14 Popular Sandwiches From Spain
on Sep 19, 2023, Updated Nov 21, 2023
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Spain boasts a delightful array of sandwiches that are both delicious and diverse. From the streets of Madrid to the coastal towns of Barcelona, these sandwiches offer a taste of Spain’s rich gastronomic culture. In this post, we will explore 14 most popular Sandwiches from Spain for you to try!
Traditional Spanish Sandwiches
1. Bocadillo De Jamón
A classic Spanish sandwich made with crusty bread, slices of cured ham, and sometimes drizzled with olive oil.
2. Montadito
A bite-sized sandwich topped with various ingredients such as Spanish omelet, chorizo, or seafood.
3. Serranito
A sandwich featuring tender slices of fried pork loin, serrano ham, roasted green pepper, and garlic mayonnaise.
4. Pepito
Usually made with chicken, this sandwich includes sautéed meat, green peppers, onions, and often, a spicy sauce.
5. Bikini
A Spanish take on the grilled cheese sandwich, made with ham and cheese, toasted until it’s gooey and delicious.
6. Bocadillo De Calamares
A popular choice in Madrid, this sandwich consists of deep-fried squid rings served in a crispy baguette.
7. Flauta
A simple yet delicious sandwich filled with various ingredients, such as omelet, ham, cheese, or tortilla española.
8. Mollete
A soft bread roll filled with ingredients like ham, chorizo, or cheese, often enjoyed as a snack or for breakfast.
9. Sándwich Mixto
A straightforward sandwich with ham and cheese, usually served on white bread and toasted.
10. Pepito De Ternera
Similar to the pepito, but with tender slices of beef instead of chicken.
11. Torta Del Casar
Hailing from Extremadura, this sandwich stars the rich, creamy Torta del Casar cheese, served with jam and sometimes quince paste.
12. Catalan Bikini
A variation of the classic bikini sandwich, incorporating tomato, Iberian ham, and sometimes truffle.
13. Pimiento De Piquillo
A vegetarian option featuring roasted piquillo peppers, often served with cheese in a sandwich.
14. Sándwich De Atún
A tuna sandwich elevated with ingredients like hard-boiled eggs, olives, and mayonnaise.
Popular Spanish Sandwich Fillings
Spanish sandwiches are known for their diverse fillings, which often include:
- Regional delicacies like jamón serrano (cured ham), chorizo, and a variety of cheeses.
- Seafood, especially anchovies and squid, is also commonly featured.
- Vegetarian options often incorporate roasted vegetables, olives, and local cheeses.
Spanish Bread For Sandwiches
The choice of bread is crucial for crafting the perfect Spanish sandwich. Baguettes, often referred to as “barra de pan,” are widely used for their crisp crust and soft interior. Additionally, soft rolls like molletes are favored for their versatility and ability to hold various fillings.
Tapas And Bocadillos In Spain
In Spain, the art of sandwich-making is closely intertwined with the concept of tapas, small savory dishes usually enjoyed with drinks. Bocadillos (sandwiches) are a staple of Spanish cuisine and are often served as tapas in bars and cafés.
This tradition allows locals and tourists alike to savor a variety of flavors in bite-sized portions.
FAQs
What is a Spanish sandwich called?
In Spain, a sandwich is commonly known as a “bocadillo.” This term is used to describe a wide range of sandwiches, from simple ham and cheese varieties to more elaborate combinations.
How to make a Spanish bocadillo
Making a Spanish bocadillo is simple. Start with a fresh baguette or roll, slice it open, and fill it with your choice of ingredients. Common fillings include ham, cheese, chorizo, vegetables, and various spreads like aioli or tomato sauce.
Toasting the bocadillo is optional but can add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Spanish sandwich vs. Italian panini: What’s the difference?
While both Spanish bocadillos and Italian panini are delicious grilled sandwiches, there are some key differences. Spanish bocadillos often use a wider variety of bread, including baguettes and rolls, and can feature a broader range of fillings, including seafood and tortilla española.
Italian panini are often made with ciabatta or similar bread and often include Italian ingredients like prosciutto, mozzarella, and pesto.
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Spanish Bocadillo Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 fresh baguette or roll
- 3-4 slices of jamón serrano, cured ham
- 2 slices of manchego cheese
- 1 ripe tomato, sliced
- 2-3 leaves of fresh lettuce
- olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice the baguette or roll in half lengthwise.
- Drizzle a bit of olive oil on the bread and lightly toast it on a grill or in a pan until it’s crisp and golden.
- Layer the jamón serrano, Manchego cheese, tomato slices, and lettuce on one half of the bread.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the other half of the bread on top to create a sandwich. Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition information provided is an estimate only and will vary based on ingredient brands and cooking methods used.
