Discover the scents of the Mediterranean cuisine
If we want to fully appreciate the complex and varied culture of the region, exploring the local gastronomy is definitely a way to go. In the culinary art one can feel the different influences which shaped the signature fusion of fragrances and exquisite flavours so typical for the Mediterranean cuisine. The Arab culinary tradition of Al-Andalus is palpable in the adoption of commodities such as rice, citrus fruits and apricots, the discovery of the New World later brought other popular ingredients like potatoes or tomatoes. Dominant ingredients being the olive oil, rice, wheat, citrus fruits, wine, fish and seafood, the cuisine is not only delicious, but also healthy.
The Valencia region is also the birthplace of the famous paella. The dish made originally of round-grain rice coloured with saffron and cooked with variety of vegetables and mixture of rabbit and chicken became very popular all over the Iberian Peninsula. Today, the paella can be found in innumerable varieties including the seafood paella (Paella de mariscos) or paella coloured with squid ink known as Arròs negre.
If you are more of a sweet-toothed person, you’ll fall in love with Valencian orxata de xufa (beverage made with soaked, ground, and sweetened tiger nuts) accompanied by the local sweet bakery.
Needless to say that no gastronomic experience would be complete without some quality beverage to support the marvelous food. We have to state that in this field Spain definitely isn’t falling behind. The local wineries produce some of the top-quality red and white wine capable of competing with its Italian and French counterparts. Some of the well-known viticultural areas being La Rioja, Catalunya and Requena, the winemakers produce full-bodied and well-matured wine benefiting from the Spanish sun. Moreover, during the hot summer days, you will appreciate the local refreshing wine-based cocktails such as the famous sangría or tinto de verano.
However, should you happen to favor more the beer culture, nearby Murcia is hometown to the favourite Estrella beer that is to be found in any part of the region.
