Take a culinary tour of Spain.
What comes to mind when you think of Spanish food? Tapas, sangria, paella, chorizo, gazpacho and tortilla espanola? In tonight’s class we’ll introduce you to some traditional dishes as well as some of Spain’s more modern creations that reflect the contributions of both her conquerors and those she herself conquered.
The Romans introduced olives and grapes, leading the Spanish to cook with olive oil as much as their Italian cousins and to produce their own wines. The Moors arrived from North Africa and, in addition to saffron and rice, brought with them citrus and the use of sweeter spices, such as cinnamon, in savory meat dishes. Exploration of the New World ultimately led Spain to incorporate foreign ingredients such as peppers, beans, potatoes, and cocoa into traditional Spanish dishes. In tonight’s class we will enjoy a gastronomic journey of international cultural influence.
