Have you been to Spain or Spanish restaurants before? You might already know this, but Spain offers a wide range of stews. Since every region in the country contributes to developing its cuisine, there are many different options when it comes to choosing a hearty meal.
But although they share a diverse culture and history, each region in Spain managed to tell people what Spanish cuisine is.
And even if you don’t visit Spanish restaurants, you can make a great Spanish stew at home. Just click a few buttons, wait for your ingredients, and start cooking!
But if you’re wondering about which stew you should try first, you can check the list of Spanish stews below that you should try!
1. Ollada
Instead of a hug during the colder days, why not enjoy a bowl of Ollada? It’s meaty, and also has some vegetables that can warm up your body. It’s a traditional stew in Catalan and Valencia that’s also served warm.
If you don’t have pork, you also have the option to add veal or duck, while the vegetables are mostly potatoes and carrots. And when it comes to the soup, beef stock with a bit of red wine is recommended.
2. Cocido madrileño
Cocido madrileño has been a part of Spanish cuisine for a very long time. However, its name was just finalised in the 17th century. For there, this stew became a peasant food to a regular home-cooked meal.
According to historians, Cocido madrileño originated from another stew called Adafina. They both contain various meats and vegetables and are sometimes added with eggs or cheese for a richer flavour.
Unfortunately, if you’re looking for an easy-to-make stew, this is not the right meal for you since it takes hours to cook. However, you can still taste it when you visit Spanish restaurants.
3. Rabo de Toro
Care for a Spanish Bull Tail Stew or also known as Rabo de Toro? Its original main ingredient is the bull tail, but it’s more likely that you’ll be served with lamb or beef. However, during the Roman times when bulls lost from bullfights, actual bull tails were added. People also make other dishes from the other parts of the lost bulls.
Usually, you’ll also see a side of fries when you order this dish. Meanwhile, the common ingredients of Rabo de Toro are tomatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, and different herbs and spices.
4. Fabada
If you have some extra time, you can make Fabada at home. It’s a popular dish from Asturias, which is why it’s also called Fabada Asturiana. It’s made from large white beans that are soaked overnight.
The white beans are then added with some meats like pancetta or ham, and also have some of Spain’s basic ingredients like olive oil, paprika, garlic, and salt. A good thing about Fabada is that it’s a heavy dish, which means you don’t have to worry about side dishes.
It’s also recommended that you eat it during lunch so that you won’t be so full if you eat it for dinner.
5. Olla Podrida
Almost similar to other bean-based stews, Olla Podrida is another popular dish you can taste in Spanish restaurants since it also takes time to cook. Traditionally, it’s cooked in a clay pot which may be the reason why its direct translation is “rotten pot”.
Additionally, Olla Podrida also contains a mix of meats and veggies that can be eaten as a single dish or main course. You can also find other versions of this meal in Portugal and other countries.
6. Porrusalda
Not a fan of meaty stews? Then you should try Porrusalda because it’s normally made with leeks and potatoes. Aside from being no meat, it can be prepared in a matter of time since the vegetables don’t need too much time to cook.
That’s why you’ll just need to simmer it for a few minutes to achieve a good soup consistency. Some people add meat sometimes so make sure to cheque it first when ordering, but can get the authentic ones at Spanish restaurants.
7. Fabes con Almejas
Fabes con Almejas is almost the same as fabada, but this one contains clams. Aside from that, it also has butter, vegetables, and wine to enrich the flavour. It’s also been called another peasant food during the 19th century.
So if you’re craving a lighter stew that you can prepare anytime, try Fabes con Almejas.
Craving for something warm for dinner? Then you should try any of these stews! They’re like a hug, only better. So don’t hesitate to share with us your go-to Spanish stew by leaving a comment below!
