Foods to Eat in Spain - Madrid

- Cocido Madrileño -

Cocido Madrileño is a hearty Madrilenian stew made using chickpeas, various vegetables (commonly potatoes), meats (traditionally pork) and garbanzo beans. The origins of this dish dates back to the 12th century and originally did not contain pork due to it's Jewish influence and were only added  in the 15th century. The dish grew in popularity in the 19th and 20th century as chickpeas were readily available, cheap and filling.

What is special about this stew is that instead of ladling it into bowls like you would with most stews, it is instead served as two 'courses'. The first of which is just the stew broth (sometimes with added noodles) served as a soup. The second course consists of the various meats and vegetables. This dish is a household staple, especially in winter and is a definite comfort food for most Madrileños.

Now, there are two places I would recommend you to try this comforting stew in Madrid. One is the the more authentic and traditional restaurant, Taberna La Bola, located just a few minutes walk from the Palacio Real de Madrid and the Teatro Real. The Cocido Madrileño served here is still cooked traditionally in earthenware pots over a wood burning fire and together with the rustic settings, provides a unique experience. A serving of Cocido Madrileño will cost you €19.50 which does bring me to one of the few negatives of this restaurant. Sometimes, it feels as though they are relying more on the historical pedigree of the restaurant rather than what they provide presently. Nonetheless, while they are a little more expensive, they are still worth a visit, even just to soak in the atmosphere and history.

Easy To Overlook...

The other recommended restaurant would be Malacatín, located in the Barrio de La Latina and dates back to 1895. Once you step past the unassuming small doorway, you are hit by the aroma of the Cocido Madrileño cooking merrily on the ovens which perhaps isn't surprising as their menu is focused on and revolves around the 15 or so variations of this stew, each costing €19.50. In my opinion, Malacatín has the better quality and tasting Cocido Madrileño whereas Taberna la Bola is steeped in history and the overall decor provides a unique atmosphere.