Ole Espagnol
If you can’t afford to go traveling this summer, then why not take your tongue on a round-the-world trip. First stop, Spain.
A lot of Spanish cooking is heavily influenced by Jewish traditions. Wine and bread are usually served with every meal. Common ingredients include potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, beans, pork and seafood. Barbecued and grilled meats, pita bread, hummus and falafel are also very common in Mediterranean cuisine. Olive oil is used for cooking and as an ingredient in most dishes as it is believed to prolong youth and life in the Mediterranean people.
Tapas are a small snack that are usually included in the price of a drink in bars, but can also be served as a small meal. Tapas can include cheeses, meat, nuts and fruit. Patatas Bravas is a type of tomato and potato salad and Tortilla De Patata, a potato omlette, are often served as tapas.
Sofrito Sauce
Sofrito is a simple tomato sauce that is served as a base for many traditional dishes. Here is the super simple recipe:
You will need:
1/2 Red Onion
1/2 Pepper
4 tbsp Chopped Tomatoes
2 tbsp Tomato Sauce
1 tbsp Olive Oil
Salt + Pepper (to season)
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Chop up the onion and the pepper. |
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Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend until pureed. |
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Serve with potatoes, pasta or anything you like. You can store the sauce for up to a month. |
If the summer heat is getting to you, cool down with a Batido De Fresas, a very unique milkshake like Spanish drink. Or cosy up with some Churros and Hot Chocolate, a type of deep fried sweet pastry. Other great Spanish recipes include Vegetable Paella and Salsa.
Remember, cook certain food when the ingredients are in season and then freeze for later months. You may now stamp your recipe book with the Spanish passport logo.
