Galician Cuisine: Discovering the Delights of Spanish Food in Galicia

We have a deep love for Spanish cuisine, from the cozy tapas joints to the avant-garde creations in Michelin-star restaurants. On a recent trip to Galicia, we were delighted to discover the rich culinary tradition of Galician food, which showcases the best of Spanish cuisine.

Here are 14 traditional Galician dishes that you must try when visiting Galicia:

1. Galician Octopus (Pulpo Gallego): Once you’ve tasted Galician octopus, other octopus dishes will pale in comparison. Boiled in a copper pot and served with paprika and salt, this delicacy is often served at fairs and festivals.
2. Steamed Mussels (Mejillones al Vapor): In Galicia, mussels are enjoyed simply steamed with a squeeze of lemon. Take a mussel boat ride in O Grove to learn about mussel farming and savor the freshness of these succulent mollusks.
3. Razor Clams (Navajas): Galicia’s coast is abundant with razor clams, which are simple cooked by steaming them with a little olive oil. These clams are known for their delicate flavor and uniqueness.
4. Pork Shoulder (Lecon con Grelos): This hearty Galician dish, mentioned since the 17th century, is served with chorizo, vegetables, and turnip tops. Its distinctive bitter taste will evoke memories of grandmothers’ cooking.
5. Tetilla Cheese (Queixo de Tetilla): This mild cheese with a slightly nutty flavor is shaped like a woman’s breast, celebrating Galicia’s rebellious dairy farmers who formed this cheese as a sign of solidarity.
6. Padron Peppers (Pimientos de Padron): Enjoyed as a simple yet delicious dish, these peppers are fried whole and sprinkled with rock salt. Some are mild, while others are spicy, adding an element of surprise to every bite.
7. Galician Broth (Caldo Gallego): This comforting Galician broth features vegetables, potatoes, white beans, turnip tops, and sometimes pork. It is a favorite in the winter and is praised for its restorative effects.
8. Empanadas: While empanadas are often associated with Latin America, Galicia’s version originates from nearby Portugal, inspired by the samosa from the Portuguese colony of Goa. They are typically filled with tuna, octopus, cockles, cod, or chorizo.
9. Santiago Cake (Tarta de Santiago): A symbolic dessert of Santiago de Compostela, this cake is made with ground almonds, sugar, eggs, and occasionally brandy. Its cross-shaped decoration represents St. James, the patron saint of Santiago.
10. Galician Biscuits / Cookies (Caprichos): These small biscuits made from toasted almonds, sugar, and eggs are a traditional treat for pilgrims completing the Camino de Santiago.
11. Fried Milk (Leite Frita): This delectable dessert involves battering and frying a milk custard with a sprinkling of sugar and cinnamon. Once you start eating it, you won’t be able to stop.
12. Albarino Wine: Don’t miss out on trying Galicia’s famous Albarino wine, with its citrusy flavor and floral notes. Visit the vineyards in Cambados for a taste of this refreshing white wine.
13. Nordes Gin: Made with the Albarino grape, Nordes Gin stands out with its bold floral flavor. This gin is infused with 12 botanicals, including hibiscus, lemon peels, eucalyptus, and liquorice.
14. Orujo: A popular drink in Galicia, Orujo is a brandy distilled from pomace, the leftover grape skins and seeds after winemaking. In Galicia, it is commonly used to make the traditional drink called queimada.

Galicia’s diverse and unique cuisine offers a plethora of flavors to explore. When you venture to this enchanting region, make sure to indulge in these delightful dishes and drinks and share your opinions with us!

If you found this guide helpful, you might also enjoy our other Spain-related posts:

1. Top things to do in Galicia: Our 2-day guide to food, culture, wine, and more in Galicia, Spain.
2. Where to go in Spain: The best places to visit in Spain. Discover the diverse wonders of this country before you plan your trip.
3. Barcelona Sightseeing by Bicycle: Experience the vibrant city of Barcelona through a bicycle tour for a quick, fun, and healthy way to explore.
4. Unmissable things to do in Lleida, Spain: Explore the Pyrenees region with our essential guide to Lleida, including national parks and stargazing.
5. The Quiet Side of Ibiza: Escape the crowds and discover the serene side of Ibiza – from empty beaches to ancient shrines.
6. San Sebastian Pintxos Tour with Devour tours: If you’re a food lover visiting San Sebastian, indulge in a pintxos tour to experience the culinary delights of the city.

Source: Galician Food Spanish Cuisine At Its Best | The Dishes You Have To Try In Galicia