Foods to Eat in Spain - Madrid

- Callos a la Madrileña -

Despite its fiery colour, it is not very spicy (if at all!)

Callos a la Madrileña is yet another popular dish in Madrid due to it's affordable and humble origins. This stews' main ingredient is beef tripe (which is inexpensive as it is parts of the cow that would normally be thrown away) and seasoned well with paprika, tomato's and garlic which gives it a inviting red colour.

This dish originated in the 15th century and was only in the past 100-200 years that it was no longer considered a 'poor-man's food' and is instead eaten by the rich and poor alike. This, along with Cocido madrileño are the two famous stew's of Madrid. However, Callos a la Madrileña perhaps has even humbler origins than Cocido madrileño.

Yet another unassuming doorway

You will no doubt have no problem finding this stew in Madrid as it is served in most tapas bars and restaurants, however, my place of recommendation is Casa Revuelta. This restaurant is located near Plaza Major and is just round the corner from the well known Restaurante Sobrino de Botín. Casa Revuelta was founded in 1966 and since then has been a well frequented tapas bar for both locals and tourists alike (and as I say, follow the locals, they know what's good). They serve a mouth watering Callos a la Madrileña with a flavoursome broth and lovely chunks of tender tripe that pairs perfectly with some oven baked bread, however, I find that sometimes the broth can be a little too oily, especially if trying many different tapas in one sitting.

Fish without the Chips!

As well as Callos a la Madrileña, Casa Revuelta is also known for their Bacalao (Fried Cod) and is probably their most popular menu item so while you're there, don't forget to try that also!

Another place to try Callos a la Madrileña would be the ever popular Mercado de San Miguel, where you can probably try most of the traditional madrilenian foods mentioned in my posts. However, do be prepared to pay a little more as it is a little more 'touristy' than other places I recommend.