If we have to talk about world cuisines, we cannot fail to mention Spanish cuisine, so we tell you about some of the most renowned delicacies of this gourmet experience and where to taste them.
Traveling is an activity that expands the mind. Learning about new places and cultures opens doors to possibilities and offers immense personal growth. Walking through unknown streets, discovering businesses, and learning about people’s day-to-day lives is enriching.
However, there is a stage of tourism that is only sometimes taken advantage of as it should be. Regarding cutting back on expenses, food is one of the first to suffer the effects of the new budget. But the palate is one of the senses that gives more pleasure when learning about new cultures, and it is time to give it the place and importance it deserves with a stimulating Food Tour in Madrid.
Madrid is a vibrant, cosmopolitan, and exciting city; its cuisine is no exception. It perfectly combines traditional flavors and modern touches that reflect its cultural diversity and history.
Please get to know this city and its rich flavors. Delight your taste buds with one of the best cuisines in the world. Experience Madrid as you never imagined before.
Dishes you can not miss in Madrid
Here is a list of 5 dishes and culinary traditions to look for and discover on your next Madrid Food Tour.
- Cocido Madrileño
Spanish stews are big words, and this is the most commemorative part of the area. It is a stew of chickpeas, meats (chorizo, beef, and pork), vegetables, and sausages.
The most particular thing is that it is served in three courses or “tres vuelcos”: soup, chickpeas with vegetables, and finally, meats. It is a perfect dish to recharge your batteries after a cool winter sightseeing walk.
- Callos a la Madrileña
This is one of the most applauded dishes in Madrilenian cuisine. Its flavor is unforgettable, and we bet you will want to repeat it.
It is an adaptation of the well-known “Callos a la española.” They are made with beef tripe, although some recipes accept pork or lamb. The slow cooking, together with chorizo, paprika, and blood sausage, makes this dish a strong delicacy that mixes strong and delicate flavors with a perfect spicy touch. Another must on a trip during the winter.
- Sopa de Ajo (Garlic Soup)
One of the characteristics of this cuisine is the simplicity of its dishes. As often said, less is more, and the Spanish know it. This soup is the best example of this.
Made with garlic, hard-boiled bread, poached egg, and paprika, this comforting dish of Castilian cuisine is a must on your visit to Madrid.
- Bocadillo de Calamares (Calamari Sandwich)
This simple and comical delicacy can be found on almost any menu in Madrid, but especially in the bars of the Plaza Mayor. Why comical? It is a rabis sandwich: bread, fried squid rings, and bread.
It’s a classic that you have to try if you want to.
- Oreja a la plancha (Grilled Ear)
Nothing goes to waste in these kitchens, and with what some may consider disposable, the Madrilenians make one of the most delicious dishes on their menu. As its name says, it is made with the ears of this animal, cut into small pieces, and cooked on the grill with garlic and parsley. Take courage and dare to try it.
Other classics to delight the taste buds
We know that sitting at some restaurant for dinner is only sometimes possible. Sometimes, it is preferable to just a snack and a drink or something sweet in the middle of the afternoon. Well, Madrid also has some options that are already a trademark:
- Tapas, to taste variety
You will find many “Bares de tapas,” or you will hear locals inviting you to “tapear.” Not to talk about the well-known dance but to keep testing your palate. Tapas are small portions of different dishes. They are an excellent option if you are not very hungry or if you prefer to taste several things without increasing your budget too much.
Some of the options not to be missed on the menu are:
- Patatas bravas: be careful with the spiciness.
- Croquetas: usually stuffed with ham and cheese with Bechamel sauce.
- Calamares: You can find them in fried and Roman style.
- Tortilla a la Española: with or without onion.
- Jamón Ibérico: one of the most appreciated delicacies.
- Pimientos de Padrón fritos: always with a touch of sea salt.
- Sweet delicacies
Like its cuisine, the sweets to share over coffee are simple but delicious.
On the one hand, churros and porras are big words. A good bowl of thick hot chocolate always accompanies them.
The rosquillas de San Isidro are another classic with a touch of aniseed. They can come alone (tontas) or covered with a sugar and egg mixture (listas).
Finally, there are the Bartolillos, pastries filled with pastry cream. You can try them at Easter.
- Drinks to cool down and keep going
We do not recommend drinking alcoholic beverages if you are having a mid-afternoon drink or lunch before an excursion. But Madrid has some mild and delicious options that you can indulge in.
- Clarita: This is a beer mixed with some lemon soda. This lowers the bitterness and gives it a unique, fresh touch.
- Tinto de Verano: We are discussing a glass of red wine mixed with ice and soda.
- Vermú de grifo: Based on wine, herbs, spices, sugar, and absinthe.
Where to try them?
The variety of restaurants in the city is incredible. There are well-known Spanish-style fast food chains, typically hidden bars, and great restaurants. But two places, without a doubt, bring together everything that Madrid and its cuisine stand for Mercado de San Miguel and Mercado de San Antón.
The Mercado de San Miguel is a historical jewel of the city and a meeting point for tourists and locals alike. Here, you can find almost all the typical food in the area, cooked or raw.
The Mercado de San Antón is located in the Chueca neighborhood. It is a more modern and lively proposition, offering a wide variety of fresh products for all tastes.
We encourage you to put on your most comfortable shoes and discover this Madrid experience.
