Traditional food & drink in Cantabria
Cantabria has 6 regional specialities worth seeking out in its heritage towns. Many carry a DOP or IGP protected-origin mark, which ties the product to a defined area and production method.
- Cocido montañés
- A hearty white-bean and cabbage stew with pork — the mountain region's signature dish.
- Sobao pasiego
- A rich, buttery sponge cake from the Pas valleys, baked in a square paper case.
- Quesada pasiega
- A light, dense baked cheesecake made with fresh curd, eggs, butter and lemon.
- Picón Bejes-Tresviso
- A fierce blue cheese matured in limestone caves above the Liébana valley, made from a blend of cow's, goat's and sheep's milk.
- Anchoas de Santoña
- Salt-cured Cantabrian anchovy fillets in olive oil, prized worldwide.
- Sidra
- The dry, still cider of Cantabria and neighbouring Asturias, traditionally poured from height.
Where to try it
20 heritage towns across Cantabria: