Gazpacho is a Spanish soup, served cold, that originates from the Spain’s Southern region of Andalucía. It is consumed widely throughout Spain and Portugal, along with many Latin American countries. It is essentially a liquid salad that can be served slightly chilled, but not ice cold, either with pieces of vegetable, or more commonly, pureed until smooth.

The Tortilla Española, also known as tortilla de patatas, or Spanish omelette is an egg omelette combined with fried potatoes. It can also include onion and garlic depending on regional, or indeed personal, taste. The word ‘tortilla’ is derived from the Spanish word ‘torta’ which means round cake, and indeed the tortilla does resemble a round potato cake.

Although a strong Spanish tradition, almost as well known as bullfighting and flamenco dancing, the act of ‘Matanza’ is a tradition that is slowly dying out in Spain, particularly in less rural areas. However, deep in the heart of Andalucía, many families continue to perform the annual humane pig slaughter, quite simply because it remains the most natural and economical way to ensure a plentiful supply of meat throughout the year.