When you walk through Astorga, you should try Cocido Maragato, a traditional Spanish meal from the Maragatería region of the province of León, where Astorga is located. It is a hearty, filling and flavoursome dish.
Primero Curso
The meal starts with a clear broth, Sopa de Fideos, flavoured with noodles. This is often served in small bowls as the first course.
Segundo Curso
The second course consists of chickpeas (garbanzos) cooked with vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, and cabbage.
Following the chickpeas, a selection of vegetables (verduras), including greens like kale or Swiss chard, is served.
Plato Principal
The centrepiece of Cocido Maragato is the meats (carnes). Various cuts of pork, beef, and chicken are boiled together with the stew, imparting their flavours to the broth and vegetables. Typical cuts include chorizo (spicy sausage), morcilla (blood sausage), pork ribs, and sometimes chicken or beef.
Postre
The meal concludes with a dessert (postre), often fresh fruit or a sweet pastry.
What makes Cocido Maragato unique is its serving style. Unlike other stews, where all ingredients are served together in a single bowl, Cocido Maragato is served in separate courses, with each component presented individually. This allows diners to fully appreciate the flavours and textures of each part of the meal.
Where to try Cocido Maragato?
Astorga, is well-known for its culinary specialties, particularly the traditional dish “Cocido Maragato.” This hearty stew is a must-try for visitors to the region. Here are five restaurants in Astorga where you can enjoy an authentic Cocido Maragato experience:
Casa Maragata
- Description: Casa Maragata is renowned for its traditional preparation of Cocido Maragato. The restaurant offers a cozy, rustic atmosphere that reflects the cultural heritage of the region.
- Address: Calle Padres Redentoristas, 16, 24700 Astorga, León, Spain
- Highlights: The restaurant is celebrated for its generous portions and authentic flavors, starting the meal with the meat, followed by chickpeas and vegetables, and ending with the broth.
Mesón Casa Maragata II
- Description: A sister restaurant to Casa Maragata, this establishment also specializes in Cocido Maragato. The decor and ambiance create a traditional dining experience.
- Address: Calle Santiago, 2, 24700 Astorga, León, Spain
- Highlights: Known for its friendly service and traditional cooking methods, Mesón Casa Maragata II is a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Restaurante La Peseta
https://restaurantelapeseta.com
- Description: La Peseta offers a refined take on traditional Maragato cuisine. The restaurant combines modern culinary techniques with classic recipes.
- Address: Calle Padres Redentoristas, 26, 24700 Astorga, León, Spain
- Highlights: The Cocido Maragato at La Peseta is served with attention to detail and high-quality ingredients, providing a slightly more upscale dining experience.
El Rincón del Arriero
- Description: This charming restaurant is known for its warm and inviting atmosphere. El Rincón del Arriero prides itself on serving hearty, home-cooked meals.
- Address: Plaza San Francisco, 5, 24700 Astorga, León, Spain
- Highlights: The Cocido Maragato here is prepared using traditional recipes handed down through generations, ensuring an authentic taste.
Hostería Casa Flor
- Description: Located just outside Astorga, Casa Flor is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy Cocido Maragato in a rural setting.
- Address: Carretera Madrid-Coruña, 306, 24718 Castrillo de los Polvazares, León, Spain
- Highlights: This hostería offers a classic Maragato dining experience in a quaint, countryside atmosphere, making it well worth the short trip from Astorga.
And don’t forget to check out TripAdvisor for other restaurant recommendations and reviews in Astorga!
Buen Camino!