Today, we are going to discover the gastronomy of Andalusia. All travellers visiting this region in southern Spain should know it is famous for its rich culinary tradition, combining intense flavours, ingredients from the region and an Arabic influence. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable trip through the most iconic dishes of Andalusia. If you are going to visit Seville, Cadiz, Malaga or any other part of Andalusia, you need to discover these dishes.
Pescaíto frito (fried fish)
A delicacy of the sea, Andalusia has an extensive coastline bathed by the Mediterranean sea and Atlantic ocean, which results in a broad range of fresh and delicious sea products. Pescaíto frito (fried fish) is one of the region’s most popular dishes and consists of a variety of fish, including anchovies, red mullet or whitebait, coated in flour and fried in very hot olive oil until they achieve a crispy texture and an irresistible flavour. Accompany them with a cold beer and you’ll feel like you’re in paradise.
Gazpacho and salmorejo
Freshness in every spoonful. The warm climate of Andalusia has inspired the creation of cooling dishes full of flavour. Gazpacho and salmorejo are two cold soups that have become iconic in Andalusian gastronomy. Gazpacho, made from a base of tomato, cucumber, pepper, onion and olive oil, is perfect for combating the summer heat. For its part, salmorejo is a thicker soup made with tomato, bread, garlic, olive oil and vinegar. Both dishes are an explosion of freshness and ideal for enjoying on an outdoor terrace.
Jamón ibérico (Iberian ham)
An Andalusian treasure, Iberian ham is a world-renowned delicacy and Andalusia is one of the regions that produces this exquisite product. Originating from acorn-fed Iberian pigs, Iberian ham is characterised for its intense flavour, smooth texture and unmistakable aroma. For those who love outstanding cuisine, trying Iberian ham in Andalusia is an experience not to be missed.
Cazón en adobo (marinated dogfish)
A seafaring snack. Marinated dogfish, also known as “Bienmesabe”, is a typical dish in Andalusian gastronomy that will delight those who love fish. It consists of pieces of dogfish of approximately 3×2 cm marinated in a mixture of sweet paprika, garlic, bay leaf, cumin, oregano and Sherry vinegar, which is then coated and fried. The result is a combination of intense flavours and a soft texture inside. Make sure you try this seafaring delicacy when you visit Andalusia.
Tortilla de camarones (shrimp omelette)
A treasure of the sea. Shrimp omelette is an iconic dish from the province of Cadiz in Andalusia. This delicacy is made by mixing fresh shrimps with a light mixture of flour, egg and spices, which is then fried in olive oil. The result is a thin and crispy omelette, full of juicy shrimps and taste of the sea. Enjoy this exquisite dish as a snack or a main course accompanied by a fresh salad.
Flamenquines
A classic of Andalusian cuisine. If you are looking for a comforting and flavoursome dish, make sure you try Andalusian flamenquines. These rolls are made with pork tenderloin rolled with Serrano ham and cheese, then coated in flour and fried to obtain a crispy texture on the outside and juicy on the inside. Flamenquines are traditionally served with fries or a salad, and are a dish that will delight your palate.
Berenjenas con miel (Aubergines with honey)
A contrast of flavours. Aubergines with honey are a perfect combination of sweet and savoury flavours. The aubergines are finely sliced, coated and fried to obtain a crispy texture. They are then served with a generous amount of honey, which adds a sweet touch and contrasts with the slightly bitter taste of the aubergine. This dish is a clear example of how simple ingredients can create an explosion of flavours in every mouthful.
Gambas de Huelva (prawns from Huelva)
A delicacy of the sea. If you love seafood, you simply have to try the prawns from Huelva. This Andalusian province is famous for producing some of the best prawns in the world. These prawns are renowned for their intense flavour, in addition to their juicy and delicate texture.
Prawns from Huelva are caught in the waters of the Gulf of Cadiz and are the star ingredient of many dishes in Andalusian gastronomy. From grilled prawns to garlic prawns, each bite is a true delight for fans of seafood.
Pestiños pastries
Pestiños are a dish of Moorish origin, which means they originate from the Muslims that lived in the region during the Middle Ages.
They consist of a pastry which is eaten in particular during Holy Week, carnivals and at Christmas. These delicious bites consists of a flour dough fried in oil and coated in sugar or honey. Andalusian pestiños, unlike those from Extremadura or Castile, contain Sherry and spices like anise or sesame. Once fried, the pestiños are coated in honey or sprinkled with sugar, which adds an irresistible sweetness.
Andalusian gastronomy is a true culinary treasure which offers an explosion of flavours, tradition and passion in every dish. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in this unique culinary experience during your visit to Andalusia. Explore the best restaurants, allowing yourself to be seduced by their traditional dishes. Your palate will thank you!
