Melbourne brunch in a Spanish cuisine has been among the favorites of many. From its humble (yet interesting) beginnings, it is now considered one of the most loved world cuisines. There is no shortage of authentic Spanish delights in all four corners of the globe, thanks to Spanish restaurants everywhere. Also, many have shared different ways to prepare Spanish delicacies at home.
Let’s get to know more about Spanish cuisine to appreciate it more. Let’s take a deep dive into its colorful background, characteristics, common famous dishes, and many more to see how lovely Spanish cuisine really is. So, are you ready to embark on this Spanish culinary tour? Let’s go!
Contributing influences
Historical influences
Spanish cuisine has been strongly influenced by different cultures from its visitors dating back to Ancient times. Here is a timeline of the Spanish cuisine’s colorful past:
1100 B.C.
As the Phoenicians arrived, they built a colony called Gadir, which is now known as Cadiz. This area has been a significant place for trade and commerce during this time. The Phoenicians stayed for many centuries and built more colonies which are known today as Huelva and Malaga.
218 B.C.
This is the time when the Romans arrived on the shores of the Iberian Peninsula. The Romans have contributed a huge part in building Spain’s character and way of life in general. The following are some of Roman’s contribution to Spain:
– Government
– Culture and art
– Agricultural techniques and advanced technology (at that time)
711 A.D.
From the straits of Gibraltar, the Berbers invaded the Iberian Peninsula and settled in South and Central Spain where they stayed for centuries. Just like the Romans, Berbers also contributed to Spain’s knowledge of agriculture. They also introduced their fruits, spices, and vegetables.
1492
Advancing to the 15th century, Spain has made significant strides in gaining power so much so that explorers set off on various voyages to conquer territories. As they set sail to conquer South America, explorers brought back with them native produce such as potatoes, avocados, papayas, cacao, peppers, corn, and many more. The Spanish grew and reproduced these staples which in turn became widely used in their dishes.
Geographical and topographical influences
Just like any other cuisines all over the world, Spanish cuisine is deeply rooted out of its geographical and topographical characteristics. Thanks to Spain’s variety in landscape and seascape, both strongly contributed to the cuisine we all love today. This is something that everyone can experience in an authentic Spanish restaurant for some Melbourne brunch out.
Aside from geography and topography, the Iberian Peninsula is also blessed with mild climates suitable for growing fresh produce. Unlike other countries in Europe, Spain’s climate is tolerable, enjoying warm summers and generally mild winters which are beneficial to grow vegetation.
To better understand the correlation between climate and geography to the Spanish cuisine, here are the different culinary regions of Spain:
North of Spain
This region is known for its rich and savory sauces. They are also famous for fresh kinds of seafood especially in the regions of Asturias and Galicia.
Pyrenees
Oh, this lovely mountainous region! From sea to mountains, Spain is abundant with these natural wonders. This region is known for the chilindrones sauce which is made of red peppers, tomato, and garlic.
Cataluna
This region is famous for its casseroles or cazuelas. This area, just like the rest of Spain, is also known for its fresh vegetables, especially tomato, garlic, eggplant, artichoke, and bell peppers.
The Eastern Regions
Who doesn’t know about Paella Valenciana? Well, this savory and intricate dish hails from the Eastern Regions of Spain. The Autonomous Community of Valenciana is also included in this interesting region.
Andalucia
If Paella Valenciana is to the Eastern region, fried fish and tapas are common staples in the Andalucia region. People here enjoy drinking with tapas in tow.
Central Spain
If you enjoy meat, then Central Spain is the perfect region for you. They love roasted meat dishes and cocidos or stews on this side of Spain. Also, this region includes Castilla-Leon. Some restaurants that serve Melbourne brunch has the dishes inspired by Central Spain.
Spanish cuisine world domination through a Melbourne lunch experience
Spanish cuisine is well-loved and popular, period. Remember though that before it reached such status, many contributed to how it became popular. However, it is important to note that the Spanish cooking influence became even more robust in the year 2007. The crisis in 2007 saw a significant increase in Spanish expatriates because of the high unemployment rate in Spain.
Since these expatriates are getting homesick, they found themselves cooking authentic Spanish dishes wherever they were. Of course, they had to also share their prepared dishes with their colleagues. In turn, these colleagues/friends, etc. loved the dishes and wanted to prepare them at home.
In the process of curing homesickness, many people got curious. As such, they shared different recipes. More people knew about the dishes and some even saw the income potential of opening a Spanish restaurant. As they say, the rest is history.
There is the truth as someone says that when a door closes, a window opens. In this case, the 2007 Spanish crisis opened opportunities to budding entrepreneurs outside the country, thus making this cuisine even more prolific.
Other must-try Spanish dishes when one has a Melbourne brunch in an authentic Spanish restaurant:
Spanish Omelet
Spanish restaurants most likely have the traditional Spanish omelet. However, those fortunate enough to vacation in Spain swear by how great this dish tastes! This egg, meat, vegetable, and potato dish is simple but bursting with flavor.
There are quite a number of versions that sprung from the traditional way of preparing the omelet. Regardless of the version, the tortilla de patatas or Spanish omelet is one dish that has to be tried. If you can’t go to Spain yet (for obvious reasons), then head out to the nearest Spanish restaurant near you and sample this lovely dish.
Gazpacho
As earlier mentioned, Spain’s climate and geography are ideal for growing the best-tasting and freshest produce. Vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and garlic are highlighted in this cold soup. Sherry vinegar, olive oil, and crust of bread add to the beautiful gazpacho concoction. You surely don’t want to miss trying it.
Cochinillo Asado
Have you ever tried this in an authentic Spanish restaurant? Did you see how they serve this up? Alright, if not, then you better try this roasted suckling pig dish. Warning though, the cochinillo asado can be addicting. Be sure to have a good workout plan after feasting on this dish.
The cochinillo has an awesome combination of crispiness and tenderness. Bite into the skin and you can hear a melodic crackling sound. Even better, the skin that makes the crackling sound comes full of flavor too. Now, on to the meat. If the skin is so crispy, the meat is so unbelievably tender, juicy, and moist.
So, going back to the earlier question about how they serve the cochinillo. Do you know how (if you haven’t seen it yet)? No, they don’t use knives to carve it. They use a ceramic plate to slice through the dish! This is to demonstrate how tender the meat is. Amazing!
In conclusion
There’s a lot to love about Spanish cuisine. From history to a unique blend of ingredients, dishes come together creating this wonderful balance of all flavorful components. However, there’s still more to discover about Spanish cuisine.
Yes, there are the more popular dishes, but it’s worth trying the others that are just under the radar. Head to the best authentic Spanish restaurant near you and order for exotic dishes they have on the menu for some unforgettable Melbourne brunch! It will be worth it!