Food Cultures of Spain : Cuisine, Customs, and Issues

There’s far more to Spanish food than tapas and paella. Discover the history and culture of Spain through its rich culinary traditions.

Part of the Global Kitchen series, this book takes readers on a food tour of Spain, covering everything from daily staples to holiday specialties. In addition to discovering Spain’s long culinary history, readers will learn about recent trends, foreign influences, and contemporary food and dietary concerns. Chapters are organized thematically, making it easy to focus in on particular courses or types of dishes. These include influential ingredients, appetizers, main dishes, desserts, and street food, among others. The main text is supplemented by sidebars that offer interesting bite-sized facts, a chronology of important dates in Spanish culinary history, and a glossary of key food- and dining-related terms.

Spanish cuisine evolved over centuries, influenced by the country’s diverse landscapes and inhabitants. Rooted in the Mediterranean triad of olive oil, wheat, and wine, it emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, often prepared simply to highlight their natural flavors. From the seafood-rich coasts to the cured meats and stews of the mountainous interior, each region boasts unique specialties. Social dining is central to Spanish foodways, and food remains a vital aspect of family, community, and heritage.