University of Wisconsin–Madison

Spain: Madison Packard (Food in Alcalá de Henares)

This summer, I participated in a study abroad program in Alcalá de Henares, Spain. A smaller municipality in Madrid region, Alcalá is famous for “allegedly” (as the locals say) being the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes.

The food in Alcalá is very representative of the typical cuisine in Spain, which I was surprisingly unfamiliar with upon my arrival. Before arriving, I was familiar with paella, but that was about as far as my knowledge went when it came to the food here.

A white plate with a Spanish tortilla that is yellow in color and is in the shape of a triangle. Next to it is a diamond shaped bread loaf with scoring down the middle.
A delicious Spanish tortilla from Llanes, Spain!

During the first session of my program, I took a course about the gastronomy of Spain. This taught me about what I should expect for the coming weeks here in Alcalá. Not only did we learn about the food, we also went on two excursions to a local restaurant for cooking lessons. We made paella, tarta de Santiago, eggplant dip, meatballs, and so much more.

One new food that I have been introduced to that I would like to highlight is tortilla de patatas (potatoes). This dish is very common all throughout Spain. At first, I assumed it would be similar to a flour tortilla, but with potatoes mixed in. However, it was not what I had expected. Also known as Spanish tortilla, this dish traditionally includes beaten eggs, chopped up potatoes, and onions. It is a delicious and simple dish that is eaten for lunch or dinner here, and resembles a thick omelet in both appearance and flavor. I was surprised that eggs are not a breakfast food in Spain, but apparently that is one apparent cultural difference between Spain and the United States. I am very grateful to have learned how to make this dish, and I will be attempting the recipe once I get home.

A blonde woman wearing a red and white headscarf over the top of her head and a green short sleeve shirt smiles at the camera in front of trees and sunflowers.

Madison Packard

Hometown: Littleton, Colorado

Major: Sociology; Spanish

Program: CIEE Summer Language & Culture in Alcala

I chose my program because the city has a rich history, it is not too big, and I felt that I would have a unique and immersive experience here.  My goal is to develop my confidence in speaking Spanish, as well as gaining a better understanding and appreciation for an unfamiliar culture.  I’m looking forward to visiting as many museums as I can in Alcalá.