The three most popular Spanish foods in the United Kingdom

The history of Spanish food in the UK, particularly cooked meats, such as spanish ham, dates back to the early 20th century but gained significant momentum in the post-war years as travel to Spain became more accessible. British tourists fell in love with Spanish cuisine, especially its flavorful cooked meats like chorizo, jamón, and morcilla. Over the decades, the growing demand for these delicacies led to their increased availability in British supermarkets and delis. This culinary exchange was further popularised by the rise of Spanish tapas bars and restaurants in the UK, solidifying Spanish cooked meats as a staple in British food culture.

As the taste of Spanish cuisine has transformed the United Kingdom, there has been a change in British eating habits, as its rich traditions and vibrant flavours have found their way onto British dinner tables. Three Spanish beloved foods that are nowadays included in some of the most popular Spanish dishes in the UK are Spanish ham, sobrasada and Txistorra. All three products have something to offer in terms of taste of Spain, and they have become a staple for people seeking an authentic taste.

Txistorra: A Flavorful Spanish Delight

Txistorra (pronounced chis-tohr‐ra). This is a Basque-style sausage that’s fast become a favourite in the UK. If you’re not familiar with Txistorra, it’s made from finely minced pork, garlic and paprika. It’s similar to chorizo, but it’s thinner, usually shorter, and has a more intense flavour and a slightly spicy bite. It’s used in grilling and frying, and is often served with eggs, in sandwiches, or as part of a full English breakfast. Txistorra is hugely popular in the UK. If you haven’t tried it, I’d recommend it. It’s one of the many flavours of Spain that British food lovers have come to love and have found a place in everyday cooking. We’ve grown to love Txistorra at home or in restaurants!

Spanish Ham: A Taste of Tradition

Perhaps one of the most well-known Spanish foods in the UK is Spanish ham, known in Spain as jamón. Characterised by its thin-sliced delicacy, Spanish ham is often made from acorn-fed Iberian pigs and air-cured for months or even years. This allows for a buttery texture and deep, nutty taste that melts in your mouth. It’s enjoyed either as part of a charcuterie board or on its own over a glass of wine. Thanks to the increased availability on Spanish ham in British supermarkets and delis, UK residents are more likely than ever to be able to enjoy this Spanish food.

Sobrasada: The Versatile Sausage

Sobrasada is a soft, spreadable pork sausage from the Balearic Islands of Spain that’s been getting popular in the UK. It’s made from ground pork, paprika, and other spices, and is red in colour with a hint of smokiness. While normally it’s eaten cold on its own or spread on bread or crackers, there are other ways to prepare it, and it’s beloved by people who like its distinctive flavour and texture mostly when it is spread on something. It is often cut thinly and used as tapas meat, or spread on toast if you’re feeling adventurous.

With Spanish ham, sobrasada and Txistorra, the love affair is still growing and growing. Each brings a different flavour and history to the table, bringing a sliver of Spain to your dining table! 

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Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.