In the mood to discover some new and exciting cuisine? Head on over to Andorra, which is one of the most popular skiing destinations in Europe. Now is the perfect time to visit the country since Andorra just recently approved a new visa-free entry policy for citizens from 65 countries as a way to attract more tourists. Andorra welcomes around 8 million visitors every year, and while most people go there to engage in winter sports or do some duty-free shopping, those who have been there also rave about the food as this destination has a lot of sumptuous eats, both savory and sweet. From a rich stew laden with different kinds of meat to a creamy and luscious dessert, here’s a guide to traditional Andorran food, and the best places to find them in the country.
Escudella
Andorra has the distinction of being one of the smallest countries in Europe. Nestled between Spain and France in the Pyrenees mountain range, it’s an easily accessible destination for road trippers. If you want to start your holiday in a stress-free manner though, it’s recommended to fly there, especially during the winter season. Most tourists choose to transfer from Barcelona at the Barcelona- El Prat airport if they’re coming from an international destination. Once you get to Andorra, consider renting a vehicle so you can go on a foodie journey while going around town.
If you’re there for the winter holidays, try some of their traditional stews to warm you after a day of hitting the slopes. One of their best stews is called Escudella, a dish that features chicken, oxtail, bacon, sausage, beef shank, and other meats along with veggies such as cabbage, potatoes, chickpeans, and white beans. The meats are boiled with aromatics for two hours until they become tender, and then the veggies are added to it, along with some pasta or rice. It takes about three hours to prepare this dish, but it’s worth the wait since you’ll get to enjoy a delicious brothy stew that’s packed with flavor.
The locals make different versions of this dish, depending on what types of meats they have, and it’s absolutely recommended to eat at a local’s house if you’re invited to eat Escudella for dinner. However, you can also have this stew at Borda d’Erts, which is a popular restaurant famous for serving traditional comfort food. If you’re at La Massana, head to Borda Eulari for their famous Escudella, but note that they require guests to make a reservation at least 48 hours before going there.
Trinxat
If you’re a potato fan, then make it your priority to have some Trinxat while you’re in Andorra. This dish is quite simple, comforting, and easy to make, and it can be eaten as an appetizer or as tapas. Trinxat is made by mashing boiled kale or cabbage and about a kilo of boiled potatoes together. The mixture is seasoned with salt and pepper, then fried in olive oil until it’s golden and crispy on the outside. It can be served family-style like a big potato pancake and topped with some crispy bacon, or heaped onto lettuce leaves to make single servings.
You can have some Trinxat at Can Manel in Andorra la Vella– don’t forget to order some wine from their extensive wine list to go with your dish. The dish can also be found at the Borda L’Era del Rossell in Canillo, where you can have it with some of the most authentic Spanish and French dishes in Andorra.
Cargols a la Llauna
Adventurous eaters are in for a treat as Andorra is home to lots of dishes that are truly one-of-a-kind, such as Cargols a la Llauna. The main ingredient of this traditional recipe is land snails, and they should be cleaned while they’re dry to preserve their flavor and texture. Next, they’re placed face up on a metal tray with salt, and more salt is sprinkled on the snails, along with some olive oil and pepper before they’re cooked on an open flame for about 10 minutes. Cargols a la Llauna can be eaten by itself, or with a dipping sauce called aioli, which is made with garlic and olive oil.
For the best take on Cargols a la Llauna, visit Can Jovi restaurant in Andorra la Vella, or the Raco D’en Josep Restaurante which is in the same area. The latter offers a variety of seafood dishes, so you can have your fill of cargols then enjoy some fish stew or fresh oysters right after.
Crema Andorrana
Got a hankering for something sweet? Indulge your sweet tooth with a serving of Crema Andorrana. This dish is Andorra’s take on the classic creme brulee, but instead of having a sugar top, this dessert is made more decadent with a thick helping of whipped cream or meringue. Crema Andorrana is served in almost every quality restaurant, cafe, and tavern in the country, but if you want the best, have it at Borda Xicoeis in La Massana, Eric Marty restaurant in Andorra la Vella, or Restaurant Lydia in Pal.
Andorra is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts and foodies. Try these traditional dishes when you’re in Andorra to satisfy your cravings, and have an unforgettable gastronomic experience while exploring this wonderful country.