A whisk through the aromatic streets of Barcelona, where street foods burst with life, flavour, and a hint of quirky Catalonian charm.
Big fan of street delicacies? Oh, you are in for a treat! In the global gastronomical scene, the snacks of Barcelona have a special place of reverence, why because of the beautiful fusion of Mediterranean and Spanish dishes that birthed a range of sensuous flavours. The streets are spilling with food trucks and cafes charming with their rendition of the vibrant snacks, a continuation of their cultural legacy. Bravas, entrepas, croquetas, and tortillas are some renowned delicacies and so are the lesser-known toasts and omelettes. Here are six wildly popular and delicious veggie bites that’ll have you dreaming of sun-soaked terraces and lively tapas bars.
Oh to bite into the crispy, golden cubes of fried potatoes, crunchy on the outside yet soft and fluffy inside! Wholesome. Potato bravas are typically bathed in a spicy, tangy, garlicky sauce that packs a fiery punch (hence the name “bravas” or “brave potatoes”). Some places serve them with a rich aioli sauce for a creamy, garlicky finish. The secret to their flavour lies in the perfect balance of paprika, garlic, and cayenne pepper. The aroma is tantalizing—a waft of sizzling olive oil and a hint of spice that tickles your nose. You’ll find these in every corner of the city, from trendy bars to cosy tapas joints, adored by locals and tourists alike.
A rainbow of roasted veggies makes Escalivada a local darling! This traditional Catalan dish is made of smoky grilled eggplant, red peppers, onions, and tomatoes, all beautifully charred and softened to perfection. Drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, you will find each morsel tender, earthy, and slightly tangy. The veggies are usually served on bread or as a side dish. The smoky aroma of roasted peppers mingles with the sweetness of caramelised onions and gives off a rustic, homey vibe. Escalivada is the quiet hero of Catalan cuisine—simple yet satiating.
In essence, pa amb tomàquet is toasted bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes, drizzled with a generous amount of olive oil, and sprinkled with salt. The bread is often crusty and toasted, giving you that satisfying crunch, while the juicy tomatoes seep into the crevices of the bread, making it a delightful mix of textures. To taste it for the first time, the smell will remind you of fresh summer tomatoes and warm bread, and taste of the Mediterranean sun. This snack is too ubiquitous in Catalonia and is a must with almost every meal.
Tiny green peppers that are sautéed until blistered and wrinkly, then sprinkled with coarse sea salt. Most are mild and sweet, but every now and then you’ll bite into one that’s fiery hot—it's a bit of a peppery lottery! The texture is soft, almost buttery, with a satisfying pop when you bite into the skin. The mild and slightly smoky taste is heightened by the unpredictable zing of heat. The aroma of roasted peppers filling the air makes it an exotic snack. It is served as a tapas dish, a staple in bars and restaurants.
Creamy, golden orbs of snacks, these are filled with a rich, béchamel sauce and mixed with finely chopped mushrooms. Croquettes has a notorious reputation for being the best tapas in the land. The amalgamation of texture is too indulging. The exterior is crispy and golden, while the inside is silky and velvety with a tinge of earthy mushrooms that lend a deep, umami richness and are served hot!
