Barcelona is a city that is known for its rich culture, amazing architecture, and delectable cuisine. When it comes to food, Barcelona has a lot to offer, from tapas to paella. However, if you are looking for the main dish in Barcelona that truly captures the essence of the city’s culinary scene, then look no further than the famous Catalan dish – Escudella i carn d’olla.
What Is Escudella i Carn d’olla?
Escudella i carn d’olla is a hearty stew that is made with various meats and vegetables. The dish originated in Catalonia and has been a staple of Catalan cuisine for centuries. The name of the dish roughly translates to “stew and pot meat” which refers to the two main components of the dish.
How Is It Made?
The traditional recipe for Escudella i carn d’olla calls for a combination of meats such as beef shank, pork belly, chicken, and sausage. Vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, onions, celery are also included in the recipe along with chickpeas and rice or noodles. The dish is slow-cooked for several hours until all the flavors meld together and create a rich broth.
The Importance of Broth
One of the key elements that sets Escudella i carn d’olla apart from other stews is its broth. The broth is made by cooking all the meats and vegetables together in water until they release their flavors into the liquid. This slow-cooking process allows all the ingredients to infuse into each other creating a complex flavor profile that cannot be replicated.
Serving Escudella i Carn d’olla
Escudella i carn d’olla is typically served in two courses. The first course consists of just broth and noodles or rice which is often served with a dollop of aioli. The second course is the stew itself, which is served with the meats and vegetables.
Conclusion
Escudella i carn d’olla is a dish that has been enjoyed by Catalans for generations. Its unique flavor profile and slow-cooked broth make it a standout dish in Barcelona’s culinary scene. If you are looking to immerse yourself in the local cuisine, then be sure to try Escudella i carn d’olla on your next trip to Barcelona.