Why Croquetas deserves more attention

Croquetas rarely gets the international recognition it deserves. The deeply aromatic complexity is genuine, not simple, and the technique involved in using smoked paprika correctly takes real skill.

Spanish eating culture centres on long social meals rather than quick eating. I encountered it first in a Sunday family paella and that context helped me understand it properly. Rioja red wine is the natural accompaniment and the combination makes the case for the dish. If you haven't explored this cuisine seriously, Croquetas is the dish to start with.