Traditional Spanish Torrijas Recipe: The Star Dessert of Holy Week

The Sweet Tradition of Spanish Torrijas

Torrijas are more than just a dessert; they are a timeless tradition deeply rooted in Spanish culture, especially during Holy Week (Semana Santa). Often described as the Spanish version of French toast, they are a simple yet incredibly delicious treat made from basic ingredients: stale bread, milk, sugar, and spices.

The origins of torrijas are humble, often associated with a way to use up leftover bread and provide sustenance during a time of fasting. Today, they are a symbol of spring and celebration, filling homes with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and citrus.

The Perfect Torrijas Recipe

Making torrijas is a straightforward process that yields a wonderfully satisfying result. The secret lies in soaking the bread just long enough to make it tender without letting it fall apart.

Ingredients:

• Bread: Day-old, firm bread is best (like a loaf of rustic bread or a special loaf for torrijas).
• Milk: Whole milk for a richer flavor.
• Sugar: For sweetness.
• Cinnamon: Both in stick form for infusing the milk and ground for the final coating.
• Lemon or Orange Peel: To add a fresh, aromatic citrus note to the milk.
• Eggs: To create the classic eggy coating.
• Olive Oil: For frying. Traditionally, olive oil is used, giving them a unique flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Infuse the Milk: Heat the milk with sugar, a cinnamon stick, and the lemon or orange peel. Bring it to a gentle boil, then turn off the heat and let it cool.
2. Soak the Bread: Slice the bread and carefully submerge each slice in the infused milk until it’s soft but still holds its shape.
3. Fry: Dip the soaked bread slices in beaten egg and fry them in hot olive oil until golden brown on both sides.
4. Sugar & Cinnamon Coating: Once fried, place the torrijas on a paper towel to absorb excess oil, then coat them generously in a mixture of sugar and ground cinnamon.

The simplicity of this recipe is what makes it so beautiful. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dessert that carries centuries of tradition and flavor.

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Tips for the Best Torrijas

• Bread Choice: A sturdy loaf of bread is key. Avoid soft, fluffy bread as it will disintegrate when soaked.
• Frying Oil: While olive oil is traditional, you can also use a neutral oil like sunflower or a mix of olive oil and sunflower for a less intense flavor.
• Serving: Torrijas are best served warm, but they are also delicious at room temperature. Some people like to add a drizzle of honey (miel) or even a little syrup.

Whether you’re celebrating Holy Week or simply looking for a new delicious recipe, these Spanish torrijas are a fantastic choice. Enjoy!