Unearthing the Secrets of Spanish Food Recipes

Spanish Food Recipes have created a stir amongst food-lovers world wide owing to their rich aroma and diverse flavors. Spanish food culture has greatly been influenced by the different cultural settlements that have invaded and inhabited Spain throughout history. The Greek and Roman civilizations familiarized Spain with the use of olives and olive oil. The Celts who mainly inhabited the interior regions of Spain permeated the tradition of meat and fish dishes, while the Moors- Arabs who transcended into Spain from Morocco infused the use of condiments such as saffron, cinnamon, cumin, nutmeg, honey, almonds and fresh fruits for culinary innovation.

Spanish recipes are also largely influenced by Spain’s geographical location. Being situated in a peninsula, it is predominantly surrounded by the sea and hence the abundant use of fish and sea food are prominent in their cuisine. Additionally, owing to the presence of fertile coastal flatlands, rice is a staple ingredient of many Spanish recipes. One such eminent rice dish is the ‘Paella’- signatory of the Spanish heritage. Paella Recipes can be varied according to the preferences of people. Though it is traditionally prepared with shell fish such as crabs, clams or shrimps, other Paella variations involve the use of pork, rabbit, chicken or vegetables. Owing to mountainous terrains and fertile lush pastures, Spanish Food recipes are marked by the use of freshly grown produce and poultry. Another culinary invention Spain boasts of are the cured hams- known as ‘Jamón serrano’. These hams are not smoked the usual way, but are cured on the heights of Spain’s mountains.  Other key ingredients used in Spanish culinary include garlic, sweet bell peppers, tomatoes, sweet potatoes etc. 

Tortillas- the famous potato omelets of Spain, as well as Tapas- finger food served with drinks- are two items unique to Spanish menus which are synonymous with Spanish cuisine globally. The Spanish food culture is also famous for using wines and Sherries in their cooking as well as accompaniments to their meals.