Natcho Cheese

Growing up in Spain was a real treat for me, literally, as the food there is like in no other place. Christmas time in Spain spilled forth a plethora of exquisite traditional foods with Turron being the choice of dessert at every Spaniard’s table. A long standing tradition, Turron is the essence of Christmas, symbolizing culture, hope and Christianity.

Turron comes in a variety of textures, however they are all made from the same two basic ingredients, almonds and honey. The two most popular and widely distributed are Turron de Alicante, hard nougat with whole almonds, and Turron de Jijona, which is of a softer consistency made up primarily of almond paste. There are many theories as to the exact origins of Turron, however, most sources agree that it began as a recipe introduced by the Moors (Arabs) during their early occupancy of Spain. Turron is mentioned in historical Spanish documents dating as far back as the 1500’s, so its integration into Spanish life is well established. Source

The Moors occupancy in Spain from the 700’s to the 1400’s had a great cultural impact on Spain, as much of its architecture, food and even some customs were interchanged between the two nations. Turron is a perfect example of this deep rooted cultural mix, as it originated in Mediterranean lands rich in Almond trees. The Moors brought over the concept of Turron, however, the Spaniards changed the recipe around and personalized it into a more Hispanic flavor, like they did with much of the Moorish influences still apparent in today’s Spanish culture. Source

The story behind the changing of the Turron recipe is one of Hope for the Spanish people. It is said that in the 1700’s in Catalunya, during the colder months of the year the people were suffering from hunger due to food shortages. The only abundance in the royal food stores were Almonds and honey, due to their long shelf life. In Barcelona, an artisan called Pablo Turro, decided to start making Turron for the people, as it was rich in nutrition, it kept for a long time and supplies for the tasty treat were always abundant. So in a time of hunger and need, this delicious treat gave the people sustenance and hope until the warmer months came and the harvests came in. Source

Traditionally, Turron is mass produced between September and December to meet the demands at Christmas time. Turron is made primarily of almonds, a tree whose nut has many biblical references and symbolism in Christianity. The main religion in Spain, is Christianity, and Christmas time is of great importance, as it celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. The almond is referred to in the bible several times, with almond branches representing a symbol of the Virgin Birth of Jesus, which is celebrated during Christmas. Almonds are also seen in paintings depicted as a Mandorla, the glow encircling the baby Jesus and as a symbol of the Virgin Mary. Source

Turron is delicious, with the soft almond paste (Turron de Jijona) being my personal favorite. In Spain, Turron means so much more, as it tells a tale of the country’s heritage, of its peoples hope during times of scarcity and represents the celebration of Christmas. Turron is always present at my table during the holidays, and I recommend that next December, while doing your holiday shopping, be sure to pick up a bar of this tasty treat and try some for yourself.

Food is an integral part of my life, and of all the indulgences on earth, food, is my ultimate weakness. If such a phobia existed, mine would be fear of losing the ability to taste!

Food has tied all major aspects of my life together. Whether it be the massive feasts prepared during the holidays or the simple picnics I have enjoyed at the beach with my family, food is always there, just like a family member.

Much like Tita, in the novel “Like Water for Chocolate”, food is an outlet for me, a way to express myself creatively and emotionally to the ones I cook for. I have found that a good meal brings out the best in me and my family. Aside from the bliss I feel when treating my taste buds to the world’s palate of flavors, I love how food motivates me and my team of cooks to go above and beyond in our search for the ultimate recipe, the shopping for the supplies, and especially the connection I feel when I cook with others.

Cooking food and being complimented on my culinary skills is all good and fun, but the real adventure I find, is venturing into the diverse neighborhoods of New York City, in the quest for the ultimate meal. New York is the Mecca of diversity and there is never a dull moment, or meal I should say, to be found. Food has led me to neighborhoods I wouldn’t normally go to, and has opened new worlds of culture and experiences I wouldn’t have been exposed to, had it not been for my love of food.