pick six: tapas to try in spain

This is a basic staple for any Spanish tapas spread. Simple bread rubbed with a juicy tomato and lightly salted. Mmm. The combination leaves a tasty (and toasty) combo.

2. Croquetas

This is the tater tot’s classy cousin. Mashed potatoes mixed with delicious accompaniments like manchego cheese, tasty local meats like jamon or spiced chicken, are then rolled in bread crumbs and pan fried. The best part- most restaurants sell them for about €1.50 each. Yum.

3. Patatas Bravas

I’m a potato girl… if you saw my butt, you’d agree. I like my starches. I’m a universal starchie. Wherever carbs & potatoes may be across the world, I’ll seek them out and befriend them. In Spain, there is no exception to this affection. Lightly roasted (ok, maybe fried) potatoes with delicious spicy & creamy aoili on top. Si, señor.

4. Peppers Padron

Just because these are low in calories doesn’t mean they skimp on flavour. I could pop these like chips. Oh man. Apparently, 1 in 100 is spicy, but don’t let those odds make you sweat. Padron peppers have a fantastic (and not too spicy) flavor that makes them easy to inhale, err, eat.

5. Tortilla
I think of the Spanish tortilla as the love child of a quiche & potatoes dauphinoise. To us Texans, it’s a bit confusing as we conjure the corn or flour variation upon hearing this word. However, the tortilla of spain involves potatoes, eggs & various additions cooked in a skillet… and the result, well, it’s really delicious.

6. Chorizo
Maybe this is an obvious choice, but how could a meal be complete without Spain’s beloved chorizo? I’m not a huge pork eater, but this spicy delight will make me a believer.