The food and drink of this historic city reflect both traditional Spanish flavours and unique regional influences, making Zaragoza an excellent destination for food lovers seeking something distinct.

Traditional Dishes of Zaragoza and Aragon

Aragonese cuisine is marked by the use of local, high-quality ingredients sourced from the surrounding fertile plains, rivers, and mountains. Many of the region’s most beloved dishes feature meats, vegetables, and legumes, with an emphasis on simple, hearty meals. Here are some of the must-try foods when visiting Zaragoza:

1. Ternasco de Aragón (Aragonese Lamb)

Ternasco de Aragón is one of the region’s flagship dishes. This tender, young lamb is typically roasted or grilled and served with potatoes or vegetables. The meat, known for its delicate and rich flavour, is often seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and thyme, which highlights its natural taste. Many local restaurants will proudly feature this dish, often accompanied by a glass of wine from the region.

2. Chiretas

A traditional Aragonese dish, chiretas are sausages made from rice, meat (often lamb or pork), and a mixture of herbs and spices, all encased in lamb intestines. The dish hails from the rural heartlands of Aragon and is known for its rustic, comforting flavours. It’s often served alongside potatoes or stewed vegetables.

3. Migas

Migas is a simple yet satisfying dish made from leftover bread, which is fried with garlic, olive oil, and sometimes chorizo or other cured meats. It’s a hearty meal traditionally enjoyed by farmers and workers, perfect for cold weather. Its humble ingredients come together to create a deliciously comforting and rustic dish.

4. Borrajas

A vegetable unique to the region, borrajas are a type of borage that grows in the fertile soil of Aragon. The young shoots are commonly cooked in a light broth with chickpeas and served as a side dish or in stews. This dish is a perfect example of how Aragonese cuisine takes advantage of its local produce.

5. Pisto a la Aragonés

Pisto, a dish made from tomatoes, peppers, onions, and zucchini, is the Spanish equivalent of ratatouille. The Aragonese version is typically heartier, often incorporating chorizo or other meats, and is served with a fried egg on top. It’s a dish that highlights the region’s love for both vegetables and meats in its cooking.

6. Pollo al Chilindrón

This dish is made by braising chicken with a rich sauce of peppers, tomatoes, onions, and garlic. It’s a flavoursome and satisfying dish that is typically served with a side of potatoes or rice. The sauce is both tangy and savoury, and it’s often cooked slowly to allow the ingredients to blend together harmoniously.

Sweet Treats of Zaragoza

No visit to Zaragoza is complete without indulging in some of its sweet offerings. Aragonese desserts often feature rich, deep flavours, frequently incorporating nuts, chocolate, and honey.

1. Trenza de Almudévar

One of the most famous desserts in the region, the Trenza de Almudévar is a braided pastry made with a sweet dough and filled with almonds, sugar, and a touch of cinnamon. It’s a delectable treat, often enjoyed with coffee or as an afternoon snack. The pastry has a delicate texture and an aromatic sweetness that makes it a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

2. Fritas de Semana Santa

These deep-fried dough balls are a popular Easter treat in Zaragoza. Made from a dough similar to that of doughnuts, they are flavoured with aniseed and dusted with sugar. These fritas are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a perfect indulgence during the Easter period.

3. Tarta de Peras al Vino

This dessert consists of pears poached in red wine, often with added spices like cinnamon and cloves, served on a bed of almond pastry. The wine gives the pears a rich, deep flavour, while the almond base adds a nutty sweetness. It’s a luxurious dessert, perfect for special occasions.

Drinks of Zaragoza

The drink scene in Zaragoza reflects both its agricultural roots and its place in Spain’s larger wine-producing tradition. While Spain is renowned for its wines, the Aragon region, with its diverse climates, offers some lesser-known but highly regarded options. Along with wines, Aragon boasts a variety of regional drinks.

1. Vino de la Tierra de Aragón

Aragon produces some excellent wines, particularly in the regions of Cariñena and Somontano. The red wines made from Garnacha and Tempranillo grapes are bold and full-bodied, perfect for pairing with hearty dishes like Ternasco de Aragón. The region also produces whites and rosés, with crisp and refreshing profiles. For a unique taste of Aragon, try the local wines, which often come from family-owned wineries where traditional methods are cherished.

2. Calimocho

A popular drink throughout Spain, Calimocho is a simple combination of red wine and cola. It’s often served chilled and is a common choice at social gatherings and festivals, particularly during the hot summer months. In Zaragoza, it’s the perfect beverage to accompany casual meals or a night out with friends.

3. Zaragoza’s Cerveza

Spain is known for its beer, and Zaragoza is no exception. Locally brewed beers like Ambar, a pilsner-style lager, are widely available in the city. With its light and crisp profile, it pairs well with many local dishes. The city also has a vibrant craft beer scene, with microbreweries offering innovative brews that often reflect the regional tastes and ingredients.

4. Anís de Bujaraloz

Anís de Bujaraloz is a traditional aniseed liqueur that hails from the town of Bujaraloz, near Zaragoza. It’s a potent spirit, typically served as a digestif after a hearty meal. The sweet, aromatic flavour of the aniseed is refreshing and makes for a pleasant end to a traditional Aragonese feast.

Culinary Tourism in Zaragoza

The city also hosts various food festivals and events throughout the year, where visitors can sample local dishes, meet artisan producers, and learn about the culinary traditions of Aragon. With its unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, Zaragoza offers a food experience that is as memorable as it is delicious.