Spain's wide range of geographical and climatic features have had strong influences on the food and cooking of this country. Spain was also, for centuries, several distinct kingdoms, with their own rulers, economic and social traditions, languages and cultural influences. The country was also the arena of several great invasions like those of the Romans, Phoenicians and the Moors. Additionally, there are the influences of neighboring countries like France, Germany and Western Europe, apart from Algeria and North Africa, all of which make for a wonderfully diverse culinary mix!

Spanish food and cuisine are characterized by their emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, rich cultural traditions, historical roots and simple, uncomplicated cooking methods. With distinct and strongly demarcated regional differences, there has been an unbroken tradition of preparing local specialties in the same way that they were first made centuries ago. In Spain, they take their food very seriously!

Some typical Spanish ingredients are olive oil, garlic, fresh and cured meats and seafood, unique cheeses, beans and pulses, rice, plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, herbs and spices. Cooking methods are relatively uncomplicated and focus more on quick, convenient and timely preparation. There is a greater emphasis on boiling, grilling, frying, roasting and stewing rather than baking and broiling.

The great cuisines of Spain can be differentiated by the regional flavors:

Northern Spanish cuisine: Dishes and foods found in this area, viz. The Asturias and Galicia, on the Atlantic Ocean are known for their use of fresh seafood and spicy sauces. Dairy products, cheeses and plenty of fresh vegetables are the hallmark of Basque cooking. Cold-meats, preserves, soups, stews and fish dishes and pies are other specialties.

Central (Castile-Leon): Here the cuisine includes sophisticated baked goods like buns and cakes. This is saffron country, so you'll find a good helping of this exotic spice in all your food. Fried, roasted and baked meats and spiced drinks are famous here.

Southern: Andalusian food is famous for its wonderful cheeses and grilled seafood and meats. Sherry is used extensively in cooking and this is the birth-place of the world-famous tapas! The desserts and sweets here show their strong Arab roots.

Pyrenees or Eastern: This mountainous region is known for its fresh vegetables like peppers, tomatoes and onions which are the staple in most dishes here. The birth-place of paella, Eastern Spain is reputed to have the healthiest diet in the country. The famous Catalonia sausages, Mato cheeses and Romanesco sauces and a variety of sweets and desserts are the specialties of this region.

For a truly diverse culinary experience, it's a great idea to undertake a foodies' tour of Spain and sample the local delights along with their fine local wines.

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