Essential Spanish food vocabulary you need to know

Are you looking for an interesting way to expand your Spanish vocabulary? When you learn Spanish food vocabulary you will not only enhance your language skills but also feel motivated to try some of the most exotic and tasty dishes. One of the easiest ways to gain fluency in Spanish is to learn about the unique dishes and foods! 

Whether you are traveling to Spain or visiting a Spanish restaurant, forget about ordering your preferred dish in English. Feel confident that you can speak in Spanish with some of the most popular food vocabulary. 

SPANISH FOOD VOCABULARY YOU NEED TO KNOW 

When it comes to Spanish famous dishes, there are so many to mention, you will be spoiled for choice! Spain is known for its rich flavors, its colorful presentations, and its exotic blends. Learning Spanish food words is one of the easiest ways to improve your fluency in the language. Remember that “comida” means food in Spanish.

We take a look at the most popular Spanish dishes: 

• Paella 

Paella is one of the most well-recognized traditional dishes in the world and a must to add to your food vocabulary in Spanish. If you wish to try your hands at an authentic dish consider Valencia paella. You will recognize the use of “arroz bomba” (round rice) the most popular ingredient. 

• Gazpacho 

When you are learning Spanish food words, Gazpacho is a must! This traditional dish is made with the following ingredients: 

• Tomatoes – Tomates 
• Cucumber – Pepino 
• Peppers – Pimientos
• Bread – Pan
• Olive oil – Aceite de oliva

All ingredients are freshly sourced and blended together to create this hearty dish! 

• Chorizo  

One of the most popular Spanish meats is the pork sausage better known as Chorizo. This delicious meat is unique to Spain and includes ingredients such as: 

• Garlic – ajo 
• White wine – vino blanco 
• Paprika – pimentón 

There is simply no other sausage that is quite like chorizo so be sure to include it in your food list. 

ORDERING FOOD IN SPAIN 

Spanish food vocabulary is diverse and exotic. The next time you visit a restaurant, brushing up on your Spanish food words will give you the confidence you need to order your favorite dishes to perfection. 

Some examples of Spanish restaurant vocabulary include:

• Breakfast – El desayuno
• Lunch – La comida 
• Dinner – La cena 

When Ordering Drinks:

• Coffee – El café 
• Water (tap) – El agua del grifo 
• Red wine – El vino tinto 
• Tea – El té 
• Juice – El zumo 

When Ordering at a Restaurant (Restaurante) You Would Use the Following Terms: 

• I am a vegetarian – Soy vegetariana
• The menu – el menú
• Can you bring me the check, please – Tráigame la cuenta, por favor
• To order – pedir
• Table – mesa
• Cash – efectivo 

THE BEST SPANISH DRINK 

The best Spanish drink known for its refreshing fruity flavour is sangria. With a history dating back 2000 years, The Spanish added wine (vino) to the water to remove any bacteria in water and create a safer drink. 

LEARNING FOOD VOCABULARY TO IMPROVE YOUR SPANISH 

Spanish food vocabulary is easy and helps you understand much of the culture of the country. It is a great way to enhance your language skills. You could even try a few recipes to prepare your own dishes while practicing your new Spanish food words!

Now that you know the Spanish food vocabulary, discover the 20 most popular Spanish words used in English!

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