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Writer, Speaker & Event Curator

Almodóvar & Kitchens: "Pain & Glory"

Almodóvar & Kitchens: "Pain & Glory"

If there's one kitchen in Almodóvar's world that speaks to me, it’s undoubtedly the cave kitchen in Pain and Glory . Though the film is...

Mar 72 min read

Why Polvorones & Mantecados Are a Holiday Must

Why Polvorones & Mantecados Are a Holiday Must

I had the pleasure of writing an article about polvorones and mantecados for Food and Wines from Spain. If you have ever wondered what...

Dec 5, 20241 min read

Almodóvar & Kitchens: “Julieta”

Almodóvar & Kitchens: “Julieta”

Almodóvar must have spent much of his childhood in a kitchen, as he consistently elevates them to a starring role in his films. From the...

Sep 7, 20245 min read

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On my Substack today.

Gone are the days when dropping €30 on a can of fish shocked your friends. Gourmet conservas are everywhere—and the best ones? Galician, of course.

Galicia’s cool rías or estuaries house Europe’s richest seafood waters and finest factories.

But there's a twist. The same coastline that feeds Spain’s conserva obsession also became Europe’s drug gateway in the 80s and 90s. Factories once preserving sardines? Some were allegedly laundering cash. No wonder Netflix can’t stop buying shows about it: Fariña (Cocaine Coast) 2018, Vivir Sin Permiso (Unauthorized Living) 2018-2020, and Clanes (Gangs of Galicia) 2024.

Back to the present—Spain’s tinned seafood is both luxurious and totally prosaic. A tin of berberechos (cockles) with crisps? A student’s aperitivo. A €50 can of clams? A gift for a wannabe countess.

Want to try the best? Read it on my substack at Link in Bio.

TV Shows & Fish Tin Factories

1-Conservera de Oeste (Unathorized Living)
2-Conservera Moliner (Unathorized Living)
3-A raid at a conservera (Fariña the OG)
4-The new bad guys (Gangs of Galicia)

#fishtins #narcothrillers #substack #spanishfood

On my Substack today.

Gone are the days when dropping €30 on a can of fish shocked your friends. Gourmet conservas are everywhere—and the best ones? Galician, of course.

Galicia’s cool rías or estuaries house Europe’s richest seafood waters and finest factories.

But there's a twist. The same coastline that feeds Spain’s conserva obsession also became Europe’s drug gateway in the 80s and 90s. Factories once preserving sardines? Some were allegedly laundering cash. No wonder Netflix can’t stop buying shows about it: Fariña (Cocaine Coast) 2018, Vivir Sin Permiso (Unauthorized Living) 2018-2020, and Clanes (Gangs of Galicia) 2024.

Back to the present—Spain’s tinned seafood is both luxurious and totally prosaic. A tin of berberechos (cockles) with crisps? A student’s aperitivo. A €50 can of clams? A gift for a wannabe countess.

Want to try the best? Read it on my substack at Link in Bio.

TV Shows & Fish Tin Factories

1-Conservera de Oeste (Unathorized Living)
2-Conservera Moliner (Unathorized Living)
3-A raid at a conservera (Fariña the OG)
4-The new bad guys (Gangs of Galicia)

#fishtins #narcothrillers #substack #spanishfood

Thanks to all of you who read and shared How to Eat Like a Local in any Spanish City! Loved getting your comments and messages.

In the post I mention my love of centenary restaurants and the Guia Repsol Soletes.
This week with the burst of sunny weather I was reminiscing of summer nights in Granada a town overwhelmingly known for free tapas and where locals don't venture into restaurants as much as in other cities.

Bar FM in Granada is a great example of the place you should be looking for. It's a small restaurant with a short menu. It also happens to be in the Michelin Guide.
Aduriz, Adriá, and any chef that appreciates that frying is an art form is a fan. As are the locals that spent their hard earned cash on top notch seafood and service.

This seafood temple has been in operation since the 80s but was recenlty renovated with a modern new look. Their specialty is precise fish sourcing, a good hand with the plancha and above all expert frying. A thinly sliced dried octopus reminiscent of jerky is also part of their legendary menu.

Don't go here if you expect fish from the Lonja (Fish Market) of Motril to be cheap.

-Raw Quisquillas de Motril, a type of shrimp from the coast of Granada.
-The interior of the tiny Bar FM.
-Fried salmonetes.
-Chopitos a la plancha.
-The famous dried octopus pure concentrated flavor.
-Although my Castilian father does not have the enthusiasm I have for restaurant dining he admits that Bar FM is worth the money.
-Octopus croquetas.

#granadarestaurantes #guiamichelin #localfood #howtoeatlikealocal #barfm #gazpachochronicles

Thanks to all of you who read and shared How to Eat Like a Local in any Spanish City! Loved getting your comments and messages.

In the post I mention my love of centenary restaurants and the Guia Repsol Soletes.
This week with the burst of sunny weather I was reminiscing of summer nights in Granada a town overwhelmingly known for free tapas and where locals don't venture into restaurants as much as in other cities.

Bar FM in Granada is a great example of the place you should be looking for. It's a small restaurant with a short menu. It also happens to be in the Michelin Guide.
Aduriz, Adriá, and any chef that appreciates that frying is an art form is a fan. As are the locals that spent their hard earned cash on top notch seafood and service.

This seafood temple has been in operation since the 80s but was recenlty renovated with a modern new look. Their specialty is precise fish sourcing, a good hand with the plancha and above all expert frying. A thinly sliced dried octopus reminiscent of jerky is also part of their legendary menu.

Don't go here if you expect fish from the Lonja (Fish Market) of Motril to be cheap.

-Raw Quisquillas de Motril, a type of shrimp from the coast of Granada.
-The interior of the tiny Bar FM.
-Fried salmonetes.
-Chopitos a la plancha.
-The famous dried octopus pure concentrated flavor.
-Although my Castilian father does not have the enthusiasm I have for restaurant dining he admits that Bar FM is worth the money.
-Octopus croquetas.

#granadarestaurantes #guiamichelin #localfood #howtoeatlikealocal #barfm #gazpachochronicles

How to Eat like a Local in any Spanish up in my Substack The Gazpacho Chronicles today.

In Spain, so many restaurants clamor to be el sitio de moda (the fashionable place) that even locals can be confused. There’s traditional dishes and cutting-edge fare. Besides every region has its own culinary codes. The real challenge? Finding a place to eat without wasting your patience or cash. Here is where lesser known guides like Repsol o El País Gastro come in handy. And it’s not all about restaurants, it’s not easy to distinguish real food shops from the ones catering for guiris (Spain’s affectionate term for foreigners) while deciphering where are the truly good tapas bars.

Pictured some of my favorites:
-Mercado Central de Santiago
-Ceviche in @tampurestaurante Madrid
-Fabada anywhere in Asturias
-Classic pastries in @casa_ysla like pionono a sponge cake filled with caramelized egg yolk
-Mercado de San Anton Madrid
-Casa Tataguyo centenary restaurant in Avilés, Asturias
-La Tana wine bar in Granada
-El Bar de Paco in Córdoba

Read the complete article for the lowdown.

Subscribe to my substack where I share stories, recipes, and cultural deep dives. If you love Spanish food, quirky history, and the way cinema and art intersect with what we eat, you’re in the right place.
At Link in Bio and Stories

#eatlikealocal #spanishfood #tapas #spanishwinebars #guiarepsol #elpaís

How to Eat like a Local in any Spanish up in my Substack The Gazpacho Chronicles today.

In Spain, so many restaurants clamor to be el sitio de moda (the fashionable place) that even locals can be confused. There’s traditional dishes and cutting-edge fare. Besides every region has its own culinary codes. The real challenge? Finding a place to eat without wasting your patience or cash. Here is where lesser known guides like Repsol o El País Gastro come in handy. And it’s not all about restaurants, it’s not easy to distinguish real food shops from the ones catering for guiris (Spain’s affectionate term for foreigners) while deciphering where are the truly good tapas bars.

Pictured some of my favorites:
-Mercado Central de Santiago
-Ceviche in @tampurestaurante Madrid
-Fabada anywhere in Asturias
-Classic pastries in @casa_ysla like pionono a sponge cake filled with caramelized egg yolk
-Mercado de San Anton Madrid
-Casa Tataguyo centenary restaurant in Avilés, Asturias
-La Tana wine bar in Granada
-El Bar de Paco in Córdoba

Read the complete article for the lowdown.

Subscribe to my substack where I share stories, recipes, and cultural deep dives. If you love Spanish food, quirky history, and the way cinema and art intersect with what we eat, you’re in the right place.
At Link in Bio and Stories

#eatlikealocal #spanishfood #tapas #spanishwinebars #guiarepsol #elpaís

I have been working on article about 10 ways to eat like a local in Spain..lots of food for thought and coming soon!

In the quest to find the elusive perfect Spanish restaurant Bodegas Campos in Córdoba hits all the marks.
-Centenary
-Stylish
-Bullfighter and singer photos from your parents and grandparents era
-Local wines and local extra virgin olive oils
Viña Amalia @perezbarquerobodegas a blend of Pedro Ximénez, Torrontés, Muscat and Baladí-Verdejo packs the sunny terraces of Cordoba and happens to be one of my favorite names!
-Simple dishes elevated by top notch quality products (kudos to the famous Salmorejo made with the region's PDO olive oils from Priego de Cordoba)
-Tiles you want for your kitchen or country house if you have one
-Proximity to a gallery or museum you need to visit. In this case the Museo Julio Romero de Torres, Cordoba's archfamous painter who devised one of the most stunning marketing campaign for the wine region of Montilla featuring Cordoba's dark haired beauties.

Save this restaurant for your next visit to Córdoba.

#bodegascampos #spanishfood #spanishrestaurants #cordoba #tapas #eatlikealocal #andalucia

I have been working on article about 10 ways to eat like a local in Spain..lots of food for thought and coming soon!

In the quest to find the elusive perfect Spanish restaurant Bodegas Campos in Córdoba hits all the marks.
-Centenary
-Stylish
-Bullfighter and singer photos from your parents and grandparents era
-Local wines and local extra virgin olive oils
Viña Amalia @perezbarquerobodegas a blend of Pedro Ximénez, Torrontés, Muscat and Baladí-Verdejo packs the sunny terraces of Cordoba and happens to be one of my favorite names!
-Simple dishes elevated by top notch quality products (kudos to the famous Salmorejo made with the region's PDO olive oils from Priego de Cordoba)
-Tiles you want for your kitchen or country house if you have one
-Proximity to a gallery or museum you need to visit. In this case the Museo Julio Romero de Torres, Cordoba's archfamous painter who devised one of the most stunning marketing campaign for the wine region of Montilla featuring Cordoba's dark haired beauties.

Save this restaurant for your next visit to Córdoba.

#bodegascampos #spanishfood #spanishrestaurants #cordoba #tapas #eatlikealocal #andalucia

My substack this week is all about Spanish peppers:

🌶Why Spanish Peppers Taste Better from a Jar- And the Ones you Need to Know to Upgrade your Cooking.

In Spain we say "me importa un pimiento" when we mean that we don't give a damn so this expression highlights just how abundant and cheap peppers are.

In Spain, peppers aren’t just a garnish — they’re the backbone of our cooking, adding depth, color, and flavor.
So how do you use them?

🫑 Fresh in sofritos
🔥 Dried for bacalao a la vizcaína, pimentón de Guadix, salmorreta
🌶Pickled with Basque pochas (legumes) or in a gilda
🥄 Jarred piquillos and cristal, perfect for stuffing and salads
🫙 Thick pastes — our best-kept secret shortcut and indispensable in lentil and chorizo stew.

Because here, we really do give a pepper. 🌶🇪🇸

#SpanishFood #Pimientos #Pimentón #Tapas #FoodCulture #TheGazpachoChronicles #SpanishKitchen #FoodHistory #Sofrito #Peppers #EatSpain #Foodie

My substack this week is all about Spanish peppers:

🌶Why Spanish Peppers Taste Better from a Jar- And the Ones you Need to Know to Upgrade your Cooking.

In Spain we say "me importa un pimiento" when we mean that we don't give a damn so this expression highlights just how abundant and cheap peppers are.

In Spain, peppers aren’t just a garnish — they’re the backbone of our cooking, adding depth, color, and flavor.
So how do you use them?

🫑 Fresh in sofritos
🔥 Dried for bacalao a la vizcaína, pimentón de Guadix, salmorreta
🌶Pickled with Basque pochas (legumes) or in a gilda
🥄 Jarred piquillos and cristal, perfect for stuffing and salads
🫙 Thick pastes — our best-kept secret shortcut and indispensable in lentil and chorizo stew.

Because here, we really do give a pepper. 🌶🇪🇸

#SpanishFood #Pimientos #Pimentón #Tapas #FoodCulture #TheGazpachoChronicles #SpanishKitchen #FoodHistory #Sofrito #Peppers #EatSpain #Foodie

🍰 Grand Dessert- The History of Dessert from 1600 to the present. @kunstmuseum.nl The Hague, Holland. History and dessert as art. Yes please!
Guest Curator food historian and TV personality Jenny van der Heijden was able to cover so much territory from royal desserts to gelatines and create a multi sensory experience while highlighting artists who are inspired by desserts in their creations like @waynethiebaud_ @arnoutvanalbada @rommydebommy handbags and many more.
I did not want to leave and could easily live in this universe 🧁

#granddessert #artanddessert #foodinart #foodexhibition

🍰 Grand Dessert- The History of Dessert from 1600 to the present. @kunstmuseum.nl The Hague, Holland. History and dessert as art. Yes please!
Guest Curator food historian and TV personality Jenny van der Heijden was able to cover so much territory from royal desserts to gelatines and create a multi sensory experience while highlighting artists who are inspired by desserts in their creations like @waynethiebaud_ @arnoutvanalbada @rommydebommy handbags and many more.
I did not want to leave and could easily live in this universe 🧁

#granddessert #artanddessert #foodinart #foodexhibition

A Prado-Inspired Drinking Tour in Madrid now up on my Substack The Gazpacho Chronicles.

Ever wondered why museums don’t do more food and drinks tours?

A few years ago, I joined a wine tour at Madrid’s Thyssen Museum, pairing paintings with wine history. It ended at Mercado de San Miguel with a tasting—an experience that left me thinking: why aren’t more museums doing this? (This what we do over at @artplate_ie!)

So, I created my own inspired by El Prado, here’s a Madrid drinking tour through art:

🍷 Stop 1: Portable Wine
🖼️ El Bebedor (Goya)

🍸 Stop 2: Public Drunkenness
🖼️ Los Borrachos (Velázquez)

☕️ Stop 3: Drinking Chocolate & Merienda
🖼️ Interior de Una Casa en Aragón (Domínguez Bécquer)

💦 Stop 4: The Overlooked History of Water
🖼️ Las Meninas (Velázquez)

Read the article to find out the pairings and places !
From sherry bars frozen in time to century-old tabernas, Madrid’s drinking culture is woven into its art.

Subscribe to my substack where I share stories, recipes, and cultural deep dives. If you love Spanish food, quirky history, and the way cinema and art intersect with what we eat, you’re in the right place.
At Link in Bio and Stories

#Madrid #PradoMuseum #ArtandWine #DrinkHistory #SpainFoodCulture #substack #substackwriter

A Prado-Inspired Drinking Tour in Madrid now up on my Substack The Gazpacho Chronicles.

Ever wondered why museums don’t do more food and drinks tours?

A few years ago, I joined a wine tour at Madrid’s Thyssen Museum, pairing paintings with wine history. It ended at Mercado de San Miguel with a tasting—an experience that left me thinking: why aren’t more museums doing this? (This what we do over at @artplate_ie!)

So, I created my own inspired by El Prado, here’s a Madrid drinking tour through art:

🍷 Stop 1: Portable Wine
🖼️ El Bebedor (Goya)

🍸 Stop 2: Public Drunkenness
🖼️ Los Borrachos (Velázquez)

☕️ Stop 3: Drinking Chocolate & Merienda
🖼️ Interior de Una Casa en Aragón (Domínguez Bécquer)

💦 Stop 4: The Overlooked History of Water
🖼️ Las Meninas (Velázquez)

Read the article to find out the pairings and places !
From sherry bars frozen in time to century-old tabernas, Madrid’s drinking culture is woven into its art.

Subscribe to my substack where I share stories, recipes, and cultural deep dives. If you love Spanish food, quirky history, and the way cinema and art intersect with what we eat, you’re in the right place.
At Link in Bio and Stories

#Madrid #PradoMuseum #ArtandWine #DrinkHistory #SpainFoodCulture #substack #substackwriter

On my substack today:

Why film director Almodóvar’s Flans Are Hopelessly Overcooked—And How to Avoid the Same Mistake.

In my latest Gazpacho Chronicles post, I dive into flan’s role in Almodovar's films, its perfect (and not-so-perfect) textures, and why a good flan should be in your recipe arsenal. Plus, I share my go-to flan recipe—no giant bubbles, no stodginess, just silky and cool comfort food.

Also I have recorded a version of me reading it. Forgive how at times I can't pronounce ch..

Please subscribe to my substack or like and comment.
https://open.substack.com/pub/blancavalencia/p/why-film-director-almodovars-flans?r=6ed94&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=webTap the link in bio to read! 🔗

#GazpachoChronicles #Flan #Almodovar #SpanishFood #FoodStories #substack #substackwriter

On my substack today:

Why film director Almodóvar’s Flans Are Hopelessly Overcooked—And How to Avoid the Same Mistake.

In my latest Gazpacho Chronicles post, I dive into flan’s role in Almodovar's films, its perfect (and not-so-perfect) textures, and why a good flan should be in your recipe arsenal. Plus, I share my go-to flan recipe—no giant bubbles, no stodginess, just silky and cool comfort food.

Also I have recorded a version of me reading it. Forgive how at times I can't pronounce ch..

Please subscribe to my substack or like and comment.
https://open.substack.com/pub/blancavalencia/p/why-film-director-almodovars-flans?r=6ed94&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=webTap the link in bio to read! 🔗

#GazpachoChronicles #Flan #Almodovar #SpanishFood #FoodStories #substack #substackwriter

🗞️ I have some exciting news! 🗞️
I have a new substack.
( A substack is a publishing platform where writers like me can get supported for their work)

It's called of course The Gazpacho Chronicles 🍅 🍅 🍅

Why Gazpacho Chronicles?
Gazpacho embodies Spanish food—simple yet deep, modern yet traditional. Colloquially, it also means a mix or a mess (Esta serie es un gazpacho de géneros—This show is a mix of genres). Much like my substack 😊
Some topics that I will write about:

🎞️ Food in Film & TV
🖼️ Art on the Plate
🍽️ Unusual Recipes
🌎 Travel Bites

Much like a good glass (or bowl) of gazpacho, it will be a mix of history, humor, and plenty of food for thought.

What’s Next?
I’ll be writing weekly so please subscribe.

If you have a favorite Spanish food moment from a film, a painting or a dish you’d love to know more about please drop me a comment.

Subscribe at
https://blancavalencia.substack.com/

#spanishfood #newsubstack #substack #spanishfoodculture #spanishfilms #spanishrecipes

🗞️ I have some exciting news! 🗞️
I have a new substack.
( A substack is a publishing platform where writers like me can get supported for their work)

It's called of course The Gazpacho Chronicles 🍅 🍅 🍅

Why Gazpacho Chronicles?
Gazpacho embodies Spanish food—simple yet deep, modern yet traditional. Colloquially, it also means a mix or a mess (Esta serie es un gazpacho de géneros—This show is a mix of genres). Much like my substack 😊
Some topics that I will write about:

🎞️ Food in Film & TV
🖼️ Art on the Plate
🍽️ Unusual Recipes
🌎 Travel Bites

Much like a good glass (or bowl) of gazpacho, it will be a mix of history, humor, and plenty of food for thought.

What’s Next?
I’ll be writing weekly so please subscribe.

If you have a favorite Spanish food moment from a film, a painting or a dish you’d love to know more about please drop me a comment.

Subscribe at
https://blancavalencia.substack.com/

#spanishfood #newsubstack #substack #spanishfoodculture #spanishfilms #spanishrecipes

January was bittersweet (all the sadness & struggles of middle age compressed into one month) with some rays of sunshine ☀️

New Year visit to London with Amalia, my youngest daughter.
@kilnsoho
@dishoom
@japanhouseldn stunning plastic food exhibit thanks @angela_zaher for posting about it ❤️
@lafromagerieuk where I spent so much time while I was in cooking school at @lecordonbleulondon
@pizzapilgrims
@lakridsbybulow I could buy every single flavor!
Naomi @vamuseum
@nationalgallery
Lots of walks

Back in Dublin our pubs in art event and tour was a blast @artplate_ie event @santina_kennedy_ @nationalgalleryofireland

Very lucky to collaborate again @dublinlunarny in our events @chester_beatty_dublin talking tea one day and gifts the next with deep-diver @jiemeimeichin

@paperandtea order was stunning. Great teas, packaging and a little gift of tea and chocolate. Amalia and I have learnt so much from their tasting notes 🗒️

Hot pot finale of Canned peaches and jelly iykyk 😜 @jiemeimeichin

The Saint Brigid’s cocktail 🍹 @santina_kennedy_ @thekclubireland was what I needed to perk me up

Happy February ❤️

January was bittersweet (all the sadness & struggles of middle age compressed into one month) with some rays of sunshine ☀️

New Year visit to London with Amalia, my youngest daughter.
@kilnsoho
@dishoom
@japanhouseldn stunning plastic food exhibit thanks @angela_zaher for posting about it ❤️
@lafromagerieuk where I spent so much time while I was in cooking school at @lecordonbleulondon
@pizzapilgrims
@lakridsbybulow I could buy every single flavor!
Naomi @vamuseum
@nationalgallery
Lots of walks

Back in Dublin our pubs in art event and tour was a blast @artplate_ie event @santina_kennedy_ @nationalgalleryofireland

Very lucky to collaborate again @dublinlunarny in our events @chester_beatty_dublin talking tea one day and gifts the next with deep-diver @jiemeimeichin

@paperandtea order was stunning. Great teas, packaging and a little gift of tea and chocolate. Amalia and I have learnt so much from their tasting notes 🗒️

Hot pot finale of Canned peaches and jelly iykyk 😜 @jiemeimeichin

The Saint Brigid’s cocktail 🍹 @santina_kennedy_ @thekclubireland was what I needed to perk me up

Happy February ❤️

Wonderful celebration of Saint Brigid curated by the wonderful @santina_kennedy_ for the @thekclubireland
Food and drink @gazzachef @thekclubireland

Talks by Ireland’s leading women in drinks and food
@valentiaislandvermouth
@beara_bitters
@saltrockfarm
@boanndistillery
@judithboyle
@windrush_farm_ireland

poetry @flowerbudds and finished with a calming sound bath by @audreyoconnor_____

Wonderful celebration of Saint Brigid curated by the wonderful @santina_kennedy_ for the @thekclubireland
Food and drink @gazzachef @thekclubireland

Talks by Ireland’s leading women in drinks and food
@valentiaislandvermouth
@beara_bitters
@saltrockfarm
@boanndistillery
@judithboyle
@windrush_farm_ireland

poetry @flowerbudds and finished with a calming sound bath by @audreyoconnor_____

Tomorrow at 13:10 at @chester_beatty_dublin for @dublinlunarny @jiemeimeichin and I will be talking all things tea. Tea is one of my big passions and I had the luck to explore many tea rituals when I lived in China from Longjing to Wuyi and on my travels to Korea and Japan.

The Allure of Tea: Exploring the Many Facets of the World’s Most Compelling Leaf.

Did you know that tea – China’s longest guarded secret – arguably sparked the Opium War? Tea has been a source of pleasure for so many of us, but there are many worlds brewing inside of one cuppa. While its history can be wonderous, there is also poverty and heartbreak. We will hunt for memorable depictions of tea in paintings and literature, examine some of its most important and intriguing varieties, and delve into myriad tea cultures and tea vessels in East Asia, Ireland, England, and elsewhere. We will look at tea for aristocrats, the clergy, and the common people, and tea made from snow and infused by being placed in blossoms before they close at night. We will explore the modern world of cold brew and cheese and boba tea, tea sommeliers, and 75 euro tea pairings at chic restaurants like London’s The Clove Club and Berlin’s Oukan.

Some photos from my tea travels in Korea, Taiwan and China.
Link in Bio

Tomorrow at 13:10 at @chester_beatty_dublin for @dublinlunarny @jiemeimeichin and I will be talking all things tea. Tea is one of my big passions and I had the luck to explore many tea rituals when I lived in China from Longjing to Wuyi and on my travels to Korea and Japan.

The Allure of Tea: Exploring the Many Facets of the World’s Most Compelling Leaf.

Did you know that tea – China’s longest guarded secret – arguably sparked the Opium War? Tea has been a source of pleasure for so many of us, but there are many worlds brewing inside of one cuppa. While its history can be wonderous, there is also poverty and heartbreak. We will hunt for memorable depictions of tea in paintings and literature, examine some of its most important and intriguing varieties, and delve into myriad tea cultures and tea vessels in East Asia, Ireland, England, and elsewhere. We will look at tea for aristocrats, the clergy, and the common people, and tea made from snow and infused by being placed in blossoms before they close at night. We will explore the modern world of cold brew and cheese and boba tea, tea sommeliers, and 75 euro tea pairings at chic restaurants like London’s The Clove Club and Berlin’s Oukan.

Some photos from my tea travels in Korea, Taiwan and China.
Link in Bio

November favourite things

1. Polvorones @atasteofspain.ie Spain's iconic pork fat cookies.
2. Hot pot @laodublin with my daughters.
3. A cute monkey left in the dart.
4. @xianstreetfood noodles after @gaiety_theatre sublime Valley of the Twitching Curtains
5. The hostess with the mostess @santina_kennedy_ and the eternal dilema Barry Vs. Lyons at our inagural @artplate_ie event @nationalgalleryofireland
6. Tablescaping The Hellfire Club painting @artplate_ie @nationalgalleryofireland and the fiasco bottles from @littleitalydublin
7. A very generous pan con tomate at Asador with @omedoil arbequina in the company of @lesliewinefood
8-11 Out of this world @repose.ie yoga retreat with atttention to detail to spare @thedeerstone in gorgeous Wicklow.
12-13 A solo and much needed trip to @roundwoodstores
14 Girl's night out @normasheahanactor Wine O'Clock unmissable and hysterical fun especially Norma's tinder book and her mom of teenagers gags.
15 A story structure workshop with the always full of insights @ffoicecoaching on Ruth Reichl's Delicious. Book club on steroids.
16 Colombian coffee @cafelamaria

November favourite things

1. Polvorones @atasteofspain.ie Spain's iconic pork fat cookies.
2. Hot pot @laodublin with my daughters.
3. A cute monkey left in the dart.
4. @xianstreetfood noodles after @gaiety_theatre sublime Valley of the Twitching Curtains
5. The hostess with the mostess @santina_kennedy_ and the eternal dilema Barry Vs. Lyons at our inagural @artplate_ie event @nationalgalleryofireland
6. Tablescaping The Hellfire Club painting @artplate_ie @nationalgalleryofireland and the fiasco bottles from @littleitalydublin
7. A very generous pan con tomate at Asador with @omedoil arbequina in the company of @lesliewinefood
8-11 Out of this world @repose.ie yoga retreat with atttention to detail to spare @thedeerstone in gorgeous Wicklow.
12-13 A solo and much needed trip to @roundwoodstores
14 Girl's night out @normasheahanactor Wine O'Clock unmissable and hysterical fun especially Norma's tinder book and her mom of teenagers gags.
15 A story structure workshop with the always full of insights @ffoicecoaching on Ruth Reichl's Delicious. Book club on steroids.
16 Colombian coffee @cafelamaria

Last month I had the honor to meet @calleluciana a Colombian pastry chef and expert in cacao and hear about the cooperatives that are creating new chocolate and cacao products especially in zones that were affected by armed conflicts in Colombia.

Luciana has been collaborating and training women in these coops.

One not always wonders about the origins of our everyday treats such as chocolate and where exactly they come from. To hear the stories of hard work in order to reach the final customer are enlightening. In our role as consumers pondering the origin and enabling this development are key.

Luciana led us on a a chocolate tasting and gave us an overview of the process. One of the highlights were the chocolate bars by @paz_sabor in San Andres de Tumaco the 85% had distinct floral and tropical notes ❤️
She also made us three types of traditional chocolate drinks:
1) parviao chocolate, with cinnamon and cloves, typical of Antioquia and the Coffee Region; 2) chocolate with coconut milk, typical of Tumaco; and 3) chocolate made from chucula, a mixture that contains 50% cocoa and 50% corn flour, widely consumed in the High Plateau of the Cundiboyacense and in the Caribbean.
We also tasted single origin coffee from @cafelamaria in Nariño.
The mini arepas made with butter and cheese and grilled to perfection were a revelation. All served in @vivoralceramica

Thanks to the @embcol_ireland and Her Excellency Betty Escorcia and Miriam Abuin for the invitation.

It was lovely to meet anthropologist Alejandro Valderrama @ethical_origin whom among other things imports food products from Colombia and is a fountain of knowledge about all things origin. He is also part of @wicklownaturally

#colombianfood #colombiancoffee #colombiancacao

Last month I had the honor to meet @calleluciana a Colombian pastry chef and expert in cacao and hear about the cooperatives that are creating new chocolate and cacao products especially in zones that were affected by armed conflicts in Colombia.

Luciana has been collaborating and training women in these coops.

One not always wonders about the origins of our everyday treats such as chocolate and where exactly they come from. To hear the stories of hard work in order to reach the final customer are enlightening. In our role as consumers pondering the origin and enabling this development are key.

Luciana led us on a a chocolate tasting and gave us an overview of the process. One of the highlights were the chocolate bars by @paz_sabor in San Andres de Tumaco the 85% had distinct floral and tropical notes ❤️
She also made us three types of traditional chocolate drinks:
1) parviao chocolate, with cinnamon and cloves, typical of Antioquia and the Coffee Region; 2) chocolate with coconut milk, typical of Tumaco; and 3) chocolate made from chucula, a mixture that contains 50% cocoa and 50% corn flour, widely consumed in the High Plateau of the Cundiboyacense and in the Caribbean.
We also tasted single origin coffee from @cafelamaria in Nariño.
The mini arepas made with butter and cheese and grilled to perfection were a revelation. All served in @vivoralceramica

Thanks to the @embcol_ireland and Her Excellency Betty Escorcia and Miriam Abuin for the invitation.

It was lovely to meet anthropologist Alejandro Valderrama @ethical_origin whom among other things imports food products from Colombia and is a fountain of knowledge about all things origin. He is also part of @wicklownaturally

#colombianfood #colombiancoffee #colombiancacao

@blastabooks is having a 15% discount on all their books this weekend. If you are looking for a Christmas gift all the books from the collection are very special.

Some of my favourite moments recipe testing for the cookbook I did with @deelaffan @jiemeimeichin @blastabooks Soup are related to Colombian Ajiaco.

"Colombia is blessed with ajiaco, a distinctive dish made with three different types of local potatoes, corn, chicken and a local herb called guascas (in Ireland, this is a weed called gallant soldiers)."

1-my daughters eating ajiaco on hand-embroidered placemats from El Salvador and cocobolo wood bowls from Costa Rica. The cutlery is vintage from an antique store on Northcote Rd. in London. They absolutely were not allowed to eat on those placemats!

2- Nicky Hooper did a wonderful illustration of this traditional soup but we asked her to replace the bowls with the ceramics from @vivoralceramica that the Colombian Embassy in Ireland used and where @deelaffan and I were taught the recipe by the then Colombian ambassador to Ireland, HE Mrs Patricia Cortés Ortiz. @flavour.ie wrote a piece about this soup and our cookbook for @bbc !
3- Soup cookbook all ready for Christmas
4-The ajiaco made by the Ambassador.
5-An everyday ajiaco in my kitchen.
6-Ajiaco recipe testing photo.

Illustration @nickyhooper

#soupcookbook #blastabooks #soups #ajiaco #colombianfood

@blastabooks is having a 15% discount on all their books this weekend. If you are looking for a Christmas gift all the books from the collection are very special.

Some of my favourite moments recipe testing for the cookbook I did with @deelaffan @jiemeimeichin @blastabooks Soup are related to Colombian Ajiaco.

"Colombia is blessed with ajiaco, a distinctive dish made with three different types of local potatoes, corn, chicken and a local herb called guascas (in Ireland, this is a weed called gallant soldiers)."

1-my daughters eating ajiaco on hand-embroidered placemats from El Salvador and cocobolo wood bowls from Costa Rica. The cutlery is vintage from an antique store on Northcote Rd. in London. They absolutely were not allowed to eat on those placemats!

2- Nicky Hooper did a wonderful illustration of this traditional soup but we asked her to replace the bowls with the ceramics from @vivoralceramica that the Colombian Embassy in Ireland used and where @deelaffan and I were taught the recipe by the then Colombian ambassador to Ireland, HE Mrs Patricia Cortés Ortiz. @flavour.ie wrote a piece about this soup and our cookbook for @bbc !
3- Soup cookbook all ready for Christmas
4-The ajiaco made by the Ambassador.
5-An everyday ajiaco in my kitchen.
6-Ajiaco recipe testing photo.

Illustration @nickyhooper

#soupcookbook #blastabooks #soups #ajiaco #colombianfood

🍷 I was excited to join @findlater_and_co at @lennansyard as we celebrated the wines of @marimarestate from California's Russian River Valley and Marimar herself! Marimar Torres, a food heroine of mine, has long inspired me with her passion for pairing food and wine cultures. Apart from her wine making skills Marimar is a fearless paella maker with an array of paella pans to feed up to 60 people. During Covid I watched her and her daughter Cristina's cooking show The Spanish Table which brought good memories of cooking with my aunties in Spain.

Her dedication shines through not only in her wines but also in her incredible cookbooks, The Catalan Country Kitchen and the Spanish Table.

As someone who has drank a fair bit of Albariño I really was impressed with Don Miguel Vineyard with its peach and floral notes and bright acidity.
Other wines that reflect Marimar’s artistry were two Cristina Pinot Noirs 2014 and 2019.

Thanks Leah Wang @findlater_and_co for the lovely invite.
Lovely to catch up with the lovely @a.class.of.wine and @trish.wine.diary @winespiritwomen and wine critic @the_liamcampbell
@lennansyard is truly fantastic at hosting wine events.
#MarimarEstate #RussianRiverValley #Findlaters #WineEvent #FoodandWine #spanishcookbooks #marimartorres

🍷 I was excited to join @findlater_and_co at @lennansyard as we celebrated the wines of @marimarestate from California's Russian River Valley and Marimar herself! Marimar Torres, a food heroine of mine, has long inspired me with her passion for pairing food and wine cultures. Apart from her wine making skills Marimar is a fearless paella maker with an array of paella pans to feed up to 60 people. During Covid I watched her and her daughter Cristina's cooking show The Spanish Table which brought good memories of cooking with my aunties in Spain.

Her dedication shines through not only in her wines but also in her incredible cookbooks, The Catalan Country Kitchen and the Spanish Table.

As someone who has drank a fair bit of Albariño I really was impressed with Don Miguel Vineyard with its peach and floral notes and bright acidity.
Other wines that reflect Marimar’s artistry were two Cristina Pinot Noirs 2014 and 2019.

Thanks Leah Wang @findlater_and_co for the lovely invite.
Lovely to catch up with the lovely @a.class.of.wine and @trish.wine.diary @winespiritwomen and wine critic @the_liamcampbell
@lennansyard is truly fantastic at hosting wine events.
#MarimarEstate #RussianRiverValley #Findlaters #WineEvent #FoodandWine #spanishcookbooks #marimartorres

The fiesta might be over but the ironing isn't 💃✨ Wrapping up Eat Spain Drink Spain events one ruffle at a time!

Thanks to all who made it a great success!

#FlamencoChores #EatSpainDrinkSpain

photo credit: @melmullan

The fiesta might be over but the ironing isn't 💃✨ Wrapping up Eat Spain Drink Spain events one ruffle at a time!

Thanks to all who made it a great success!

#FlamencoChores #EatSpainDrinkSpain

photo credit: @melmullan

As part of #eatspaindrinkspain we had a great night in @Choquerabistro in Newport Tipperary celebrating the best of Andalucia.
🧑‍🍳 Cinta, a gifted baker and cook even had an expert ham cutter, a sight unseen in Ireland’s big cities but which she has managed to pull off on several occasions.

⭐️Favourite dishes

❤️ 🍰 Torrija del pobre (a pain perdu of sorts) with @inesrosalessau ice cream @verafoodsdeliciousthings orange wine from Huelva @consejoreguladorcondadohuelva
The orange wines of Huelva are made with the autochthonous Zalema grape and Muscat of Alexandria using a solera system and aromatized with macerated dehydrated orange peel. This sweet wine is balanced by its acidity.
I have tried this wine in several Andalusian restaurants lately and it quickly has become my go to dessert wine.

❤️🐠The mojama of Isla Cristina @mojamaigp with Payoyo cheese was another standout. The salt-cured mojama is the ham of the sea and the pairing of this fatty dry fish with crispy almonds and new season extra virgin olive oil is one pairing I can't resist.

Thanks to all the participants of this year’s edition and especially to our Andalusian contingent.

Lovely to be seated with the wonderful @siucrashack @foodstoryireland @lucy_lambe_artist and John from @choquerabistro

#eatspaindrinkspain #tapasireland #spanishfoodinireland

As part of #eatspaindrinkspain we had a great night in @Choquerabistro in Newport Tipperary celebrating the best of Andalucia.
🧑‍🍳 Cinta, a gifted baker and cook even had an expert ham cutter, a sight unseen in Ireland’s big cities but which she has managed to pull off on several occasions.

⭐️Favourite dishes

❤️ 🍰 Torrija del pobre (a pain perdu of sorts) with @inesrosalessau ice cream @verafoodsdeliciousthings orange wine from Huelva @consejoreguladorcondadohuelva
The orange wines of Huelva are made with the autochthonous Zalema grape and Muscat of Alexandria using a solera system and aromatized with macerated dehydrated orange peel. This sweet wine is balanced by its acidity.
I have tried this wine in several Andalusian restaurants lately and it quickly has become my go to dessert wine.

❤️🐠The mojama of Isla Cristina @mojamaigp with Payoyo cheese was another standout. The salt-cured mojama is the ham of the sea and the pairing of this fatty dry fish with crispy almonds and new season extra virgin olive oil is one pairing I can't resist.

Thanks to all the participants of this year’s edition and especially to our Andalusian contingent.

Lovely to be seated with the wonderful @siucrashack @foodstoryireland @lucy_lambe_artist and John from @choquerabistro

#eatspaindrinkspain #tapasireland #spanishfoodinireland

Delighted to host this extra virgin olive oil workshop in the beautiful @neffhomeie NEFF Inspiration Kitchen @airfieldestate as part of #eatspaindrinkspain @spainfoodwine

I did a whirlwind tour of the history of olive oil, tasted some oils and tasted some savoury and sweet recipes with olive oil.

Thanks to @airfieldestate for the local and seasonal produce from their gardens that we used to explore different vegetable scents like tomato leaf.

Thanks to all the participating olive oil producers: @fincalatorre @castillodecanena @aubocassa @noblezadelsur @olissole

Food producers
@mojamaigp
@quilloquearte

Wines
@orodecastilla DO Rueda
@monteabellon DO Ribera del Duero
@bodegatandem DO Cariñena
@libreysalvaje_bodega

Importers

@sarahandolivedublin
@laroussefoods1
@dalcassianwines_spirits
@obrienswine
@bubblebrotherscork
@laroussewines

Thanks to baker extraordinaire Cinta Ramblado @choquerabistro for her hornazo de Huelva, Olive oil chocolate cake and her sourdough bread made with Isla Cristina Virgin Salt!
Thanks @saspan_sospan cookery tutor @airfieldestate for all her help ❤️
Thanks @hostandcompany @euzaninha for the photos!

#eatspaindrinkspaim #evoo spanishevoo #spanishfood

Delighted to host this extra virgin olive oil workshop in the beautiful @neffhomeie NEFF Inspiration Kitchen @airfieldestate as part of #eatspaindrinkspain @spainfoodwine

I did a whirlwind tour of the history of olive oil, tasted some oils and tasted some savoury and sweet recipes with olive oil.

Thanks to @airfieldestate for the local and seasonal produce from their gardens that we used to explore different vegetable scents like tomato leaf.

Thanks to all the participating olive oil producers: @fincalatorre @castillodecanena @aubocassa @noblezadelsur @olissole

Food producers
@mojamaigp
@quilloquearte

Wines
@orodecastilla DO Rueda
@monteabellon DO Ribera del Duero
@bodegatandem DO Cariñena
@libreysalvaje_bodega

Importers

@sarahandolivedublin
@laroussefoods1
@dalcassianwines_spirits
@obrienswine
@bubblebrotherscork
@laroussewines

Thanks to baker extraordinaire Cinta Ramblado @choquerabistro for her hornazo de Huelva, Olive oil chocolate cake and her sourdough bread made with Isla Cristina Virgin Salt!
Thanks @saspan_sospan cookery tutor @airfieldestate for all her help ❤️
Thanks @hostandcompany @euzaninha for the photos!

#eatspaindrinkspaim #evoo spanishevoo #spanishfood

One of my favourite olive oil recipes from my days at @alambiquemadrid Oranges with caramelised zest and early harvest extra virgin olive oil!

The combination of oranges and olive oil is a classic Spanish combination. The caramelised orange zest gives it a festive touch. Around Christmas I buy the caramelized zest from places like @cavistons instead of the arduous task of making it.

Serves 6:

8 oranges
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
¼ cup Picual
extra virgin olive oil
Peel the oranges making sure you remove the white pith which is bitter. Julienne the orange zest and blanch in boiling water for a few seconds.

Make a simple syrup by boiling water and sugar for 5 minutes and add the blanched peels. Simmer for a further 5-10 minutes and allow to cool. Pour over the oranges and refrigerate

Before serving sprinkle with some very good and fruity extra virgin olive oil.

#evoorecipes #aoverecetas #extravirginoliveoil #picual

One of my favourite olive oil recipes from my days at @alambiquemadrid Oranges with caramelised zest and early harvest extra virgin olive oil!

The combination of oranges and olive oil is a classic Spanish combination. The caramelised orange zest gives it a festive touch. Around Christmas I buy the caramelized zest from places like @cavistons instead of the arduous task of making it.

Serves 6:

8 oranges
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
¼ cup Picual
extra virgin olive oil
Peel the oranges making sure you remove the white pith which is bitter. Julienne the orange zest and blanch in boiling water for a few seconds.

Make a simple syrup by boiling water and sugar for 5 minutes and add the blanched peels. Simmer for a further 5-10 minutes and allow to cool. Pour over the oranges and refrigerate

Before serving sprinkle with some very good and fruity extra virgin olive oil.

#evoorecipes #aoverecetas #extravirginoliveoil #picual

Last night as part of Eat Spain Drink Spain @institutocervantesdublin we explored Spanish masterpieces from the National Gallery of Ireland, pairing them with Spain’s finest grape varieties—Tempranillo, Verdejo, and Albariño—alongside iconic products like sobrasada, Catalan almonds, and Ibérico products from the over 70 food and wine producers participating in this edition of Eat Spain Drink Spain in Ireland 🇪🇸🍇We had the honour of hosting His Excellency Ion de la Riva Guzmán, the Spanish Ambassador and counted with the presence of importers, food shops, Ireland Spain Economic Area ISEA, @lingotot.ie, writers, chefs, @aroundireland.ie, @polish_wine_fest @fallonandbyrne @carringtonwinemerchants and Cervantes students. Thanks to all who came!
@verafoodsdeliciousthings
@castillodecanena
@sarahandolivedublin
@fincalatorre @mas.tarres
@noblezadelsur
@ibericosguillen
@lacuriosa.es
@quilloquearte
@perellofoods
@cassidywinesdac
@laroussewines
@mackenwaywines
@terradeasorei
@valminorebano
@monteabellon
ESDS team
@hostandcompany
@sineadsmyth1
@a.class.of.wine
ICEX Dublin team
#SpanishArtAndGastronomy #WineAndCulture #SpanishAmbassador #BlancaValencia #Tempranillo #Verdejo #Albariño #NationalGalleryIreland #FoodAndWine
#eatspaindrinkspain

Last night as part of Eat Spain Drink Spain @institutocervantesdublin we explored Spanish masterpieces from the National Gallery of Ireland, pairing them with Spain’s finest grape varieties—Tempranillo, Verdejo, and Albariño—alongside iconic products like sobrasada, Catalan almonds, and Ibérico products from the over 70 food and wine producers participating in this edition of Eat Spain Drink Spain in Ireland 🇪🇸🍇We had the honour of hosting His Excellency Ion de la Riva Guzmán, the Spanish Ambassador and counted with the presence of importers, food shops, Ireland Spain Economic Area ISEA, @lingotot.ie, writers, chefs, @aroundireland.ie, @polish_wine_fest @fallonandbyrne @carringtonwinemerchants and Cervantes students. Thanks to all who came!
@verafoodsdeliciousthings
@castillodecanena
@sarahandolivedublin
@fincalatorre @mas.tarres
@noblezadelsur
@ibericosguillen
@lacuriosa.es
@quilloquearte
@perellofoods
@cassidywinesdac
@laroussewines
@mackenwaywines
@terradeasorei
@valminorebano
@monteabellon
ESDS team
@hostandcompany
@sineadsmyth1
@a.class.of.wine
ICEX Dublin team
#SpanishArtAndGastronomy #WineAndCulture #SpanishAmbassador #BlancaValencia #Tempranillo #Verdejo #Albariño #NationalGalleryIreland #FoodAndWine
#eatspaindrinkspain

Thanks a million @sharonjnoonan for having me in Best Possible Taste talking about all the wonderful events in Eat Spain, Drink Spain. Eat Spain Drink Spain takes place October 1st to October 19th across Ireland.

Whether you love art, quizzes, tapas trails, paired dinners, extra virgin olive oil there is something for everyone!
It's a celebration of Spanish food and drink producers in collaboration with all the great importers, retailers, and wine and food professionals and journalists of Ireland.

You can listen here or At Link in Bio

https://sharonnoonan.com/blanca-valencia/
For more info or at Link in Bio
https://www.foodswinesfromspain.com/en/spain-food-nation/events/esds-ireland-2024

#eatspaindrinkspain #spanishfood #spanishfoodinireland #irishfoodpodcast

Thanks a million @sharonjnoonan for having me in Best Possible Taste talking about all the wonderful events in Eat Spain, Drink Spain. Eat Spain Drink Spain takes place October 1st to October 19th across Ireland.

Whether you love art, quizzes, tapas trails, paired dinners, extra virgin olive oil there is something for everyone!
It's a celebration of Spanish food and drink producers in collaboration with all the great importers, retailers, and wine and food professionals and journalists of Ireland.

You can listen here or At Link in Bio

https://sharonnoonan.com/blanca-valencia/
For more info or at Link in Bio
https://www.foodswinesfromspain.com/en/spain-food-nation/events/esds-ireland-2024

#eatspaindrinkspain #spanishfood #spanishfoodinireland #irishfoodpodcast

If you are a Spanish food aficionado celebrating Eat Spain Drink Spain 2024 and want to explore the intersection of Almódovar movies and Spanish kitchens take time to listen to this @spicebagspod mini-episode @jiemeimeichin and I recorded about two years ago as part of Season 3.

At link in Bio and Stories.

In this mini-episode, Mei quizzes Blanca on one of her favourite topics: Kitchens in Spanish Film Director Pedro Almodovar movies.

🎥 🎥 🎥 🎥
.
.
.

From the tenebrous kitchen in "What Have I Done to Deserve This?" to the airy one in "Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown", some of the most famous kitchens of the Almódovar universe are discussed.

Plus Mei and Blanca discuss foods like flan and gazpacho that are quintessential to understanding Almodovar himself, Spanish society and the role of women.

Almodovar has just released the movie "Parallel Mothers" with Penelope Cruz, one in which the kitchen tells us about the lives of the characters and his first openly political movie about the consequences of the Spanish Civil War.

To see a young Pedro in Spain’s most iconic cooking show check out “Con las Manos en la Masa” on youtube or RTVE archives.

Movies and shorts mentioned:

What Have I Done to Deserve This?
Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown
Pain and Glory
The Cannibalistic Councillor

#almodovar #almodovarmovies #almodovarkitchens
#irishpodcast #foodpodcast #spanishfood #kitchensinmovies
#thisheadstuff #eatspaindrinkspain

If you are a Spanish food aficionado celebrating Eat Spain Drink Spain 2024 and want to explore the intersection of Almódovar movies and Spanish kitchens take time to listen to this @spicebagspod mini-episode @jiemeimeichin and I recorded about two years ago as part of Season 3.

At link in Bio and Stories.

In this mini-episode, Mei quizzes Blanca on one of her favourite topics: Kitchens in Spanish Film Director Pedro Almodovar movies.

🎥 🎥 🎥 🎥
.
.
.

From the tenebrous kitchen in "What Have I Done to Deserve This?" to the airy one in "Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown", some of the most famous kitchens of the Almódovar universe are discussed.

Plus Mei and Blanca discuss foods like flan and gazpacho that are quintessential to understanding Almodovar himself, Spanish society and the role of women.

Almodovar has just released the movie "Parallel Mothers" with Penelope Cruz, one in which the kitchen tells us about the lives of the characters and his first openly political movie about the consequences of the Spanish Civil War.

To see a young Pedro in Spain’s most iconic cooking show check out “Con las Manos en la Masa” on youtube or RTVE archives.

Movies and shorts mentioned:

What Have I Done to Deserve This?
Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown
Pain and Glory
The Cannibalistic Councillor

#almodovar #almodovarmovies #almodovarkitchens
#irishpodcast #foodpodcast #spanishfood #kitchensinmovies
#thisheadstuff #eatspaindrinkspain

As part of the Eat Spain Drink Spain in Ireland (01/10-19/10) I will be hosting four events that showcase the best of Spanish producers.

Spanish Art and Gastronomy
03/10
6 pm
€20

@institutocervantesdublin
As part of ESDS I will explore Spanish paintings from the National Gallery of Ireland through a gastronomic lens, pairing them with Spain's iconic grape varieties—Tempranillo, Verdejo, and Albariño—and other food products like sobrasada, almonds and Ibérico ham.

Olive oil workshop and tasting
10/10
3pm
@airfieldestate The Neff Inspiration Kitchen

Join us for an Extra Virgin Olive Oil cooking demo and tasting nestled within the beautiful gardens of the estate.You'll learn the art of pairing these exceptional oils with vegetables and fruits, and its versatility in both cooking and baking.
Come taste oils from @castillodecanena @aubocassa and @sarahandolivedublin repertoire of @noblezadelsur @fincalatorre @mas.tarres

Eat Spain Drink Spain Quiz
11/10
6:30 pm
@institutocervantesdublin

I will be hosting a food, beer and wine quiz with food writer and event curator Ali Dunworth, author of “A Compendium of Irish Pints” and sponsored by @estrellagalicia_ie

Andalusian Wine and Food evening
18/10
7pm
40€
@choquerabistro
Newport, Tipperarry

Choquera Bistro is set to host an Andalusian wine and tapas evening as part of ESDS. The event will feature Cinta Ramblado, a chef who transitioned from academia to follow her passion and I will kick off the evening by taking a deep dive into my favourite cities, foods and wines.
More info @choquerabistro

As part of the Eat Spain Drink Spain in Ireland (01/10-19/10) I will be hosting four events that showcase the best of Spanish producers.

Spanish Art and Gastronomy
03/10
6 pm
€20

@institutocervantesdublin
As part of ESDS I will explore Spanish paintings from the National Gallery of Ireland through a gastronomic lens, pairing them with Spain's iconic grape varieties—Tempranillo, Verdejo, and Albariño—and other food products like sobrasada, almonds and Ibérico ham.

Olive oil workshop and tasting
10/10
3pm
@airfieldestate The Neff Inspiration Kitchen

Join us for an Extra Virgin Olive Oil cooking demo and tasting nestled within the beautiful gardens of the estate.You'll learn the art of pairing these exceptional oils with vegetables and fruits, and its versatility in both cooking and baking.
Come taste oils from @castillodecanena @aubocassa and @sarahandolivedublin repertoire of @noblezadelsur @fincalatorre @mas.tarres

Eat Spain Drink Spain Quiz
11/10
6:30 pm
@institutocervantesdublin

I will be hosting a food, beer and wine quiz with food writer and event curator Ali Dunworth, author of “A Compendium of Irish Pints” and sponsored by @estrellagalicia_ie

Andalusian Wine and Food evening
18/10
7pm
40€
@choquerabistro
Newport, Tipperarry

Choquera Bistro is set to host an Andalusian wine and tapas evening as part of ESDS. The event will feature Cinta Ramblado, a chef who transitioned from academia to follow her passion and I will kick off the evening by taking a deep dive into my favourite cities, foods and wines.
More info @choquerabistro

Bilbao with kids ❤️
@bilbaomuseoa
@hotel_nyx
@elglobo.bilbao
@lavinadelensanche
Irrintzi
Heladería Alaska
Lluvia ☔️

#bilbaowithkids #bilbao #bilbaopintxos #bilbaomuseos #blancsspain

Bilbao with kids ❤️
@bilbaomuseoa
@hotel_nyx
@elglobo.bilbao
@lavinadelensanche
Irrintzi
Heladería Alaska
Lluvia ☔️

#bilbaowithkids #bilbao #bilbaopintxos #bilbaomuseos #blancsspain

21 years ❤️!

21 years ❤️!

An easily achievable Spanish rice you can make on a weekday is this typical San Sebastián arroz con almejas or rice with clams. Decades ago I tasted this dish in a restaurant called Clery in the city when I lived in the Basque Country. I was captivated by its elegance and simplicity. So few ingredients, no dreaded socarrat(sorry Paella Valenciana) and no expensive saffron makes this my go to rice when I am able to get high quality clams. f you go to a fishmonger they will give you free parsley too!
Be aware that with rice you need to have more stock (or in a pinch water) in case the stock has evaporated and the rice is still not cooked.
This recipes feeds 4-6

Arroz con Almejas
1 onion, finely chopped
1 green pepper, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
A handful of parsley, finely chopped
300 g. Spanish rice (preferably Senia) or Carnaroli
1 litre of fish or shellfish stock plus extra in case
¼ cup white wine
1 kg. Clams

Clean the clams by rinsing them under water. Most cultivated clams don’t need to be soaked in salted water to get the sand out.
In a pan of approximately 25 cm to 35 cm. Make the sofrito, or fried base by adding the oil and saute the onion and pepper until the onion is translucent. Add the garlic and half the parsley and saute for a couple of minutes. Season the “sofrito”. Add the rice followed by the stock, making sure it is seasoned but not too salty.
Cook the rice for 10-12 minutes checking to make sure the rice is cooked through. Add more stock or hot water if too much liquid has evaporated and the rice is not cooked. Meanwhile in a medium size pot (with a lid) you add the wine and the clams. Cover and bring to a boil until the clams are open approximately 3-4 minutes.
Pour the clams and juice over the rice and dust with the parsley. Serve with a bottle of txakoli!
#spanishfood #spanishrice #arrozconalmejas #ricewithclams #everydayspanish
#modernspanishfood

An easily achievable Spanish rice you can make on a weekday is this typical San Sebastián arroz con almejas or rice with clams. Decades ago I tasted this dish in a restaurant called Clery in the city when I lived in the Basque Country. I was captivated by its elegance and simplicity. So few ingredients, no dreaded socarrat(sorry Paella Valenciana) and no expensive saffron makes this my go to rice when I am able to get high quality clams. f you go to a fishmonger they will give you free parsley too!
Be aware that with rice you need to have more stock (or in a pinch water) in case the stock has evaporated and the rice is still not cooked.
This recipes feeds 4-6

Arroz con Almejas
1 onion, finely chopped
1 green pepper, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
A handful of parsley, finely chopped
300 g. Spanish rice (preferably Senia) or Carnaroli
1 litre of fish or shellfish stock plus extra in case
¼ cup white wine
1 kg. Clams

Clean the clams by rinsing them under water. Most cultivated clams don’t need to be soaked in salted water to get the sand out.
In a pan of approximately 25 cm to 35 cm. Make the sofrito, or fried base by adding the oil and saute the onion and pepper until the onion is translucent. Add the garlic and half the parsley and saute for a couple of minutes. Season the “sofrito”. Add the rice followed by the stock, making sure it is seasoned but not too salty.
Cook the rice for 10-12 minutes checking to make sure the rice is cooked through. Add more stock or hot water if too much liquid has evaporated and the rice is not cooked. Meanwhile in a medium size pot (with a lid) you add the wine and the clams. Cover and bring to a boil until the clams are open approximately 3-4 minutes.
Pour the clams and juice over the rice and dust with the parsley. Serve with a bottle of txakoli!
#spanishfood #spanishrice #arrozconalmejas #ricewithclams #everydayspanish
#modernspanishfood

Thanks to #ballymaloefestivaloffood @ballymaloe_grainstore especially to Eavanna and Bree for having us on the Cook the Books stage demoing recipes from our cookbook @blastabooks Soup!
photo 1: @joleencronin

Favorite moments:

- admiring the amazing art wall with @nickyhooper illustrations from the @blastabooks series
(to see sinigang, soondoobu, @woodcocksmokery cullen skink and passateli was a dream come true)
-I loved the Scoop and a Yarn tent where I got a chance to talk about the amazing Irish women food writers of the 40s, 50s and 60s based on an article I wrote for @scoopfoodmag @deelaffan
-drinking tons of coffees from @kokokinsale in the sun.
- @rorysfood demo was magical
-I laughed @mistereatgalway demo where he dished out on teenagers tastes. I won't feel I am to blame when my girls show questionable taste in food.
-It was lovely to see @shiviramoutar Caribbean food demo hosted by @darina_allen and accompanied by rum shots 😜
-The guys from @bahay_dub ❤️ made the most gorgeous kinilaw (a dish similar to Ceviche but dare I say it more delicious).
-And last but not least the present and future of Irish food @aishlingmoore @goldierestaurant did a fantastic demo using local shellfish and fish...

#ballymaloefestivaloffood #ballymaloe #spicebagspodcast #blastabooks #blastabookssoup #deelaffan #blancavalencia #sinigang #irishpodcast #irishfoodpodcast

Thanks to #ballymaloefestivaloffood @ballymaloe_grainstore especially to Eavanna and Bree for having us on the Cook the Books stage demoing recipes from our cookbook @blastabooks Soup!
photo 1: @joleencronin

Favorite moments:

- admiring the amazing art wall with @nickyhooper illustrations from the @blastabooks series
(to see sinigang, soondoobu, @woodcocksmokery cullen skink and passateli was a dream come true)
-I loved the Scoop and a Yarn tent where I got a chance to talk about the amazing Irish women food writers of the 40s, 50s and 60s based on an article I wrote for @scoopfoodmag @deelaffan
-drinking tons of coffees from @kokokinsale in the sun.
- @rorysfood demo was magical
-I laughed @mistereatgalway demo where he dished out on teenagers tastes. I won't feel I am to blame when my girls show questionable taste in food.
-It was lovely to see @shiviramoutar Caribbean food demo hosted by @darina_allen and accompanied by rum shots 😜
-The guys from @bahay_dub ❤️ made the most gorgeous kinilaw (a dish similar to Ceviche but dare I say it more delicious).
-And last but not least the present and future of Irish food @aishlingmoore @goldierestaurant did a fantastic demo using local shellfish and fish...

#ballymaloefestivaloffood #ballymaloe #spicebagspodcast #blastabooks #blastabookssoup #deelaffan #blancavalencia #sinigang #irishpodcast #irishfoodpodcast

🎨🍽️ Exciting News! 🍽️🎨

Santina and I are thrilled to announce that we will be participating in the Beyond the Plate @beyondthepaleie festival! Curated by the multi-talented food writer, journalist, event creator @alidunworth the food stage will feature some of our favourite voices from across the Irish food and drink scene.
Join us to discuss our newest project @artplate_ie , which highlights the intersection of Irish food and art and to taste some nibbles and drinks inspired by our favourite artists. 🍀🇮🇪

Stay tuned for more details! 💚

Tickets available itsbeyondthepale.ie
Blanca photo: @melmullan

#ArtPlateIreland #sa #BeyondThePale #IrishFoodArt #summerfestival #CulinaryArt #beyondtheplate #IrishHeritage #FoodAndArt #festivalfun

🎨🍽️ Exciting News! 🍽️🎨

Santina and I are thrilled to announce that we will be participating in the Beyond the Plate @beyondthepaleie festival! Curated by the multi-talented food writer, journalist, event creator @alidunworth the food stage will feature some of our favourite voices from across the Irish food and drink scene.
Join us to discuss our newest project @artplate_ie , which highlights the intersection of Irish food and art and to taste some nibbles and drinks inspired by our favourite artists. 🍀🇮🇪

Stay tuned for more details! 💚

Tickets available itsbeyondthepale.ie
Blanca photo: @melmullan

#ArtPlateIreland #sa #BeyondThePale #IrishFoodArt #summerfestival #CulinaryArt #beyondtheplate #IrishHeritage #FoodAndArt #festivalfun

Looking forward to wonderful Ballymaloe Festival of Food. @deelaffan @jiemeimeichin and I will be making Filipino sinigang, a sour and silky soup with shrimp from and my favourite glamorous gazpacho and the original vegetable smoothie.

Illustration @nickyhooper 🔥

#Repost @ballymaloe_grainstore with @use.repost
・・・
Celebrate the stories simmering within a bowl of soup at the #BallymaloeFestivalofFood on Sunday, 19th May at 11:15am.

This cooking demonstration features the talented trio from Blasta Books: Blanca Valencia, Dee Laffan and Mei Chin. Each recipe from their book “Soup” is more than just a meal; it’s a memory, infused with personal stories and portraits of an international community that has found a home in Ireland. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how soup can be both a simple dish and a profound expression of heritage and heart. “Soup is the stock from which we come.”

Secure your spot now. Link to tickets in bio. #linkinbio
Tickets can also be purchased at the event.

@deelaffan @spicebagspod @blancsvalencia @jiemeimeichin
@ballymaloecookeryschool @ballymaloefoods @cullyandsully
@kerrygoldirl @leo_south_cork @pure_cork @corkcountycouncil @bordbia

Looking forward to wonderful Ballymaloe Festival of Food. @deelaffan @jiemeimeichin and I will be making Filipino sinigang, a sour and silky soup with shrimp from and my favourite glamorous gazpacho and the original vegetable smoothie.

Illustration @nickyhooper 🔥

#Repost @ballymaloe_grainstore with @use.repost
・・・
Celebrate the stories simmering within a bowl of soup at the #BallymaloeFestivalofFood on Sunday, 19th May at 11:15am.

This cooking demonstration features the talented trio from Blasta Books: Blanca Valencia, Dee Laffan and Mei Chin. Each recipe from their book “Soup” is more than just a meal; it’s a memory, infused with personal stories and portraits of an international community that has found a home in Ireland. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how soup can be both a simple dish and a profound expression of heritage and heart. “Soup is the stock from which we come.”

Secure your spot now. Link to tickets in bio. #linkinbio
Tickets can also be purchased at the event.

@deelaffan @spicebagspod @blancsvalencia @jiemeimeichin
@ballymaloecookeryschool @ballymaloefoods @cullyandsully
@kerrygoldirl @leo_south_cork @pure_cork @corkcountycouncil @bordbia

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Follow me on Instagram

@blancsvalencia

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