Spain is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse mix of flavors, textures, and aromas. Whether you're an expat in Spain, a traveler exploring the country, or simply someone who loves good food, Spanish cuisine is full of surprises, traditions, and fascinating stories.

From the saffron-scented paella to the sweet delight of churros con chocolate, every dish has a rich history and even a few myths surrounding its origins. So, if you want to eat like a local, here are five must-try Spanish dishes—along with some intriguing curiosities and legends!

🥘 Paella – The Iconic Rice Dish of Spain

A Brief History of Paella

Paella is Spain’s most famous dish, originating from Valencia in the 15th century. The dish was traditionally prepared by farmers and laborers who cooked rice with whatever ingredients they had—typically rabbit, chicken, and vegetables. Over time, coastal regions adapted it to include seafood, creating the delicious versions we know today.

Did You Know? – The Myth of the Romantic Paella

One popular legend claims that the word "paella" comes from the Spanish phrase "para ella", meaning "for her." According to the story, a man wanted to impress his lover by cooking a special dish, so he gathered the best ingredients he could find and made paella. While this is more of a fun myth than a historical fact, it adds a romantic touch to Spain’s most famous meal!

Types of Paella You Must Try

• Paella Valenciana – The most traditional version, made with rabbit, chicken, white beans, green beans, and saffron.
• Seafood Paella – A coastal favorite featuring prawns, mussels, clams, and squid, cooked with a rich seafood broth.
• Mixed Paella – A fusion of meat and seafood, offering the best of both worlds.
• Vegetarian Paella – A plant-based twist, made with seasonal vegetables, artichokes, and mushrooms.

Why Paella is a Must-Try Dish

• Authentic Spanish Experience – Paella is best enjoyed in Valencia, where it’s prepared following traditional methods.
• Rich, Saffron-Infused Flavor – Saffron, one of the world’s most expensive spices, gives paella its distinct golden color and unique aroma.
• Perfect for Sharing – Paella is meant to be eaten straight from the pan, making it a social and communal dish.

Best Places to Eat Paella

If you're in Spain, the best place to try paella is in Valencia, where the dish was born. Locals insist that authentic paella should only be eaten at lunchtime—never for dinner!

🍢 Tapas – Small Bites, Big Flavors

The Origin of Tapas

Tapas are a way of life in Spain, but where did they come from? One legend says that King Alfonso X of Castile was once sick and could only eat small portions of food with his wine. When he recovered, he declared that all taverns must serve food with drinks, and the tapa (small bite) was born!

Did You Know? – The "Cover Your Drink" Theory

Another fun myth suggests that tapas were originally pieces of bread or ham placed over a glass of wine to keep flies out! Over time, bartenders started adding more elaborate toppings, leading to the delicious tapas culture we enjoy today.

Popular Tapas Dishes You Must Try

• Patatas Bravas – Crispy fried potatoes topped with spicy tomato sauce and garlic aioli.
• Jamón Ibérico – Spain’s famous cured ham, aged for years to develop its unique, savory taste.
• Gambas al Ajillo – Juicy shrimp cooked in olive oil, garlic, and chili flakes.
• Tortilla Española – A traditional Spanish omelet made with eggs, potatoes, and onions.
• Croquetas – Crispy, deep-fried bites filled with ham, cheese, or seafood.

Why Tapas Are a Must-Try Experience

The Social Aspect – Tapas are meant to be shared, making them a great way to connect with locals and other expats.

Variety of Flavors – You can try a little bit of everything, from seafood to cured meats and vegetarian options.

Perfect for Bar-Hopping – In Spain, people hop from one tapas bar to another, sampling different specialties along the way.

How to Eat Tapas Like a Local

• Never order just one – Tapas are meant to be shared, so order a variety!
• Go bar-hopping – Spaniards love to move from one bar to another, trying different tapas at each stop.
• Pair with a drink – Tapas go best with a glass of wine, beer, or vermouth.

If you’re an expat in Spain, experiencing an authentic tapas night out is a must-do cultural experience!

🐙 Pulpo a la Gallega – Galicia’s Famous Octopus Dish

The Story Behind Pulpo a la Gallega

This Galician specialty is made from tender octopus, seasoned with paprika, olive oil, and coarse salt, and served over boiled potatoes. It’s a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish, often found at traditional fiestas and markets in northern Spain.

Did You Know? – The Superstition of the Octopus Cooks

In Galicia, the best pulpo is cooked by women known as "pulpeiras", who have a secret trick: they dunk the octopus in boiling water three times before cooking it. This is believed to "scare" the octopus, making its meat more tender. Some say it's just a superstition, but Galicians swear by it!

Why Pulpo a la Gallega is So Special

• Perfectly Cooked Octopus – When done right, the octopus is soft, not chewy, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Traditional Cooking Method – Pulpo is often boiled in large copper pots, following a centuries-old cooking technique.
• Best Enjoyed with Albariño Wine – Pair it with Galicia’s famous white wine for an unbeatable flavor combination.

Best Way to Enjoy Pulpo a la Gallega

• Always eat it from a wooden plate – This helps keep the octopus warm and enhances its flavor.
• Pair it with Albariño wine – The crisp white wine from Galicia perfectly complements the dish.
• Try it at a traditional pulpería – These small octopus restaurants specialize in cooking the best pulpo in Spain!

If you love seafood, this dish will be a highlight of your food journey in Spain!

🍮Churros con Chocolate – The Sweetest Spanish Treat

The Mystery Behind Churros

Churros are one of Spain’s most beloved treats, but where did they come from? Some say that Spanish shepherds invented churros as a portable snack, while others believe that Portuguese sailors brought a similar recipe from China.

Did You Know? – The "Sheep’s Horn" Theory

One curious theory suggests that churros were named after the Churra sheep, a breed known for its curly horns that resemble the famous fried dough sticks. Whether this is true or not, it's a fun story to share while enjoying your churros!

How to Eat Churros Like a Spaniard

• Dip them in thick hot chocolate – Unlike the watery hot chocolate in other countries, Spanish chocolate is rich, thick, and perfect for dipping.
• Eat them for breakfast – In Spain, churros aren’t just a dessert—they’re a morning treat!
• Visit Madrid’s most famous churro café – Chocolatería San Ginés has been serving the best churros since 1894!

If you have a sweet tooth, this is one Spanish dish you can’t miss!

🍅Gazpacho – Spain’s Refreshing Cold Soup

The Ancient Origins of Gazpacho

Gazpacho is a cold tomato-based soup, originally from Andalusia. The dish dates back over 1,000 years, with some historians believing that Roman soldiers ate an early version of gazpacho made with bread, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar. Tomatoes were only added after they were brought from the Americas!

Did You Know? – The King’s Secret Recipe

A famous legend claims that King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella had a "royal gazpacho" recipe made with almonds and garlic, which later became Ajoblanco, a white gazpacho variation.

Why Gazpacho is a Must-Try Dish

• Perfect for hot summers – Served ice-cold, it’s refreshing and hydrating.
• Packed with fresh ingredients – It’s made with tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and olive oil.
• It has many variations – Try Salmorejo, a thicker version from Córdoba!

For the best authentic gazpacho, visit Andalusia, where locals make it fresh every day!

Experience the Best of Spanish Cuisine

Spain’s cuisine is full of flavors, history, and myths. Whether you’re an expat in Spain or just visiting, these five must-try dishes will immerse you in Spanish culture. From the romantic legend of paella to the superstitions of octopus cooking, there’s a story behind every bite.

So, next time you're in Spain, don’t just eat—experience, savor, and discover the secrets behind each dish!