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Catalunya
Since ancient times, Catalunya has been at the crossroads of history,
and a port of entry for ideas from France, Italy and beyond, including
the latest culinary fashions. It has the country's most sophisticated
cooking, and the best documented, historically. But actual Catalan
cuisine was formalized only in the 19th century. Although each province
has its specialties, some dishes are found throughout Catalunya:
Escalivada, roasted eggplant and peppers, often accompanied by onions
and anchovies; Pà amb Tomàquet, toasted bread
rubbed with tomato, olive oil, and salt; and Esqueixada, a refreshing
salt cod salad. Barcelona, the most cosmopolitan of Spanish cities, has
always been at the forefront of international trends and its
restaurants are among Europe's finest. Tarragona, capital of the Costa
Daurada, was the first Roman city in Spain, and capital of Hispania
Citerior. The unforgettable Romesco sauce made with almonds, hazelnuts,
sweet dried peppers, tomatoes and garlic was created there. Travelers
to Girona province will be charmed by the rugged Costa Brava coastline
and seduced by the mix of flavors in its cuisine, such as Sea and
Mountain, chicken simmered with seafood, or duck stuffed with a mixture
of pears, turnips, apples, and olives. Catalunya is among Spain's
biggest wine producers; its wines have been renowned since Roman times.
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