When it comes to classic Spanish cuisine, few dishes are as universally adored as the croqueta. This humble bite-sized delight combines creamy interiors with crispy exteriors, making it a staple on Spanish menus and a favorite at family gatherings. From Monday, May 12th to Sunday, May 18th, 2025, Torrevieja proudly hosts the fifth edition of Croqueteando por Torrevieja, a gastronomic celebration of all things croqueta.
The croqueta traces its roots back to France in the late 17th century, where a chef serving the court of Louis XIV reportedly created an early version of the dish. Known originally as "croquettes," they quickly became popular for their ability to transform leftover meat and vegetables into delicious, fried morsels.
It wasn’t long before croquettes crossed the Pyrenees into Spain. Here, the Spanish embraced and elevated the dish, infusing it with local flavors such as jamón serrano, bacalao (salt cod), and even wild mushrooms. Spanish croquetas became creamier than their French counterparts, primarily due to the heavy use of béchamel sauce rather than potatoes or ground meat as the filling base.
Croqueteando por Torrevieja transforms the town into a croqueta paradise. Participating bars and restaurants across the city will serve up specially created croquetas, each aiming to outdo the others in terms of flavor, creativity, and presentation.
Throughout the week, visitors can follow a "croqueta route", sampling a vast array of traditional and avant-garde varieties. The event also includes competitions such as the "Croquetas al Gusto" contest, where expert juries and the general public vote for the best croquetas of the festival.
1. Croquetas de Jamón (Ham Croquettes)
The undisputed king of croquetas, jamón croquettes are filled with a rich, creamy béchamel sauce studded with finely chopped jamón serrano. Their intense flavor and velvety texture make them a must-try for any newcomer.
2. Croquetas de Bacalao (Salt Cod Croquettes)
Particularly popular along the coastal regions, croquetas de bacalao use salted cod blended with béchamel, parsley, and a hint of garlic. They’re often lighter and slightly more savory than the meat versions.
3. Croquetas de Pollo (Chicken Croquettes)
Traditionally made using leftover roast chicken, these croquetas offer a comforting flavor profile that's loved by all ages. They're particularly popular in family homes across Spain.
This unique festival is more than just a culinary adventure; it’s a celebration of Spanish culture, community, and creativity. Whether you're a long-time resident, a tourist discovering Torrevieja for the first time, or a serious foodie in search of the next great flavor experience, Croqueteando por Torrevieja promises an unforgettable week of taste, tradition, and innovation.
So mark your calendars for May 12–18, 2025 — your perfect excuse to savor Spain’s most beloved comfort food in the beautiful seaside setting of Torrevieja.
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