10 traditional Spanish recipes for the end of the year

Christmas is a time of year full of traditions, joy and, of course, culinary delights. In Spain, the celebration of Christmas and the end of the year is accompanied by a rich gastronomic tradition that reflects the cultural and regional diversity of the country. Here you have the recipe for Castilian-style roast lamb and other ideas to surprise you this Christmas.

1. Roasted Lamb Castilian Style

Castilian-Style Roasted Lamb is originally from the region of Castilla y León, this dish is a manifestation of simplicity and respect for the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Ingredients:

1 leg of lamb, approximately 2-3 kg
6 cloves garlic, finely chopped
4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
3 sprigs of fresh thyme
1 glass of dry white wine
Salt and pepper to taste
Extra virgin olive oil:

Lamb Preparation:

Wash and dry the leg of lamb. Make deep cuts in the meat to allow the flavors to penetrate.
In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will act as a kind of dry marinade.

Marinade and Rest:
Rub the garlic, salt and pepper mixture over the leg of lamb, making sure it penetrates the cuts.
Place the sprigs of rosemary and thyme in the cuts of the meat to further enhance the aroma and flavor.
Let the marinated lamb rest in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight.

Roast Lamb:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
On a baking tray, pour a splash of olive oil and place the marinated leg of lamb.
Add the glass of white wine around the meat to create steam during cooking.
Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for about 2 hours.

Golden Finish:
Remove the aluminum foil and increase the oven temperature to 220 degrees Celsius.
Let the lamb sear for about an additional 30 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden.

Rest and Serve:
Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.
Serve the roast leg of lamb on a large platter, accompanied by sprigs of rosemary and thyme.
You can use the juices from the pan as an additional sauce to drizzle over the meat.

2. Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Parsley

Grilled shrimp are a classic of Spanish cuisine, and during Christmas celebrations, they are elevated to a special level. They are grilled with garlic and parsley, which enhances their natural flavor and makes them an exquisite appetizer. This simple but elegant dish is perfect to start the festive meal.

3. Seafood Soup

Seafood soup is another popular option on the Spanish Christmas table. With ingredients such as prawns, clams and mussels, this rich and comforting soup is a dish full of flavor from the sea. It is served hot and can be a great way to start the meal on a cold winter night.

4. Turkey Stuffed with Nuts

Although turkey is a dish typically associated with the American culinary tradition during the Thanksgiving holiday, in Spain it has also been integrated into Christmas dinners. The Spanish version often includes a filling of dried fruits such as walnuts and almonds, which gives it an authentic and delicious touch.

5. Vizcaina style cod

Cod is a highly appreciated fish in Spanish cuisine, and the Biscayan-style recipe stands out for its unique flavor and elaborate sauce. The cod is cooked with a sauce based on tomato, red pepper, garlic and chilli, which gives it a spicy touch. This dish is a perfect option for those looking for an alternative to lamb or turkey at Christmas dinner.

6. Roasted Suckling Pig

Roasted suckling pig is a traditional dish in many parts of Spain. The crispy skin and tender meat make this dish a delight. It is seasoned with salt and garlic, and roasted until it acquires that characteristic golden color. It is served with garnishes such as roast potatoes or seasonal vegetables.

7. Nougat and Marzipan

Nougat and marzipan are quintessential Christmas sweets in Spain. Nougat is a block of almonds and honey, while marzipan is a sweet paste based on ground almonds and sugar. These treats are enjoyed throughout the holiday season and are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

8. Roscón de Reyes

The Roscón de Reyes is a typical dessert that is especially enjoyed during the celebration of Three Kings' Day in Spain. This ring-shaped cake is decorated with candied fruits and sugar, and inside hides surprises that add excitement to each portion. It is served with hot chocolate and is a perfect finishing touch to the Christmas season.

9. Piquillo Peppers Stuffed with Seafood

Piquillo peppers stuffed with seafood are a delicious option. They are filled with seafood mixtures such as prawns and crab, and covered with a soft bechamel sauce. This dish is not only visually appealing, but also offers an explosion of marine flavors.

10. Escudella i Carn d Olla

This recipe is originally from Catalonia, and is a traditional stew that is served during the Christmas festivities. The escudella i carn d Olla consists of two parts: the soup, known as escudella, and the meat, called carn d Olla. This soup contains a variety of sausages and vegetables, while the meat is made up of different types of cooked meat. This comforting dish reflects the richness and diversity of Catalan cuisine.

These 10 recipes represent only a small sample of Spain's culinary wealth, but they are undoubtedly delicious and festive options that will delight everyone at the Christmas table. Enjoy these delicious recipes with your loved ones and have a Merry Christmas!