Culinary Delights: Discovering Traditional Spanish Fare in Costa Blanca

Now this must be the premiere introduction to Costa Blanca Spain if ever there was one. Land of sand, sun and spices! When you go straying into this vibrant stretch of sweet Spain, be ready for a trip in gastronomy. The food is life itself here–not whispering but shouting!

Langoustines in its own natural juices, Paella is a paean to the creole culture of Spain. Ranking as Spain’s first culinary symbol. Coming from Valencia, it prances around Costa Blanca’s cookrooms. Picture golden rice with saffron, dancing off rabbits the size of chickens and local sea fishes to tantalize your tongue. For days afterwards, it’s a medley of flavors that you hum.

Then there are Tapas, which tap as they arrive at the table and threaten to take over. Every bite is a surprise party for your palate. Croquetas… Patatas Bravas served in spicy tomato sauce… and Jamón Ibérico sliced so thin that you can almost see through it. Once you start eating them, tapas are like potato chips; you can’t stop with just one. Pile in together with a friend or five. Life stories will be exchanged in no time over a table-full of plates.

And what about the wonders of seafood? This is the Mediterranean showing off at its best. There is octopus grilled to a smoky turn, oiled with a drop or two of the best olive oil. Or a whole fish baked alongside garlic and lemons till it falls off the bone. Visualize the waves whispering secrets while you savor every morsel. Each mouthful is a taste of salty joy.

And while you’re nibbling and noshing do not forget to add a little Vino to the blend. The area has been a region of vineyards since time immemorial. Try a glass of Monastrell wine–it’s like a hug in a bottle. Bold, beautiful and with an easy note of nostalgia.

For those with a sweet tooth, Turrón will be the cherry on top of your meal. This almond and honey nougat will have you sneaking pieces long after everyone else has moved from the table. But don’t expect your waistline to say Thank you.

In Costa Blanca, it’s not simply a question of filling one’s belly. It’s embracing a living culture -one mouthful at a time. From every plate you will find love, joy maybe just a little bit of roguishness thrown into the mix. My advise? Go where the smells draw you, join in with locals and let the gourmet inside you run wild. The food waiting here is a banquet of Spain’s other corner, and it needs another guest!