Top Spanish Supermarket Snacks You Need To Try

Hey guys! Ever wondered what delicious and authentic snacks you can find while wandering the aisles of a Spanish supermarket? Well, you're in for a treat! Spain is a country known for its rich culinary heritage, and that extends far beyond the tapas bars and fancy restaurants. Spanish supermarkets are treasure troves filled with unique and tasty treats that you absolutely need to try. Let's dive into some of the best Spanish supermarket snacks that will transport your taste buds straight to Spain.

Exploring the Aisle of Spanish Snacks

When you first step into a Spanish supermarket, the sheer variety of snacks can be overwhelming. From savory to sweet, there's something for everyone. But don't worry, I'm here to guide you through the maze of options so you can make the best choices. We'll be covering everything from classic potato chips to regional sweets, ensuring you get a comprehensive taste of Spain. So, grab your shopping basket and let's get started!

Potato Chips: A Spanish Staple

Potato chips, or patatas fritas, are a universal snack, but Spain puts its own spin on them. You'll find a wide range of flavors and textures that go beyond the standard salted or BBQ. One of the most popular brands is Bonilla a la Vista, known for their incredibly thin and crispy chips packaged in a distinctive blue tin. These chips are lightly salted, allowing the natural flavor of the potato to shine through. They're perfect for enjoying on their own or pairing with a cold beer.

Another brand to look out for is Lay's Mediterráneas, which offers flavors inspired by Spanish cuisine, such as olive oil and sea salt. These chips have a slightly thicker cut and a satisfying crunch. For those who like a bit of heat, try the spicy paprika flavored chips, which offer a smoky and slightly spicy kick. The quality of Spanish potato chips often comes from the use of high-quality olive oil and locally sourced potatoes, making them a cut above the rest. Whether you're lounging by the beach or relaxing at home, a bag of Spanish potato chips is a must-have snack.

Olives: More Than Just a Garnish

Olives are a staple in Spanish cuisine, and you'll find an impressive selection in any Spanish supermarket. From Manzanilla to Gordal, each variety offers a unique flavor and texture. Manzanilla olives are small and green, with a mild, slightly nutty flavor, while Gordal olives are larger and meatier, with a more intense taste. You can find them stuffed with pimientos (peppers), anchovies, or even almonds.

Spanish olives are typically cured in brine, which gives them a salty and slightly tangy flavor. They're perfect as a snack on their own or as part of a tapas platter. Look for brands like La Española or Fragata, which offer a wide range of olives in different preparations. If you're feeling adventurous, try the aceitunas aliñadas, which are marinated olives with herbs, garlic, and spices. These olives are bursting with flavor and are a delicious way to experience the authentic taste of Spain. Whether you prefer them pitted or with the stone, green or black, olives are a versatile and healthy snack option.

Chorizo and Salchichón: Cured Meats

No trip to a Spanish supermarket is complete without indulging in some cured meats. Chorizo and salchichón are two of the most popular options, and they're perfect for snacking. Chorizo is a pork sausage seasoned with paprika, which gives it a distinctive red color and smoky flavor. Salchichón is similar but typically seasoned with black pepper and other spices. You can find them in various forms, from thin slices to whole sausages.

Look for brands like Campofrío or Navidul, which offer high-quality chorizo and salchichón. These cured meats are perfect for enjoying on their own, with some bread, or as part of a charcuterie board. The intense flavor and slightly firm texture make them incredibly satisfying. If you're feeling adventurous, try the chorizo picante, which is a spicy version of chorizo. It adds a fiery kick to any snack. Cured meats are a quintessential part of Spanish cuisine, and they're a delicious way to experience the country's culinary heritage.

Turrón: A Sweet Treat

For those with a sweet tooth, turrón is a must-try. This traditional Spanish confection is made from almonds, honey, sugar, and egg whites. It's especially popular during the Christmas season, but you can find it in supermarkets year-round. There are two main types of turrón: Turrón de Alicante, which is hard and crunchy, and Turrón de Jijona, which is soft and chewy.

Turrón de Alicante is made with whole almonds and has a brittle texture, while Turrón de Jijona is made with ground almonds and has a smoother, more nougat-like consistency. Both are incredibly delicious and offer a unique taste of Spain. Look for brands like El Almendro or Delaviuda, which are known for their high-quality turrón. It's perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or as a sweet treat after a meal. Turrón is a true taste of Spanish tradition and a delightful way to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Manchego Cheese: A Cheese Lover's Dream

Manchego cheese is one of Spain's most famous cheeses, and it's a must-try for any cheese lover. Made from sheep's milk in the La Mancha region, it has a distinctive flavor that is both rich and slightly tangy. The cheese is aged for varying lengths of time, which affects its texture and flavor. Young Manchego is soft and creamy, while aged Manchego is firm and crumbly, with a more intense flavor.

You can find Manchego cheese in most Spanish supermarkets, either as a whole wedge or pre-sliced. It's perfect for enjoying on its own, with some bread, or as part of a cheese board. The nutty flavor and slightly salty taste make it incredibly addictive. Look for the D.O.P. (Denominación de Origen Protegida) label, which guarantees that the cheese is authentic and made in the La Mancha region. Manchego cheese is a true taste of Spain and a delicious way to experience the country's culinary heritage.

Picos and Rosquillas: Bread Snacks

Picos and Rosquillas are traditional Spanish bread snacks that are perfect for enjoying with cheese, ham, or dips. Picos are small, crunchy breadsticks that are similar to Italian grissini. They're typically made with wheat flour, water, and salt, and are baked until golden brown and crispy. Rosquillas are small, ring-shaped bread snacks that are often flavored with anise or olive oil.

You can find picos and rosquillas in most Spanish supermarkets, often near the bread or cracker section. They're perfect for snacking on their own or for dipping into sauces and spreads. The crunchy texture and slightly savory flavor make them incredibly satisfying. Look for brands like Anitin or Reglero, which offer a wide range of picos and rosquillas. These bread snacks are a simple but delicious way to experience the flavors of Spain.

Gazpacho: A Refreshing Soup

While technically a soup, gazpacho is often enjoyed as a refreshing snack or light meal in Spain, especially during the hot summer months. It's a cold soup made from blended tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, garlic, and olive oil. The soup is typically served chilled and is a delicious way to cool down on a hot day.

You can find pre-made gazpacho in most Spanish supermarkets, often in the refrigerated section. It's a convenient and healthy snack option that is packed with vitamins and nutrients. Look for brands like Alvalle or Don Simon, which offer high-quality gazpacho. The tangy flavor and smooth texture make it incredibly refreshing. Gazpacho is a true taste of Spain and a delicious way to stay cool and hydrated.

Magdalenas: Spanish Muffins

Magdalenas are Spanish muffins that are similar to madeleines. They're made with flour, sugar, eggs, and olive oil, and are often flavored with lemon or vanilla. Magdalenas are typically baked in small, shell-shaped molds, which gives them a distinctive appearance.

You can find magdalenas in most Spanish supermarkets, often in the bakery section. They're perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or as a sweet treat. The light and fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor make them incredibly addictive. Look for brands like La Bella Easo or Martinez, which offer a wide range of magdalenas. These Spanish muffins are a delightful way to start your day or satisfy your sweet cravings.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – a guide to some of the best Spanish supermarket snacks you need to try! From savory to sweet, there's something for everyone. Exploring the snack aisles of a Spanish supermarket is a fun and delicious way to experience the country's culinary heritage. So next time you're in Spain, be sure to grab a few of these treats and enjoy the authentic taste of Spain. ¡Buen provecho!