Spanish cuisine offers a lot of variety and differs by region. Here are just a few ideas of what to try or cook:
- Tapas: Small, varied snacks, from olives and cheese to mini sandwiches and hot dishes.
- Paella: Famous rice dish from Valencia, made with seafood, chicken, rabbit, or vegetables.
- Jamón: Cured ham, a national delicacy. Comes in two main types: Serrano and the more prized Ibérico.
- Gazpacho and Salmorejo: Refreshing cold tomato soups, especially popular in summer in Andalusia.
- Tortilla de patatas: Fluffy omelet with potatoes and onions, a classic of Spanish cuisine.
- Seafood and fish: Especially fresh and tasty on the coast.
- Local wines: Spain is a country with rich winemaking traditions. Try wines from Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Penedès, Rueda, and many other regions.
It’s easy to find supermarkets in Spain for grocery shopping.
- Popular chains: Mercadona (very popular among locals, good value for money), Carrefour (hypermarkets with a wide range, including non-food items), Lidl and Aldi (German discount stores), Dia (small neighborhood shops), Alcampo (Auchan), Eroski (especially in the north).
- Assortment: A large selection of fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, fish, seafood, cheese, sausages, canned goods, dairy products, bread, wine, and other drinks.
- Prices: Overall, grocery prices in Spain are considered moderate compared to many other Western European countries.
- Opening hours: Most supermarkets are open Monday to Saturday, roughly from 9:00/10:00 to 21:00/22:00. Important to note: on Sundays and public holidays, almost all supermarkets are closed (except some in major tourist areas). Plan your shopping in advance.
Visiting a local market (Mercado Central in cities or an open-air mercadillo) is a great way to buy the freshest seasonal products (vegetables, fruit, fish, meat, cheese) and experience the local atmosphere. Covered markets are usually open in the morning from Monday to Saturday. Open-air markets often take place once or twice a week.