Madrid is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in Europe, especially during the Christmas season. And what better way to celebrate this festive season than by indulging in some traditional Madrid Christmas foods? In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular dishes that are eaten in Madrid during the holiday season.
Roast Suckling Pig
One of the most iconic dishes served during Christmas in Madrid is roast suckling pig. It’s a succulent, savory dish that’s perfect for any festive occasion.
The pig is slow-roasted with garlic and spices until it’s tender and juicy. It’s then served with crispy skin and accompanied by sides like roasted vegetables or potatoes.
Turron
Turron is a type of nougat made from honey, sugar, and almonds. It’s a popular Christmas treat all over Spain, but Madrid has its own unique version called Turron de Jijona. This variety is softer and creamier than other types of turron and is made using ground almonds instead of whole ones.
Roscón de Reyes
Roscón de Reyes is a sweet pastry that’s typically eaten on January 6th to celebrate the arrival of the Three Kings (Los Reyes Magos). It’s a ring-shaped cake made with candied fruits, nuts, and sometimes filled with whipped cream or custard. It’s also common to hide a small figurine or toy inside the cake, which brings good luck to whoever finds it.
Cordero Asado
Cordero Asado (roast lamb) is another popular dish served during Christmas in Madrid. The lamb is seasoned with garlic and herbs before being slow-roasted until it’s tender and flavorful. It’s often served with roasted potatoes or vegetables on the side.
Polvorones
Polvorones are a type of Spanish shortbread that’s typically eaten during Christmas. They’re made with flour, sugar, almonds, and lard.
The dough is then shaped into small rounds before being baked until golden brown. These crumbly treats are perfect for snacking on throughout the day or as an after-dinner dessert.
Sopa de Ajo
Sopa de Ajo (garlic soup) is a warming and hearty soup that’s perfect for cold winter nights. It’s made with garlic, bread crumbs, paprika, and chicken stock. The soup is then topped with a poached egg and served hot.
Conclusion:
Madrid has a rich culinary tradition that’s apparent during the holiday season. From roast suckling pig to sweet turron, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this festive time of year. Whether you’re visiting Madrid or celebrating Christmas at home, be sure to try some of these traditional dishes to truly experience the flavors of the city.