Zaragoza

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Street Food

Sections

Popular Street Food Dishes in Zaragoza

  1. Ternasco de Aragón (Lamb)

    • What it is: Ternasco is a young lamb, a specialty of the Aragon region. While traditionally served in restaurants, you can find it in street food form as lamb skewers or sandwiches (bocadillos de ternasco) at food markets or festivals.
    • Ingredients: Grilled or roasted lamb, often seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and herbs.
    • Typical Cost: €4–€8 for a sandwich or skewer.
    • Where to Find It: Look for food stalls at local markets like Mercado Central de Zaragoza or during festivals such as the Fiestas del Pilar in October.

  2. Migas Aragonesas

    • What it is: A traditional dish made from leftover bread crumbs fried with garlic, olive oil, and often mixed with chorizo, bacon, or fried eggs. It’s a hearty and flavorful snack.
    • Ingredients: Bread crumbs, garlic, olive oil, chorizo, bacon, and sometimes grapes for a sweet contrast.
    • Typical Cost: €3–€6 per portion.
    • Where to Find It: Street vendors during festivals or at food markets. Some tapas bars also serve it in small portions.

  3. Churros con Chocolate

    • What it is: A classic Spanish treat, churros are deep-fried dough sticks, often dusted with sugar and served with a thick, rich chocolate dipping sauce.
    • Ingredients: Flour, water, sugar, and chocolate.
    • Typical Cost: €3–€5 for a portion of churros with chocolate.
    • Where to Find It: Churrerías (churro stands) like Churrería La Fama, located near Plaza del Pilar, or pop-up stalls during festivals.

  4. Empanadillas

    • What it is: Small, savory pastries filled with ingredients like tuna, tomato, and boiled egg or minced meat. These are a quick and portable snack.
    • Ingredients: Pastry dough, tuna, tomato, egg, or meat.
    • Typical Cost: €2–€4 each.
    • Where to Find It: Bakeries and food stalls in markets like Mercado San Vicente de Paúl.

  5. Bocadillos (Sandwiches)

    • What it is: Zaragoza is known for its variety of bocadillos, which are sandwiches made with crusty bread and filled with local ingredients like jamón serrano (cured ham), chorizo, or tortilla de patatas (Spanish omelet).
    • Ingredients: Bread, cured meats, cheese, or omelet.
    • Typical Cost: €3–€6.
    • Where to Find It: Cafés, food trucks, and market stalls.

  6. Croquetas

    • What it is: Fried croquettes filled with béchamel sauce and ingredients like ham, chicken, or mushrooms. These are a popular snack or tapa.
    • Ingredients: Béchamel sauce, ham or other fillings, breadcrumbs.
    • Typical Cost: €1–€2 per croqueta.
    • Where to Find It: Tapas bars and food stalls.

  7. Longaniza de Aragón

    • What it is: A type of cured sausage from the region, often served grilled or in sandwiches.
    • Ingredients: Pork, garlic, and spices.
    • Typical Cost: €3–€5 for a portion or sandwich.
    • Where to Find It: Local markets, food trucks, or during festivals.

Where to Find Street Food in Zaragoza

  1. Mercado Central de Zaragoza

    • A historic market located in the city center, offering a mix of fresh produce, local specialties, and prepared foods. Some stalls serve ready-to-eat snacks like empanadillas, bocadillos, and croquetas.

  2. Plaza del Pilar

    • The heart of Zaragoza, this area often hosts food stalls during festivals and events. It’s a great spot to try churros, migas, and other local treats.

  3. Fiestas del Pilar (October)

    • Zaragoza’s biggest annual festival, held in honor of the Virgin of Pilar. During this time, the city is filled with food stalls offering traditional Aragonese dishes, churros, and more.

  4. Food Trucks and Pop-Up Stalls

    • Zaragoza has a growing food truck scene, especially during events and weekends. These trucks often serve modern takes on traditional dishes, as well as international street food.

  5. Tapas Bars

    • While not strictly street food, tapas bars in Zaragoza often serve small, affordable portions of local dishes. Head to El Tubo, a maze of narrow streets in the city center, for some of the best tapas experiences.

Cultural and Practical Tips for Enjoying Street Food in Zaragoza

  1. Timing Matters:

    • Spaniards typically eat lunch between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM and dinner after 8:30 PM. Street food stalls may not operate all day, so plan accordingly.

  2. Festivals Are Key:

    • Zaragoza’s street food scene is most vibrant during festivals like Fiestas del Pilar or Christmas markets. These events are the best times to sample a wide variety of local dishes.

  3. Cash is King:

    • While many places accept cards, smaller vendors and street food stalls often prefer cash. Carry small denominations to make transactions easier.

  4. Eat Like a Local:

    • Don’t rush! Spaniards enjoy their food slowly and socially. If you’re at a market or festival, find a spot to sit or stand and savor your meal.

  5. Ask for Recommendations:

    • Locals are friendly and proud of their cuisine. Don’t hesitate to ask vendors or fellow diners for their favorite dishes or stalls.

  6. Be Mindful of Siesta Hours:

    • Some markets and stalls may close during the afternoon siesta (around 2:00 PM–5:00 PM), so plan your visit accordingly.

  7. Sustainability:

    • Zaragoza is increasingly eco-conscious. Look for vendors using biodegradable packaging, and dispose of waste in designated bins.

Conclusion

Zaragoza’s street food scene may not be as extensive as in larger cities, but it offers a delightful way to experience the region’s rich culinary traditions. From hearty migas to sweet churros, there’s something for every palate. By exploring markets, festivals, and local hotspots, you’ll not only enjoy delicious food but also immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this historic city. Bon appétit—or as they say in Spain, ¡Buen provecho!