Is there anything better than sitting down for a meal with your friends, tucking into a variety of small plates and snacks with a cold beer or wine on the side? We don’t think so.
That’s why we’re gearing up for World Tapas, Day which is taking place on Thursday 15 June. The worldwide celebration of Spain’s tapas culture, when little plates get big recognition, is a chance for food lovers to discover this delicious culinary tradition, with a series of special tours, workshops and menus designed in collaboration with various chefs and restaurants.
London is full of excellent Spanish tapas restaurants, but to really immerse yourself in this fun and laid-back style of eating, try heading to Granada and Jaén in Andalucia, Spain.
The combination of rolling fields, and proximity to mountains and sea has led to a varied gastronomy in Granada – one that’s been passed down since the Moorish period. The pretty region is particularly famous for its garlicky soups, stews and Sacromonte omelettes, which are made with locally grown vegetables and meat. The remojon salad, made with cod, oranges, ‘poor man’s potatoes’, fried egg, breadcrumbs and pork is another specialty dish, and one that you can try on the cobbled streets of the city, or in a countryside restaurant.
Jaén, meanwhile, has its own culinary appeal. Not only is it home to the largest number of protected castles and fortresses in Spain, it also stands within acres of olive groves, earning it the title of Olive Oil Capital of the World. Try fried aubergines with honey, local broad beans and delicious sweet pastries made with walnuts.
Whether you head to Spain, or spend it in London, make sure Thursday 15 June is spent eating delicious sharing plates with friends. Visit spain.info/en/world-tapas-day-spain and search #TapasDay. Fly to Granada and Jaén with BA/Easyjet.
