From Markets to Manners

What I think about Spanish food.... 

Well, I guess since my Junior summer of High School I have been learning more about Spanish food every year. To be honest, before then I kind of associated it with Mexican food, but when my foreign exchange student, Amaia, came, she quickly corrected me. She taught me how to cook some typical dishes and explained their customs.I learned not only does Spain have a very different eating schedule than the U.S., but the food they eat also varies greatly. I had no read idea what "Spanish" food was, because there are no Spanish restaurants near me, or if they are they have been greatly Americanized. 

After my trip to Madrid last summer, I had a whole different perspective on Spanish food. Amaia's mother took my friends and I around to the supermarket and market where she buys her meat, like we did in class. The first meal her mother cooked for us was amazing. Nothing like I expected. From just one day, I understood how important meals are to them. Now when I think of Spanish food, the whole meal process comes to mind, not just the food itself. Even when it was just Amaia, Amaia's friends, My friends, and I eating, we always took the time to sit and talk for a while. What surprised me the most was how they served their food. Whoever made the food would dish it out, not taking any help. And whenever anyone's glass was empty, a person sitting next to them would gladly refill it without being asked. I wish American's would integrate this into our meal times. Families would get to know each other better and actually spend time together. 

For the actual food of Spain, I tend to think about paella, ham, and fish. However, after taking this class I know some of those foods are located in only certain parts of Spain. Each region has its own Specialty, in turn making its own identity. For example, one of the foods Salamanca is known for is it's ham. Which is pretty good I might add. 

Overall, Spanish food has left a great impression on me. From the actual fresh ingredients to sitting down to eat them - it is all meant with love and care.