Spain is a smorgasbord of different tastes, textures and inspirations. Whilst the north is heavily influenced by French cuisine, Andalucía, located on the southernmost tip of the Iberian Peninsula, has an altogether different flavour. Andalucía’s crowning gem, Marbella, has long been known for its luxury living and sophisticated culture, and its proximity to the sea and wealth of quality ingredients makes it an essential stop on any food lover’s travel list.
We’ve compiled a checklist of the region’s best dishes that will delight every palate:
- Gambas al pilpil (garlic prawns):
Available as a starter, main or tapa, this dish is a seasoned favourite among expats and locals alike. Simple but delicious, gambas al pilpil is garlic and chilli prawns served in sizzling olive oil and is best enjoyed with a mountain of bread.
- Fritura Malagueña (fried fish):
Sample the best of the Med with this platter of fried seafood. This Andalusian favourite is a mixed selection of local fish fried in a salt-seasoned batter and served with a slice of fresh lemon. If you’re looking for a luxurious setting at which to sample it, La Cabane Beach Club has a wonderful selection of seafood on its lunchtime buffet.
- Tapas:
Perhaps Spain’s most quintessential and enduring creation – after the Flamenco dress and matador that is. Our favourite dishes include croquetas (Iberian ham, seafood or otherwise), boquerones (anchovies), pulpo (octopus), patatas bravas (spicy potatoes) and pimiento del piquillo (spicy peppers).
- Espetos de sardinas (sardines):
This is Málaga’s speciality. The sardines are cooked and prepared in the traditional way by being skewered and then roasted over an open flame, ideally in an old fishing boat-turned-barbeque on the beach. Most chiringuitos offer this simple yet delicious dish.
- Jamón serrano and Iberico:
As one of Spain’s most famous delicacies, Spanish cured ham has been tried, tested and perfected over the centuries. Most tapas bars serve it and it is used as an ingredient in many Andalusian recipes too.
- Boquerones (anchovies):
Any trip to Marbella is not complete without tryingits famous anchovies. Served as tapas or as an appetiser, they are usually marinated in vinegar and olive oil, and seasoned with garlic, or deep-fried in a crispy batter.
- Queso curado (aged cheese):
A vintage classic and more than just a farmer’s favourite, best enjoyed with jamón serrano at La Taberna in Marbella. The best varieties are made with sheep or goats’ milk.
- Gazpacho:
This chilled soup may be renowned, but Málaga does it best. You can find it in any tapas bar and better yet – it’s easy to make, so you can impress your friends back home!
For a special selection of Andalusian dishes with a modern twist, the Michelin starred El Lago is one of the top restaurants in Marbella for a full meal in delightful surroundings.
Greenlife Estates has a variety of properties for sale in Elviria Hills near this luxurious restaurant, so you can enjoy the best local cuisinein style without having to travel. Please contact us for more information.
Massimo Filippa
