For students interested in cuisine, Valencia follows a rich Mediterranean style. On the savory side, Valencian dishes are known for containing fresh vegetables, different meats, seafood, spices and rice. One of their most commonly known dishes is Paella which originated in Valencia. On the sweeter side, Valencia has an abundance of fresh fruits which can be found in pastries and flatbreads.
- Frutas de Sant Donis
Craving something sweet? If so, this Valencian sweet is for you! Frutas de Sant Donis is a traditional Valencian dessert with colorful marzipans shaped like fruits. This dessert can usually be found on the 9th of October in Valencia. The 9th of October is “El Día de la Comunidad Valenciana,” which is an important local holiday in Valencia where many public celebrations are held to celebrate regional pride.
Want to learn more about the El Día de la Comunidad Valenciana? Click here
2. Buñuelos de calabaza
Missing a taste of America? Try Buñuelos de calabaza! These pumpkin fritters are a very popular dish in Valencia during the Fallas festival. Come with your friends and immerse yourself into the Valencia culture by attending the festival and picking up some yummy treats while you’re at it! They are a traditional Spanish dish made from pumpkin, flour and an abundance of spices. The origins of this dish can be traced way back to medieval Spain where it was served as a treat to the upper class.
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3. Horchata
In need of a refreshment as a study break? Valencia is the perfect spot to grab a Horchata! This is one of Spains most famous non-alcoholic drinks, it is sweet and creamy and will have you obsessed and wanting more! It is made from ground chufa nuts, water, cinnamon and sugar and is like nothing you’ve tasted before! In Valencia, this drink is commonly enjoyed with “fartons” which are long donut like pastries. The Chufa Sedge originally made its way to Spain during the Al-Andalus caliphate, but this plant has been used throughout history since Ancient Egyptians ruled.
Want to know more about Horchata and how to make it? Click here
4. Coques
This sweet or savory flatbread is the perfect pick me up in between classes! Run by a café to grab a Coques! This popular flatbread can be filled with all sorts of delicious nuts and candied fruit or even vegetables and anchovies! This recipe is so amazing because of the how versatile it can be. This dish can be served in a variety of ways making it the perfect dish for any occasion. This traditional Spanish flatbreads called the “Coques de Dacsa” are very similar to a Mexican tortilla. They are made with wheat flour, cornflour, olive oil and salt. This pastry is commonly seen in Valencia and Catalonia Spain. Look for cafes that serve “cocas” to try this delicious dish!
Want the recipe for the Coques de Dasca? Click here
5. Fartons
This tasty dish typically found in the Valencian town of Alboraia and commonly enjoyed with Horchata. This sweet pastry is glazed with a sweet sugar and is a must try. While you’re in the town of Alboraia it is important to grab a Horchata and a traditional Farton. This Spanish pastry is a staple in Valencia and the Spanish culture. Fartons are made from a yeasted dough with eggs, milk, sugar, oil and glazed with a sugary syrup.
Want the recipe for Fartons? Click here
6. Paella
Paella Valenciana one of Valencia’s most known dishes will have you obsessed and wanting more. This dish was originated in Valencia and is a stable in the Vlalencian culture. Paella can be found all over Valencia in different variations. There is Vlaencian Paella, seafood paella and mixed paella. These variations range from being made with chicken and rabbit to seafood and vegetables. This dish contains meat mixed with rice, flavorful spices and vegetables.
Want a recipe for Paella Valenciana? Click here