Guide Note

While each region of Spain has its own twist on Spanish food, there are certain cuisine elements that are common across the country. Olive oil, potatoes, soup, garlic, seafood and shellfish are all common in Spanish cuisine, as is pork, sausages, and cheeses. Wine is a popular accompaniment to an evening meal.

Fast Facts

1. Cuisine varies by region
2. Influenced by Moorish and Jewish cuisine
3. Olive Oil is used heavily
4. Most famous wine: Sherry

Tapas, much like meze in Middle Eastern cuisine or dim sum in Chinese cuisine, is the catchall term for small plates of foods. There are usually a wide variety of dishes served, and there are hundreds of different tapas dishes. A venue that specializes in tapas is called a tapas bar in the United States and a tasca in Spain.

Paella (pronounced pah-EH-yuh) is a rice dish flavored with saffron that includes an assortment of vegetables, as well as seafood and/or meat.

Cocido is a slow-cooked meat, vegetable and chickpea stew. Though paella is more famous, cocido is widely considered the national dish of Spain.