Expert claims Galicia has unbeatable seafood
- Stephen Phelan explored Galicia's seafood on a recent gastronomic road trip.
- He learned traditional cooking methods and local recipes from chefs in the region.
- Phelan concluded that Galician seafood is exceptional and worth experiencing first-hand.
In Galicia, Spain, renowned for its seafood, Stephen Phelan embarked on a culinary road trip exploring the region's rich gastronomic heritage. During his journey, Phelan experienced an array of local seafood dishes, including mussels, tuna, and octopus, relished directly at their source. He observed that while Madrid boasts good food, it is reliant on seafood transported from Galicia, where locals pride themselves on the quality of their offerings. Chefs like Rocio Garrido emphasized the significance of local shellfish, such as clams and cockles, and shared traditional cooking techniques. Their methods vary substantially from those employed by outsiders, underscoring the unique relationship Galicians have with their ingredients. Phelan's experiences were enriched by insights into local culture, such as the traditional tortilla and empanada recipes divulged during his cooking workshops. As he traveled further, he encountered the intertwining of modern tourism and ancient pilgrimage routes like the Camino de Santiago, which continues to attract thousands each year. Phelan concluded his gastronomic journey in Santiago de Compostela, enjoying a local cake named after St. James, further highlighting the region's culinary allure and cultural depth.