The Hidden Kitchens of Barcelona

Calçots are a type of long green onion that are a popular seasonal delicacy in Catalonia, particularly in and around Barcelona. They are similar to scallions or spring onions, but are larger and milder in flavor. Calçots are typically planted in the fall and harvested in the winter or early spring. After the harvest, the onions are grilled over an open flame until the outer layer is charred and the inside is soft and tender. The charred outer layer is then removed, and the sweet, smoky onion is dipped in a romesco sauce, which is made from almonds, roasted red peppers, garlic, and other ingredients. Calçotsadas , or  calçots  festivals, are popular events in Catalonia where locals gather to celebrate the harvest of  calçots . These festivals typically feature live music, dancing, and large outdoor barbecues where the onions are grilled and served with plenty of romesco sauce. The festivals are a beloved tradition in Catalonia and are a great way to experience the loca...

 Mel i mató is a traditional Catalan dessert made from two simple ingredients: fresh cheese ( mató)  and honey ( mel ). The cheese used in mel i mató is typically a soft, unripened cheese that is similar in texture to ricotta or cottage cheese. The cheese is drained to remove excess moisture and then mixed with honey to create a creamy, sweet dessert. The dish is typically served cold and is a popular dessert in Catalonia, particularly during the summer months. It can be found in many traditional Catalan restaurants and bakeries throughout the region, but can be more difficult to find outside of the summer months. However, mató can also be found at your neighborhood dairy store or supermarket. Cover it with a generous amount of local honey and a handful of walnuts, and your dessert is ready!  What to Order Mel i mató  is a versatile dessert that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some of the most popular ways to serve  Mel i mató . Look for variation...

 Panellets are a traditional Catalan sweet that are typically served around the time of All Saints' Day (Tots Sants - November 1st)) and All Souls' Day (Dia dels Morts - November 2nd) in early November. Panellets are small, bite-sized treats made from a mixture of ground almonds, sugar, and egg, and are often flavored with ingredients like lemon zest or cinnamon. They are traditionally covered in pine nuts, but can also be coated in coconut flakes or cocoa powder. They are traditionally served as a treat with coffee, or a selection of panellets for dessert. What to Order Panellets have been a part of Catalan culinary culture for centuries, and are often served alongside other sweets and treats. They are also a popular snack throughout the fall and winter months, and can be found in many bakeries and markets throughout Catalonia. There are many different varieties of panellets , with different flavors and toppings depending on the region and the baker. Here are some of the m...

Orxata (also spelled horchata ) is a popular drink that originated in Valencia, Spain. It is made by soaking ground tiger nuts (a type of tuber) in water, sweetening the mixture with sugar, and adding cinnamon and/or lemon zest for flavor. The resulting drink is milky-white in color and has a slightly sweet, nutty taste with a hint of spice. Orxata is sometimes also available without sugar, so make sure to ask. The nutritional value of horchata can vary depending on the recipe and ingredients used. However, in general, traditional horchata made with tiger nuts is a fairly healthy drink with several nutritional benefits. Horchata is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Orxata is a popular drink in many Spanish-speaking countries, as well as in North Africa and parts of West Africa, where it is sometimes made with other ingredients such as rice or sesame seeds. In some regions of Mexico and Central America, orxata is made with rice ...

Having a vermouth or " vermut " in Barcelona is a longstanding tradition that is deeply ingrained in the city's culture. Vermouth is a type of fortified wine that is aromatized with various botanicals, such as herbs, spices, and roots, giving it a unique and complex flavor. In Barcelona, vermouth is typically enjoyed as an aperitif before lunch or dinner, often with a variety of small snacks or " tapas ." The tradition of having a vermouth dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when it was common for workers to take a break from their labors and gather at local bars to enjoy a glass of vermouth and some small bites. Over time, this tradition became more widespread, and today it is a beloved ritual that is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. Many bars and cafés in Barcelona specialize in serving vermouth, and some even have their own house-made varieties. Some of the most popular accompaniments to vermouth include olives, anchovies, cure...

Pan con tomate , also known as  pa amb tomàquet or pan tumaca  in Catalan, or "bread with tomato" is a traditional Catalan dish that is popular throughout the region of Catalonia, including the city of Barcelona. It is a simple yet delicious dish that is typically eaten as a breakfast, snack, or accompaniment to a meal. The dish consists of a slice of crusty bread that is toasted or grilled, rubbed with garlic, and then topped with grated or pureed fresh tomatoes, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt. The bread is typically a rustic country-style loaf, and the tomatoes are ripe, juicy, and full of flavor.  In addition to being a delicious and simple dish,  pan con tomate  is also a staple of Catalan cuisine and a symbol of the region's identity, reflecting the region's emphasis on simple, fresh ingredients and rustic, traditional flavors. The first written reference to bread with tomato seemingly dates from 1884. It is said to have originated as a way for...

  Churros con chocolate  is a delicious and iconic snack in Barcelona (and throughout Spain) and is a must-try for anyone visiting the city.  Churros are a type of fried dough pastry, often served in long or circular thin shapes, while chocolate is a rich and thick hot chocolate sauce that is used for dipping the churros .  The history of chocolate in Barcelona dates back to the 16th century, when Spain began to import cocoa beans from the New World. At the time, chocolate was considered a luxury item and was only consumed by the wealthy. But by the 18th century, chocolate had become more widely available in Barcelona, and it was often consumed in the form of hot chocolate. Chocolate houses began to spring up throughout the city, and they became popular gathering places for intellectuals and artists. What to Order When ordering churros con chocolate in Barcelona, you can expect to receive a plate of warm, crispy churros alongside a small pot of thick, rich chocol...