Spain’s Best-Kept Secret: The Gastronomy and Landscapes of Aragón

When people think of Spain, they often picture places like Barcelona, Madrid, or Andalusia. However, at the heart of the country lies a hidden gem: Aragón. With its rich culinary traditions and breathtaking landscapes, this autonomous community has much to offer—and its essence is beginning to reach Canada.

Aragonese Cuisine: Unique Flavors for the World

Aragón’s cuisine is one of Spain’s most authentic, built on high-quality local ingredients and traditional recipes passed down for generations. Some of its standout specialties include:

• Ternasco de Aragón – A young lamb, slow-roasted to perfection, tender, and full of flavor.
• Jamón de Teruel – Less famous than Iberian ham but equally exceptional in quality and taste.
• Migas Aragonesas – A humble yet delicious dish made with breadcrumbs, garlic, and chorizo.
• Trenza de Almudévar – A flaky pastry filled with nuts, perfect with coffee.
• Wines from Cariñena and Somontano – Emerging wine regions gaining international recognition.

In Canada, the trend toward artisanal and gourmet food opens a great opportunity for these Aragonese flavors to enter the market.

The Landscapes of Aragón: From the Pyrenees to the Monegros Desert

Aragón is a paradise for nature and history lovers. From the Pyrenees Mountains, offering some of Spain’s best hiking trails and ski resorts, to the Monegros Desert, a cinematic landscape that looks like another planet.

The region is also home to architectural marvels such as the Aljafería Palace in Zaragoza, a stunning example of Islamic art in Spain, and Loarre Castle, a medieval fortress that has been the backdrop for films and TV series.