Navarra

Because of its proximity to France, Navarra has become a must visit area for gourmets the world over. Pamplona is the most famous city in this often bypassed region of Spain. But there is so much more to Navarra than a bull run.

The trout here is terrific. The vegetables among the best in Spain. The asparagus grown in Navarra is sought after by chefs from all over Spain. Then there are the small, red hot peppers (piminetos del piquillo). Grilled, these peppers set the tastebuds alight. They are not cheap but they are, when combined with fish, seafood or mushrooms; worth every penny. 

Artichokes with Clams (Alcachofas con Almejas) is a popular dish in Navarra, and it is an easy one to make yourself. At fiesta time in Pamplona it is, of course, beef that is served in so many meals. Estofado de Cane de Toro (Braised steer) is a famous local dish. Duck, a meat not served in many Spanish regions, is a speciality here. Ducks are bred all over Navarra. One of the regular meals served up is Duck with Peaches (Pato con Melecotones).

Navarra is also home to the production of the very distinctive cheese, Roncal. It is produced from raw unpasteurized milk. Each summer the regional producers of Roncal gather to display thick ewe's milk curds known as cuajada or gaztanbera. This product continues to be made by hand on many a farm in a region which is rightly proud of the qaulity of food it produces. Year in, year out.

Duck Farming and Foie Gras

Eduardo Sousa on his farm
Out for a Duck

Duck farming is big business in the Navarra region of Spain. But the farming of duck, geese and even free range chicken has taken flight and can now be found cross much of northern and western Spain.

For many years wild duck has enjoyed a good reputation and been sought after.
In flight their last sight has been of the Pyrenees before ending up in a pot or oven in Navarra. The domestic duck, however, has been a rare sight.

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Knowing Navarra

Piquillo Peppers
Big Apple tastes Navarra

When people discuss Spanish food you rarely hear them talking about the cuisine of Navarra, an area of Spain within touching distance of France.

But the word is spreading. Indeed, there is an argument for saying that the food of Navarra is more famous outside of Spain than within the country.

An example of that was seen in the ‘Big Apple’ earlier this year when a week long festival in New York celebrated the food of Navarra.

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Partridge in Chocolate

The Partridge Family

I shall be writing shortly about the overlooked region of Navarra. It is not the first name on the lips of people discussing the cuisine of Spain. That's a pity.

The area offers so much quality food along with some ingredients that are a must for so many recipes.

Navarra is famous for its farming of ducks and also for being an area where hunting is big business and game is eaten regularly in the home and also in some superb restaurants throughout the region.

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How to choose and cook Asparagus

Asparagus
Asparagus is good for you

It was the ancient Egyptians who called asparagus the "food of the gods."

The Romans served it as the first of many courses. When combined with egg and pepper it was, so the Romans claimed, an aphrodisiac. And what they didn't know about amorous appetisers you could fit on the back of a postage stamp.

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Sweet Nuns

Nuns in the Sun
Nuns in the sun cook up a treat

There is a favourite wine bar of mine in the city of Granada that serves great food.

But when it comes to finishing off with a sweet, I walk out of the bar and straight to the Carmelite convent that is opposite.
It is here that nuns sell sweets like none other I have tasted.

You have to knock on a discreet little door and then place your order from a tempting selection of goodies.

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Navarra style Trout with Ham

Out for Trout

I have written previously about the trout farmed in southern Spain. Now it is time to savour a dish that traditional hails from Navarra, though it can be found on menus as far south as Andalucia. Trout with Serrano ham, although you could use bacon or parma ham if you prefer.

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Trout Stuffed with Ham

Trout stuffed with Ham
Catch some Trout

So now you know a little more about trout in Spain, it is time to savour the taste. There are many things you can do with a trout. This dish was a favourite of writer Ernest Hemmingway. He travelled Spain extensively and he enjoyed this one during his days in Navarra.

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Vegetable Stew

Vegetable Stew
Spanish Stews

In all but the high temperatures of summer, I love eating Spanish stews. Full of fresh vegetables, potatoes and/or meat. Stews are something of a speciality in Spain. The ingredients may vary, but the restorative powers of a good Spanish stew are undoubted. Here's a recipe from Navarra. Use generous portions of vegetables.

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Roncal cheese

Roncal Cheese
Choosing Cheese

The choice of cheese throughout Spain is mind boggling. So much on offer from all four corners of the country. The choice as to which to buy is a real head scratcher. The most famous cheese from the mountains of Navarra is called Roncal. A quality cheese with a rich history.

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