Sliced serrano ham 100g

This simple recipe carries an explosion of flavor. It makes a great tapa or starter when you are entertaining friends or family as you can leave it hot in the oven until you need it.

Clams, garlic, paprika, jamón and wine… what could be more irresistible? One of the very few dishes that takes longer in eating it than to cook it. And don’t forget the bread!

If you want to bring any seafood paella or dish to the next level, there isn’t a shortcut for it, you need to master this technique.

Made with the leftovers from the “cocido” stew, it contains a lot of different meats and chickpeas, but really it is the broth that results from the simmer of all those ingredients what gives this dish it’s distinctive flavour which is finished in the oven.

These deep-fried béchamel balls were sent from heaven to make us mortals a bit happier. Croquetas are famous throughout Spain – customers rave about the taste and texture while those who make them know that the best things in life come at a price – yes, they are time-consuming to prepare.

This traditional Andalusian dish can be prepared in a snip and is ideal for chucking in whatever ingredients you happen to have in the fridge – plenty of veggies, a bit of ham (bacon or chorizo) if you wish and eggs. Just a few staples thrown together.

For this recipe you can use any greens you like. I cook this at home very often as I always have some Jamon Serrano and Manchego cheese, a must in any fridge. Ideal as a tapa for 4 people.

Serves 4-5 as a tapa, preparation time: 20 minutes plus soaking, cooking time: 10 minutes