Eat Like Ushi

After walking through and exploring the township and park of Oviedo, it was time for food. I didn't have many recommendations for the area other than sidrerias. A few places seemed a little too touristy or multi-multi-language menus but eventually this place had some good elements - a very small outside dining area to enjoy the sunshine, a nice cheap menu del dia, and very pleasant waitresses.

My second tasting of fabada Asturiana was arguably better than the night before in the sidreria. It was also warm, hearty and delicious but the broth had a stronger cured pork flavour. Also there was a little more meat on the pork this time, whereas often it is pure fat. The Asturian chorizo and morcilla were soft and delicate.

The main of ternera guisado con patatinos was a reasonably tender beef stew, although a bit too heavy handed on the salt.

Finally the postre was a creamy yoghurt with strawberries and a nut crumble.

All this with wine, fizzy water for the wine, still water and bread too? A great price of €15 (including €3 extra for the beauty of being outside).

The first evening in Oviedo started at midnight. It's a good thing that's an acceptable dinner time in Spain and so several sidrerias along Calle Gascona were still open and serving.

We entered one at random that looked reasonable (to be honest they are all probably similar in the area) serving a variety of local dishes and seafoods and meats.

The first hit of cider poured by the waiter from a moderate height was quite tart and acidic. But it smoothed out after a few more. It was an interesting introduction to Asturian cider and the ritual.

My first taste of fabada Asturiana was a good one too. A large pot filled with beans, some smooth, soft chorizo and morcilla, a bit of fatty pork, all encased in a warming hearty salty stew. The excellent bread was perfect for mopping it up.

It isn't the healthiest dish (no vegetables), but it's good.