Calçotada

For many Catalans time from November until April is just perfect for Calçotada. It is a party where locals enjoy “calçots”. Calçot is a variety of onions. Catalans also call it “Blanca gran tardana”. The onions are actually barbecued. Do not worry about the burnt parts. You just peel away the outer layer. Such onions are usually dipped in special sauce called “salvitxada”. This sauce is made from almonds, hazelnuts, tomatoes and olive oil.

Calçotada

Everything goes very well with some red wine and sparkling wine (“cava”). Catalans often drink their wine with a glass pitcher (container) called “porron”. It is hard to avoid stains on your shirt so do not be shy to put a bib.

Gran Festa de la Calçotada in Valls, Catalonia

Calçotada parties are often organized on traditional Catalan farm called “masia.” Calçot even has its own festival. “Gran Festa de la Calçotada” or “The Great Festival of Calçotada” is organized on the last Sunday of January in the Catalan town of Valls.