Barcelona has a vibrant culinary culture and offers a wide range of traditional Spanish dishes to try. The best way to experience them is through a Tapas Crawl, where people can explore the different bars and restaurants serving small plates accompanied by drinks. Additionally, Barcelona offers Paella Cooking Classes where people can learn how to cook the famous rice dish that originated in Valencia. The recipe for a Seafood Paella is also provided for those who want to try it at home. Barcelona has great options for foodies and travelers looking to immerse themselves in Spanish cuisine.
From Tapas to Paella: The Best Spanish Cuisine in Barcelona
Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in the world with an outstanding culinary scene. Whether you are a foodie or just looking to taste some of the traditional Spanish dishes, this city has got you covered.
Tapas Crawl
Tapas are small dishes that are served to accompany drinks. You can find them in almost any bar and restaurant in Barcelona. The best way to try them all is to go on a Tapas Crawl. Here’s how you can plan your Tapas Crawl:
- Pick a neighborhood – Start your Tapas Crawl in a neighborhood with a high concentration of bars or restaurants. Some of the popular neighborhoods in Barcelona for Tapas Crawl are El Raval, El Born, and Gracia.
- Choose the Bars – Look for the bars and restaurants that are crowded with locals. This is a good indication that they serve good Tapas. Some of the popular Tapas Bars in Barcelona are Bar Mut, Cal Pep, and Bar Canete.
- Order your Tapas – Don’t be afraid to try new dishes. You can always ask the waiter for recommendations or try the most popular ones like Patatas Bravas, Croquetas, and Chorizo al Vino.
- Drink like a local – Sangria is the most famous Spanish drink, but locals also enjoy Vermouth, a fortified wine that is mixed with soda water.
Paella Cooking Class
Paella is one of the most famous Spanish dishes, and for good reason. This rice dish originated in Valencia but has become a staple in any Spanish kitchen. Why not learn how to make it during your visit to Barcelona?
Here’s how you can book a Paella Cooking Class in Barcelona:
- Research Classes – There are many Paella Cooking Classes in Barcelona, so do some research to find the one that suits your needs. Some of the popular ones are Cook & Taste, La Boqueria Market Cooking Classes, and BCN Kitchen.
- Choose your Paella – There are different types of Paella, ranging from Valencian Paella to Seafood Paella to Vegetarian Paella. Choose the one you want to learn to cook.
- Buy the Ingredients – Some Cooking Classes provide the ingredients, but others might require you to buy them in advance. Make sure to ask about this before booking the class.
- Cook your Paella – Follow the instructions of your chef and learn how to make the perfect Paella. Don’t forget to take notes!
- Eat your Paella – After all the hard work, you get to enjoy your delicious Paella. Buen Provecho!
Recipe – Seafood Paella
If you can’t attend a Paella Cooking Class, but still want to try making one, here’s a recipe for Seafood Paella that you can try at home:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red pepper, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp saffron threads
- 2 cups paella rice
- 4 cups seafood stock
- 12 mussels, cleaned and debearded
- 12 clams, cleaned
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb squid, cleaned and cut into rings
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
- Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe pan. Add onion, red pepper, and garlic. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the tomato, paprika, and saffron. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Increase the heat to high, and add the rice. Cook for a minute or two, stirring constantly.
- Add the seafood stock and bring it to a boil.
- Arrange the mussels and clams on top of the rice, hinge-side down.
- Add the peas, shrimp, and squid to the pan.
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
In conclusion, Barcelona has numerous options for experiencing the Spanish cuisine. From Tapas Crawl to Paella Cooking Class, there is something for everyone. Experiment with different dishes, and you might find your new favorite Spanish cuisine!