Olé for Midnight Munchies! 9 Delicious Spanish Midnight Snacks

Spanish cuisine offers a wide range of flavours, which is why many people worldwide often crave their dishes. However, there are times when you desire a specific cuisine or dish at midnight, and you have to try sleeping if it’s not satisfied. Fortunately, Spain also has the same concept. So, if ever you’re in a city in Spain, you can expect a late-night snack when trolling around.

On the other hand, if you’re at home, and suddenly crave a Spanish dish, there are many snacks you can make your own in the comfort of your home. Here are some of the snacks you should try!

1. Churros con Chocolate

Whether it’s in the morning, afternoon, or midnight, you can never go wrong with churros. It’s one of the most popular Spanish snacks in the world. Although some may think that it’s a dessert because it’s sweet, and usually comes with hot chocolate dip, it’s traditionally considered as a snack and breakfast.

However, don’t let the traditional label keep you from eating it late at night. But if you think it’s a bit complicated to make, nowadays, you can buy frozen churros or have them delivered to your doorstep.

2. Tortilla Española

Tortilla española or Spanish omelette is mostly served as tapas. However, it can also be served as an appetiser or snack. In your case, since you’re craving Spanish cuisine for a midnight snack, it’s also a great choice since you only need a few ingredients.

Usually, tortilla española is made with eggs, potatoes, and onion cooked in olive oil. However, if you would like to add some ham, you may do so, especially if it’s Spanish ham (like Jamon Iberico or Serano).

3. Croquetas

Have you ever had croquetas? Usually, people find it hard to differentiate between the French and Spanish versions. The former uses potatoes as the base, while the latter uses bechamel.

As for the protein filling, Spanish usually include jamon, while French is usually done without other ingredients in the filling aside from the bechamel. Of course, both have breading and fried until golden brown.

4. Montaditos

Are you craving for a sandwich, but don’t want too much carbs? Try making montaditos! It’s an open-faced sandwich topped with various proteins, such as ham, chorizo, and cheese. It’s kind of like those sandwiches you see at cocktail events. Usually, it has a toothpick or a short stick in the middle to hold all the toppings.

When it comes to the toppings, you can put whatever you like, but for the authentic experience, you can use Spanish ham, and manchego cheese, and season it with olive oil or balsamic vinegar.

Meanwhile, if you still find it hard to imagine, maybe it’s time to visit a few Spanish restaurants to taste the real montaditos.

5. Patatas Bravas

Are you looking for another potato recipe? If you’ve been to Spanish restaurants before, you might’ve already tasted patatas bravas. It’s made of potatoes cut into medium cubes and fried in olive oil. Once it’s crispy on the outside and creamy inside, it’s served hot topped with either a creamy garlic aioli or a spicy tomato sauce, known as the bravas sauce.

6. Empanadas

There are many versions of empanadas around the world, but there’s something about the Spanish version that will satisfy your midnight cravings. It’s made of a sheet dough, and filled with fish, vegetables, or meat. If you’re planning to make some for yourself, you can make a huge batch, freeze them for later, and just reheat or bake whenever you’re craving it.

7. Pintxos

Pintxos, or pinchos, are kind of like the typical tapas, but these are often served in a skewer. There are many versions of pintxos, but one recipe has caught the eye of many Spaniards, the Pintxos Gilda. It’s made of anchovies in brine, green peppers in vinegar, and green olives served in a skewer. It’s a perfect pair for any drink you like, even non-alcoholic drinks.

8. Queso Manchego

Do you have some leftover Spanish wine in your fridge? It’s a perfect pair with Manchego cheese. On the other hand, if you prefer a simple grilled cheese, there’s no reason why you should use manchego cheese for it. Although it’s a semi-hard type of cheese, it goes well with crusty bread, some butter, and a griller.

9. Jamón Ibérico

Another sandwich idea is with Jamón Ibérico. If you have some lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, dressing, and slices of crusty bread, all you need to add is Jamón Ibérico, and you can now enjoy your midnight with the taste of Spanish delicacy. And if you have both, you can use Manchego cheese and Jamón Ibérico in one sandwich.

Final Thoughts

Spain is known for its rich culture and cuisine. Even if you’ve been to Spain or have tried a few Spanish restaurants, there’s something about its cuisine that can make you crave, especially at midnight when every store’s about to close. Fortunately, you can easily whip some snacks even if you’re at home.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Aliana Baraquio is a web content writer who also loves cooking dishes from different countries. If you want to experience a Barcelona-style restaurant that serves high-quality food, and a modern, contemporary, fresh feel from the south of Europe, visit TAST Catala Spanish Restaurant.