Asturian cuisine

Asturian cuisine refers to the traditional dishes and culinary practices associated with the Asturias region in northern Spain. Known for its rich and diverse food culture, Asturian cuisine is characterized by hearty meals, fresh seafood, and unique dairy products.

History

Asturian cuisine has a long history that dates back to the Celtic tribes who inhabited the region. The Celts introduced the use of cauldrons, spits, and the consumption of cider, which are still integral parts of the Asturian culinary tradition. Over the centuries, the cuisine has been influenced by various cultures, including the Romans, the Moors, and the French, each contributing to its unique flavor profile.

Ingredients

Asturian cuisine is known for its use of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The region's coastal location provides an abundance of seafood, including hake, salmon, and octopus. The inland areas are known for their cattle farming, providing beef and dairy products. Asturias is also famous for its apple orchards, which produce the apples used in making the region's traditional cider, known as sidra.

Dishes

Some of the most popular dishes in Asturian cuisine include fabada asturiana, a hearty bean stew made with large white beans, pork, and sausages; cachopo, a dish consisting of two large veal steaks filled with ham and cheese, then breaded and fried; and arroz con leche, a sweet rice pudding flavored with cinnamon. Another notable dish is queso de Cabrales, a strong blue cheese made in the Picos de Europa mountains.

Beverages

The most iconic beverage in Asturian cuisine is sidra, a type of cider made from locally grown apples. The cider is traditionally poured from a height to aerate it, a practice known as escanciar. Asturias is also known for its wines, particularly those produced in the Cangas region.

See also

• Spanish cuisine
• Celtic cuisine
• Mediterranean cuisine