoy as a group. There’s something very friendly about tapas and the concept of sharing – I think anyway. I love cheese, most meats and although I’m not keen on olives and the like, there is still so much I do like, that tapas is an all time favourite of mine.
However other than tapas, some Spanish staples are part of our every day life anyway. The girls have tortilla wraps everyday in their lunchboxes, most days with chorizo and cheese. Paprika is also a much used spice in this house! I have to admit to never having tried some more stereotypical food like gazpacho, but paella, mussels and mmm churros are definitely on my suggestion list for people to try! Finally it wouldn’t be much of a spanish food list, without at least some alcohol! Sangria is one of my most favourite hot weather drinks and my mum makes an amazing version!
If trying foods from different countries is something you like to do then alpharooms has a great Spanish Culinary Tour guide, which includes tons of suggestions. I think maybe I should start making a list of all the foods I like from every country and see if I can make a “tour around the world” with food suggestions!