Weird Spanish Food: The 7 Most Unique Foods to Eat in Spain

Are you planning a vacation to Spain? Then you’re probably likely about the vibrant culture, historic sites, and the rich tapestry of Spanish food. While tapas and wine are must-try items, Spain also offers some unique culinary experiences that might surprise you. Here is a sampling of some of the weird Spanish foods you might encounter on your trip.

1. Shredded Baby Eel
2. Goose Barnacles
3. Bull Testicles
4. Galician Octopus
5. Bull’s Tail
6. Pig’s Ear
7. Breadcrumbs
Weird Spanish Food: Our Readers’ Questions Answered

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1. Shredded Baby Eel

Those who love fresh seafood are in for a treat while traveling in Spain. Angulas, or baby eels, are shredded and served fried or sautéed. In many cases, they look like pasta when served with a vinaigrette dressing, but they certainly don’t taste like it. They also often accompany salads or pasta.

2. Goose Barnacles

Another oceanic treat, percebes are goose or gooseneck barnacles that grow on hard underwater surfaces like rocks. They are actually quite the delicacy and known for being very costly. Adventurous diners with a few extra euros to spare enjoy barnacles by sucking them out of their shells.

3. Bull Testicles

A traditional dish with a long history, including stories of increased bravery and manliness in those who eat them, bull testicles are breaded and fried in many Spanish dining establishments. Locally called criadillas, they are often served with a spicy wine sauce.

4. Galician Octopus

Known for being rubbery, pulpo de gallego is generally frozen to reduce some of that pesky texture. It is then boiled and typically prepared as a stew with boiled potatoes and vegetables.

5. Bull’s Tail

As if eating the testicles weren’t enough, Spaniards also have a tasty way of preparing bull’s tail. Rabo de toro is a simmering stew that features tomatoes, beef stock, vegetables, and lots of spices. Some chefs give it a boost of flavor with one of the country’s many noteworthy wines. Less prestigious restaurants may serve a variation of the dish with cow’s tail.

6. Pig’s Ear

You might think a pig’s ear is best suited for a dog’s chew snack, but in Spain oreja de cerdo is a popular tapa. It’s generally served as part of a stew or roasted with vegetables.

7. Breadcrumbs

Proving that not all of Spain’s so-called strange foods are for the carnivorous types, breadcrumbs are one dish you may be surprised to see on the menu. Cooked with garlic, paprika, and olive oil, migas make a simple meal that is quite popular throughout the country. Variations of the dish include chorizo and may be eaten with grapes or melon.

If you’re planning a trip to Spain, there’s one other thing you won’t want to forget – brushing up on your Spanish skills. With snails, bull testicles, and other oddities on the menu, you’ll be glad to understand the options and know what you’re ordering! If you’re interested in learning about Spanish classes near you, contact us today. And if you’ve traveled to Spain and have an interesting food story to share, make sure to write in the comments section below!

Weird Spanish Food: Our Readers’ Questions Answered

What is the weirdest Spanish food?

One of the weirdest Spanish foods is Angulas, or baby eels. These tiny, translucent eels are often fried or sautéed and served in a vinaigrette dressing, making them look like pasta but taste uniquely different. They are considered a delicacy in Spain and are typically enjoyed by adventurous eaters.

What are the most delicious foods in Spain?

Spain is renowned for its delicious cuisine, with some of the most popular dishes being Paella, a savory rice dish often made with seafood or chicken, Jamon Iberico, a high-quality cured ham, and Tortilla Española, a thick potato omelet. These dishes highlight the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Spanish food.

What are some disgusting Spanish foods?

To some, Criadillas (bull testicles) and Percebes (goose barnacles) might be considered disgusting Spanish foods. Criadillas are breaded and fried, often served with a spicy sauce, while Percebes are enjoyed by sucking them out of their shells. Both dishes are unique to Spanish cuisine and can be challenging for the uninitiated. However, it is the idea of the food that is disgusting to some. The flavors, on the other hand, are truly delicious!

What is the most unique Spanish food?

One of the most unique Spanish foods is Rabo de Toro, or bull’s tail stew. This traditional dish involves simmering bull’s tail with tomatoes, beef stock, vegetables, and a variety of spices. The result is a rich, flavorful stew that is deeply rooted in Spanish culinary heritage and showcases the country’s ability to turn unusual ingredients into gourmet dishes.