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Eat Like a Local: The Essential Tapas & local cuisine for Erasmus Students in Gijón
- Gijón, Asturias
- 05/18/2024
Moving to Gijón for your Erasmus adventure? Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the city’s incredible cuisine! This guide goes beyond tapas, introducing you to essential Gijón dishes and delectable small plates, all perfect for sharing with friends. Discover the flavors that will make your Erasmus experience unforgettable!
Seafood Sensations:
Chipirones a la plancha: These are small, whole grilled squid cooked to juicy perfection. A squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of sea salt are all you need to savor the ocean’s bounty.
Gambas al ajillo: Succulent shrimp sizzling in a garlicky olive oil sauce – a classic tapa that pairs perfectly with a cold glass of local cider.
Nécoras cocidas: Freshly cooked spider crabs are a local delicacy. Crack open the shell and dip the meat in a simple vinaigrette or enjoy it “al natural.”
Asturian All-Stars:
Cachopo: This iconic dish features a giant, breaded and fried veal schnitzel filled with melted cheese and jamón serrano (cured ham). It’s big enough to share (or maybe not!), and a true representation of Asturian comfort food.
Cabrales cheese: For the adventurous eaters, Cabrales cheese is a strong, pungent blue cheese from the Picos de Europa mountains. Pair it with some membrillo (quince paste) for a sweet and savory contrast.
Chorizo a la sidra: Spicy chorizo sausage simmered in local Asturian cider until tender and bursting with flavor. A staple tapa that goes down well with a cool Asturian cider.
Fabada: This hearty bean stew is a true Asturian classic. Made with white beans, pork, chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage), and saffron, it’s a must-try for any visitor to Gijón.
Vegetarian Delights:
Pimientos de Padrón: These small green peppers are blistered in olive oil. While most are mild, a few pack a spicy punch! A fun and social tapa, perfect for sharing with friends.
Tortilla de patata: The Spanish potato omelet is a national treasure. Simple yet satisfying, it’s made with eggs, potatoes, and sometimes onions, all cooked in olive oil.
Croquetas: Crispy fried croquettes come in endless variations, from creamy béchamel with jamón to spinach and ricotta. Ask your local bar what they have on offer!
Beyond the Bites:
Sidra: This slightly sparkling apple cider is a must-try Asturian beverage. Traditionally poured from a height to enhance its flavor, it’s a refreshing accompaniment to any tapa or dish.
Pan: Asturian bread is crusty and perfect for mopping up delicious sauces and leftover bits from your meal.
Student-Friendly Tips:
Sharing is caring: Order a variety of tapas and dishes with your friends to experience the full range of flavors.
Pinchos: Look for bars with “pinchos,” which are tapas displayed on a bar skewered with a toothpick. Each toothpick usually has a set price.
Cider etiquette: When ordering cider, be prepared to catch it in your glass as it’s poured from a height. It’s all part of the fun!
Living and Learning in Gijón:
As an Erasmus student, you’ll likely be living in a shared apartment. This is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and make new friends. Rentals Gijón offers comfortable and affordable rooms in shared apartments, perfectly situated for exploring Gijón’s vibrant student life and diverse culinary scene.
So grab your friends, embark on a delicious adventure, and experience the unique flavors of Gijón! Buen provecho (enjoy your meal)!
Rentals Gijón Team