Go Spain!: World Cup 2010 Celebratory Dishes

This last week was a high point for Spain, who won the World Cup for the first time ever. In celebration, here’s a nice roundup of delicious Spanish recipes from around the web (and none of them have octopus):

Photo by Pablo de Loy

Croquetas de Pollo

Spanish croquetas are something I used to be afraid to make- until I actually made them, and realized that it’s simply a matter of making an extra-thick bechamel, mixing it with cheese or the meat of your choice, rolling it in breadcrumbs, and frying. This version is made with cooked chicken, and would be perfect with a side dish of aioli (garlic mayonnaise).

Spanish Paella for a Crowd

Je Mange La Ville’s paella recipe includes awesome step-by-step photos, and makes a dish worth celebrating all on its own.

Garbanzos con Espinaca

Literally, Garbanzos with Spinach. I’ve had this dish before, and was surprised by the “wow” factor brought about by such simple ingredients. We make ours with Asian spinach kang-kong, which is quite abundant (and VERY affordable) here.

Fresh Corn and Manchego Cheese Empanadas with Chimichuri

Finally, if you have a bit more time in the kitchen, why not make your own empanadas? These are filled with fresh corn and Manchego cheese- which is, imho, one of the greatest culinary contributions of Spain. The chimichuri sauce is made with parsley and cilantro.

Are you celebrating with Spanish food this week?