The typical gastronomy of Madrid is made up of dishes composed mainly of fresh regional products such as vegetables or meat for spoon dishes, stews or fried foods. We must also highlight the importance of tapas in its bars, since gastronomy is one of the great attractions of Madrid. Among the many recipes or traditional food, we show you the most typical Madrid dishes that you have to try if you visit this wonderful city, both the capital and one of its towns.
Best food in Madrid
1. Madrid stew
Madrid Stew, also known as Cocido Madrileño, is a beloved dish that has been a staple in Madrid’s cuisine for centuries. It’s a hearty and flavorful stew made with chickpeas, vegetables, pork, and beef, simmered together for hours to create a rich and savory broth. The dish is typically served in three courses, starting with the broth, followed by the chickpeas and vegetables, and finally the meats. It’s a perfect comfort food, especially during the colder months, and is often enjoyed as a Sunday family meal in Madrid.
2. Madrid-style tripe
Callos a la Madrileña, or Madrid Style Tripe, is a classic dish that showcases the city’s love for offal. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish made with beef tripe, chorizo, blood sausage, and chickpeas, cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with a touch of paprika. The dish is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish that is often enjoyed with a glass of red wine. It’s a true delight for those who appreciate bold and robust flavors.
3. Fried eggs
Huevos Estrellados, or Fried Eggs, is a simple yet delicious dish that is a favorite among locals in Madrid. It’s made with fried eggs served over a bed of crispy fried potatoes, and often accompanied by cured ham or chorizo. The dish is typically drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper, creating a perfect combination of flavors and textures. It’s a popular dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and can be found in many traditional tapas bars and restaurants throughout Madrid.
4. Calamari sandwich
Bocadillo de Calamares, or Calamari Sandwich, is a classic street food that has become an iconic symbol of Madrid’s culinary culture. It’s a simple yet delicious sandwich made with crispy fried calamari rings, served on a crusty baguette and often accompanied by a dollop of mayonnaise or a squeeze of lemon juice. The combination of the tender calamari and the crunchy bread creates a mouthwatering contrast in textures, making it a popular choice for a quick and satisfying snack or meal.
5. Garlic soup
Sopa de Ajo, or Garlic Soup, is a traditional dish that originated in Madrid and is known for its simplicity and rustic flavors. It’s a hearty soup made with bread, garlic, paprika, and sometimes ham or chorizo, cooked together in a rich broth. The dish is often finished with a poached egg on top, adding a creamy richness to the soup. Sopa de Ajo is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for warming up during the colder months or for those who appreciate the bold flavors of garlic.