The culinary landscape of Almería is a delightful fusion of Murcian influences and the rich gastronomic traditions of the Alpujarras in Granada. It's a cuisine that celebrates the bounty of the sea, given Almería's coastal location, with a distinctive flair for using pepper, a nod to its Murcian ties.
Almería's fertile lands contribute to a variety of dishes, from hearty stews to the pot of green broad beans and the distinctive red garlics, a speciality from the Almanzora Caves.
Moorish Soup: Originating from Almanzora, this soup is enriched with minced meat (excluding pork), lentils, peppers, and a blend of spices, creating a rich and aromatic experience.
Partridges with 'Gurullos': A rustic dish featuring partridges accompanied by 'gurullos', a type of pasta made from hard wheat, water, and saffron, embodying the essence of traditional Almerían cuisine.
Broth of Eggs: A comforting stew combining tomatoes, onions, garlic, peppers, potatoes, and eggs, simmering together to create a symphony of flavours.
Almería's proximity to the sea means an abundance of marine delicacies, including monkfish, mackerel, red mullet, octopus, squid, cuttlefish, and the prized red prawn. These are most commonly enjoyed grilled, allowing their natural flavours to shine, though they are also delicious in stews.
Paprika Broth: A simple yet flavourful soup made with fresh anchovies or sardines, boiled potatoes, and peppers, infused with the warmth of paprika.
'Brave' Potatoes (Patatas Bravas): A beloved tapas dish, featuring diced potatoes served with a robust and spicy tomato sauce.
'Ajoblanco': A refreshing cold soup of Andalusian origin, crafted with bread and crushed almonds, with roots tracing back to Roman times.
Almería's gastronomy is a testament to its cultural heritage, offering a taste that is as diverse as its history. Whether you're savouring the catch of the day by the seaside or indulging in a traditional stew in the mountains, the flavours of Almería are sure to leave a lasting impression.