5 authentic dishes that will introduce you to Spanish cuisine
Chef Juan Ignacio Garcia Racionero of LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar invites you to try his favourites
The holidays are over, but it doesn’t mean we should stop feasting.
Let’s start the month with Spanish cuisine. Why? One, because I haven’t had it in a while. Two, because I have Juan Ignacio Garcia Racionero, the Spanish chef de cuisine of LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar at INNSiDE by Melia Bangkok Sukhumvit, here – and he’s about to give us ideas on what dishes to get for a satisfying Spanish meal.
He’s a good person to ask, as the restaurant was recently awarded a “Restaurants From Spain” certification by the Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (ICEX) for “promoting authentic Spanish gastronomy”.
What is authentic Spanish cuisine, anyway?
“For me, authentic Spanish cuisine is about using fresh, seasonal ingredients, respecting traditional recipes, and bringing out the natural flavours of each ingredient,” he answers.
“It’s also important to use classic techniques like sofrito and share the dishes with family and friends.”
That sounds doable – especially when he starts listing his favourite Spanish dishes, so we’d know what to order (or make, if you have the time).
Chef Racionero’s favourite Spanish dishes
#1 Cocido madrileño
“Cocido madrileño is a traditional stew with chickpeas, meat and vegetables – perfect for cold days and for sharing,” he describes.
“When preparing it, it’s important to respect the cooking times so the flavours blend well, and to cook it with love and patience.”
#2 Callos a la madrileña
“Callos a la madrileña is a hearty and flavourful dish made with beef tripe, chorizo and blood sausage – ideal for those who love strong flavours.
“The key is to select fresh ingredients and to cook them slowly to achieve a tender texture and rich flavour.”
#3 Paella valenciana
“Paella valenciana is an iconic dish made with rice, meat or seafood, and vegetables, representing the essence of Spanish cuisine,” he explains.
“It requires sensitivity to respect the cooking time of the rice and not overdo the ingredients, preserving the essence of the dish.”
He adds: “These are not only delicious, but also showcase the diversity and richness of traditional Spanish cooking, making them dishes I return to over and over.”
CHEF’S TIP:
“In a restaurant, I always recommend asking if they use fresh ingredients and follow the traditional recipe.”
More Spanish dishes to make it a feast
#4 Cochinillo asado, and
#5 Lamb
“When I think of an authentic Spanish feast, I’d recommend dishes like roasted suckling pig (cochinillo asado) and lamb, two classic options that showcase Spain’s culinary traditions,” says Chef Racionero.
“These dishes are often served with simple sides like vegetables and potatoes, emphasising the natural flavours of the ingredients. Although they seem simple, their preparation requires specific techniques, such as using a wood-fired oven, which give them a unique and authentic taste.”
Must-visit for cochinillo asado:
“If you’re visiting Spain, one place I’d highly recommend is Casa Cándido in Segovia, famous for its cochinillo asado,” he continues.
“This restaurant not only offers delicious food, but also provides a historical experience that honours culinary traditions preserved for generations. Dining here is like travelling back in time and enjoying the true essence of Spanish cuisine.”
Ready to find all of the above in a Spanish restaurant or menu near you?
Quick questions with Chef Racionero
Favourite ingredient in Spanish cuisine
“Paprika de la Vera and saffron are key ingredients in Spanish cuisine, and are used in a wide variety of traditional dishes.”
Best vacation in Spain
“It’s difficult to choose a place in Spain for a holiday. We have cities like Barcelona and Seville, although I’d choose Madrid because it’s a city full of culture, art and leisure. It has renowned museums such as the Prado and the Reina Sofia, the imposing Royal Palace, and the Retiro Park to relax in. Plus, its vibrant atmosphere and excellent gastronomy mean there’s always something to do. It’s perfect if you’re looking for history, art and a wide range of leisure activities!”
Underrated (or often overlooked) Spanish dish
“One of the most underrated Spanish dishes might be cocido madrileño. It’s one of those dishes that, although it’s a real treasure of Spanish cuisine, sometimes does not receive all the attention it deserves outside Madrid. This traditional stew, made with chickpeas, meats (such as chicken, pork and beef), chorizo, black pudding and vegetables is a hearty, tasty and comforting meal.”
Favourite drink to go with Spanish cuisine
“One of the best drinks to accompany Spanish food is wine. Depending on the dish, you can choose red, white or rosé wine.”
Tip for dining on Spanish cuisine solo
“If you’re going to dine on Spanish cuisine alone, I’d recommend opting for tapas or small portions. This way you can try several dishes without it being too much. Here are some suggestions: potato omelette, croquettes, Russian salad, tortilla skewers or montaditos, or padrón peppers. Accompany it with a glass of wine or beer if you like something more refreshing. And if you prefer something sweet to finish, some churros with chocolate can be a perfect ending.”
Easiest Spanish dish to cook when you’re too lazy or tired
“Fried eggs are the easiest and quickest option when you’re tired or low on energy.”
Best Spanish breakfast
“The best Spanish breakfast depends a bit on the region, but there are a couple of classics that always stand out: toast with tomato, olive oil and ham, churros with chocolate, or coffee with milk and croissant or Neapolitan.”
Favourite late-night Spanish snack
“If you’re looking for something more substantial and at the same time typical, a fried squid sandwich is ideal. It’s something you can find in many taverns and bars at any time of the day, and it’s also perfect for the evening!”
What you prepared and ate for the recent Christmas and New Year
“For Christmas: roast lamb, seafood and Christmas sweets (nougat, polvorones and mantecados). For New Year’s Eve: Seafood soup, roast suckling pig, 12 grapes and Christmas sweets.”
Favourite Spanish celebration (and what you like to eat during)
“Holy Week is another of the great celebrations that’s experienced throughout Spain, and especially intensely in many cities! Although Holy Week is celebrated throughout Spain, it has a special relevance in certain regions, where processions and religious traditions are very impactful. Holy Week is also a gastronomic festival. In many regions, typical dishes are enjoyed such as French toast, stew or cod.”
Best month to spend in Spain
“The best month to visit Spain depends on what you’re looking for, as the weather varies quite a bit from region to region. Here are some recommendations depending on what you want to enjoy: May, September or April.”
Favourite Spanish tradition
“One of the most beloved traditions by Spaniards is Holy Week, although Las Fallas in Valencia, the San Fermin in Pamplona, the April Fair in Seville, as well as visiting the magnificent beaches we have also stand out.”
Favourite things to do in Bangkok
“In Bangkok, there are many activities and places that I like, because there’s a mixture of culture, gastronomy and entertainment. My favorite thing to do in Bangkok is to enjoy Thai cuisine, either with street food or with its food markets, in addition to visiting the most important temples.”