At first glance, Michigan and Spain don’t seem to have much in common. After all, they’re an ocean apart, literally. One is known for ice fishing, while the other evokes images of sipping sangria by the Mediterranean. Michigan and Spain are vastly different, and it shows in the cuisine, too. However, there are also a couple of surprising connections when it comes to food. Let’s explore the fascinating gastronomy of these two vastly different worlds and what brings them together.
Spanish Cuisine Is Alive and Well in the Upper Peninsula
You don’t have to book flights to Madrid to experience the enticing flavors of Spain. The whole of Michigan, including the Upper Peninsula, has too many Spanish restaurants to count. Towns like Marquette and Escanaba have plenty of fusion cuisine options, more often than not including the famous tapas and other exciting Spanish dishes.
Head down to Detroit, and you’ll be met with hundreds of options, some of which are as authentic as can be. Gazpacho, patatas bravas, churros – whatever you’re craving, you’ll be able to find it. Thanks to Michigan’s cuisine being highly influenced by European traditions, including Spanish, you can enjoy these delicious meals even though you’re 4,000 miles away from the country of origin.
And what about the other way around? Well, cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia are home to numerous American-style eateries, and not just fast-food chains, but more authentic restaurants. From burger joints to classic diners, these spots are popular among both tourists seeking comfort food from back home and locals looking for a taste of something different.
Pork and Chicken Are Integral Ingredients in Both Cuisines
If you’ve ever been to Spain, you know that chorizo is basically inescapable. This iconic delicacy, made from chopped pork and pork fat, can be either sweet or spicy, depending on the seasoning. Pork is just as popular in the Upper Peninsula, and there’s a famous dish that’s somewhat similar – cudighi. It comes from Italian cuisine, sure, but it’s also made from pork and has an unforgettable blend of sweet and spicy.
Many dishes from both Spain and the Upper Peninsula are flexible enough to make with either chicken or pork. Take paella or pasty, for example. Paella, a rice-based dish originating from Valencia, can be combined with pork, chicken, and even seafood. The pasty, arguably the most iconic dish of the Upper Peninsula, can be made from beef, chicken, and pork – and there are even hamburger and pizza varieties.
Spanish cuisine might emphasize bolder flavors, while American dishes often lean towards simpler seasoning. Despite these differences, pork and chicken are celebrated as central ingredients. In both countries, they’re what brings people together around the dinner table!
Seafood Is a Huge Part of Both Cuisines
Cuisines were always significantly influenced by location, there’s no doubt about it. With the Upper Peninsula having around 1,700 miles of coastline with the Great Lakes and Spain boasting close to 5,000 miles of shoreline, it’s no surprise that seafood is big in both regions.
The Spanish and overall Mediterranean diet emphasizes light, flavorful preparations. Codfish is a pretty popular ingredient, as are clams and crustaceans. On the other hand, Michigan’s Great Lakes are a never-ending source of trout and whitefish, making them a common item on the menu, often served with hearty sides like fries or coleslaw. While different aquatic creatures are involved, smoked fish is considered a delicacy in both Spain and the Upper Peninsula – that’s one more thing that brings these regions together.
Wine Has a Special Place on the Table in Both Regions
With over 3 million acres of vineyards, Spain is the third-largest wine producer in the world, right after France and Italy. Spanish wines are known for their quality and versatility all across the world. While Michigan’s wine industry certainly can’t compete, it still shouldn’t be overlooked. Home to nearly 200 wineries, this state is the capital of a very interesting niche market – cool-climate winemaking. Therefore, whichever side of the Atlantic Ocean you find yourself on, some exceptional wine will be waiting for you.
Love for Good Food and Company Is Universal
Spain and the Upper Peninsula might be worlds apart, but one thing’s for sure – good food and gathering your loved ones around the table is universal. If you’ve got the chance to take a culinary journey in both regions, don’t miss it. Who knows, maybe you’ll find some other surprising similarities that will intrigue your taste buds!
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