Now I look forward to the sobremesa time after dinner, as it has given me space not only to practice my Spanish but also to learn about Spanish culture, humor, and family. I feel very fortunate to have discovered how quickly food can connect people and serve as a universal language. It does not just satisfy the stomach, but also shows tradition.
Food in Spain is usually made with simple ingredients like eggs, vegetables, seafood, and olive oil. A lot of dishes have few steps but take a bit of time to prepare, like the croquetas and tortilla de patata that I made with my classmates. Paella is also cooked so that the rice and the included meats absorb the flavors. While meats like jamón ibérico have to be cured properly before use.
Food in Spain is very connected to its environment. In Valencia and Galicia, their coastlines provide significant areas for using seafood in almost every local dish. Extremadura has wider fields and a lot of land for farmers to have pigs that will provide meat for the city. Even in Madrid, tapas offer a way for people to relax after the city's culture and work.
Ultimately, all these regions demonstrate that ingredients and lifestyles are unique. The connection between food and its environment is very special in Spanish culture, making many dishes diverse and specific to their regions across the country.
