Recipe for traditional Antequera Porra (Porra Antequerana)

Recipe for traditional Antequera Porra (Porra Antequerana)

In the South of Spain in the summer people make delicious cold soups, the most famous being gazpacho. Another is porra, and this recipe for traditional Antequera Porra (Porra Antequerana) is super simple to make.

Porra Antequerana is a traditional dish from the southern Spanish town of Antequera. Similar to gazpacho, Porra Antequerana is a cold soup made with a blend of fresh vegetables, bread, olive oil, and vinegar. However, while gazpacho is typically smooth and tangy, Porra Antequerana is softer in taste and offers a thicker substance, almost like a puree. It is traditionally served as a refreshing starter or as a light summer meal, accompanied by crusty bread or cured meats.

Despite its simplicity, Porra Antequerana has a rich history that dates back centuries, and it has been an integral part of the region’s culinary culture. Whether enjoyed at home or at a local restaurant, this delicious dish is sure to tantalize taste buds and satisfy hunger cravings on even the hottest days.

Ask for it in restaurants in Ronda and be pleasantly surprised, unless you accidentally ask for “Porro” (Note the last letter has changed from an “a” to an “o”). In which case you might receive a rather incredulous stare and the comment that in Spain “joints” (ahem, a soft smokable drug) aren’t normally served in restaurants :) …

Read more

Where to buy convent sweets and pastries in Ronda?

Where to buy convent sweets and pastries in Ronda?
Where to buy convent sweets and pastries in Ronda?

In Spain, many convents earn a living by selling handmade sweets, pastries, and confections. The recipes have been passed down through the centuries with some dating back to the times of the Romans and Moors. However, with fewer nuns and the closing of many convents, this tradition is at risk of being lost. So, Where to buy convent sweets and pastries in Ronda?

One of the convents preserving this ancient tradition is the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Merced in Ronda. The convent has a small bakery where visitors can purchase unique and delicious “Convent Sweets” while also supporting the nuns financially.

Every day, many people visit the Nuestra Señora de la Merced church and take photographs. However, they often continue on to other popular tourist destinations in Ronda, such as the Alameda gardens, bullring and Puente Nuevo As a result, they may miss out on a fascinating and hidden corner of daily life in Ronda.

Read more

Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Merced Ronda

Nuestra Señora de la Merced, Ronda

The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Merced is one of Ronda’s more curious churches, and is also a convent for the nuns and priests of the Discalced Carmelites of Ronda. Previously they resided in the Santa Cecilia church.

The term “Discalced Carmelites” refers to a branch of the Carmelite Order within the Catholic Church, known for their reform movement initiated by Saint Teresa of Avila and Saint John of the Cross in the 16th century. “Discalced” literally means “without shoes,” symbolizing their commitment to a life of poverty, simplicity, and strict adherence to the contemplative traditions of the order. This reform emphasized a return to the original spirit of the Carmelite hermits, focusing on prayer, community life, and austerity.

Where to buy convent sweets and pastries in Ronda?

La Merced is more correctly a “Basilica” since it is home to a holy relic. The “incorruptible hand of Saint Teresa of Avila” and the story behind this is in itself worth telling even if you never visit the church. (Although if you visit Ronda you’ll most certainly see the church as you pass by the Alameda gardens.)

This is also the place where you can try out the curious way of buying sweets and pastries from the nuns who reside here: https://rondatoday.com/where-to-buy-convent-sweets-and-pastries-in-ronda/

Read more