Today, we’re embarking on a culinary journey to explore the heart of Basque culture through its most iconic snack – Pintxos! These small snacks are a staple in pintxo bars, offering a unique twist to the familiar tapas bars spread across Spain.
If you’re planning a trip to San Sebastian, check out my travel guide Things to do in San Sebastian: Ultimate 3 Day Itinerary.
What Are Pintxos?
Pintxos (pronounced pin-choss) are not just food; they are a cultural phenomenon in the Basque Country. Traditionally, they are small pieces of bread topped with a variety of ingredients like local cheese with figs, ham with fried green peppers, cod croquettes, or pieces of Spanish omelette. But today, pintxos have evolved beyond bread-based snacks to include savoury treats on sticks or even in mini bowls.
The History of Pintxos
The story of pintxos goes back to the 1950s, originating in San Sebastian. It all began when rich visitors from Madrid sought small, delicious foods to accompany their drinks. From simple meats and cheeses, the concept of pintxos evolved as bartenders started experimenting with different combinations, creating the diverse array of pintxos we see today.
The “Gilda” is widely recognised as the first pintxo. Named after Rita Hayworth’s character in the 1946 film “Gilda,” this pintxo was invented in the 1940s in San Sebastian, in the Basque Country of Northern Spain.
The Gilda is a simple yet flavourful skewer that consists of an olive, a salted anchovy, and a pickled guindilla pepper. These ingredients are speared together on a cocktail stick. The Gilda is known for its combination of salty, spicy, and sour flavours, which harmonise perfectly with the local drinks, particularly the young, slightly sparkling white wine known as txakoli, commonly enjoyed in the Basque region.
The creation of the Gilda marked the beginning of the pintxo tradition in the Basque Country. Its popularity paved the way for the diverse and imaginative array of pintxos found in the region today. The Gilda’s enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and the way it encapsulates the essential flavours of Basque cuisine.
Pintxos vs. Tapas
While many associate Spain with tapas, pintxos are a distinct and more elaborate variant found in the Basque region. Unlike tapas, which often come free with a drink, pintxos are paid for separately, with prices usually ranging from one to three euros.
Pintxos Tasting Tours
One of the best ways to get stuck into Basque culture is through a tasting tour with a local guide! Here’s a few great ones to try:
- Guided Food Tour with Pintxo Tasting & Wines: Discover the flavours of San Sebastian on a foodie walking tour and try five pintxos paired with regional wines. Navigate the scenic Old Town and learn the history behind each turn from your guide.
- The Ultimate Pintxos and Wine Tour: Visit the best pintxos and wine bars in San Sebastian on an exclusive evening tour. Discover some of the best local, family-run eateries and hidden gems – the best way to taste San Sebastian!
- Market, Pintxos and Wine Tasting Tour: Enjoy the flavors of San Sebastian on a guided walking tour and learn about its rich culture. Visit a local market and other popular eateries to taste delicious pintxos and traditional drinks.
How to Order Pintxos
Now going into your first pinxto bar might seem daunting, but ordering pintxos, especially in San Sebastian and other parts of the Basque Country in Northern Spain, is a unique and enjoyable experience that reflects the region’s vibrant culinary culture. Here’s a simple guide on how to order pintxos:
- Find a Pintxo Bar: Start by choosing a pintxo bar. San Sebastian, for instance, is famous for its variety of pintxo bars. Each bar usually has its own specialty.
- Observe the Setup: In many pintxo bars, the pintxos are displayed on the counter. They are often served on small slices of bread and held together with a cocktail stick.
- Select Your Pintxos: You can either pick the pintxos yourself from the counter or order them from the menu. Some bars serve pintxos directly to customers, especially for hot or freshly made items.
- Ordering Drinks: Pintxos are usually enjoyed with a drink, such as the local txakoli wine, beer, or cider. You can order your drink from the bar staff.
- Eating in Moderation: Pintxos are typically small, so it’s common to have only one or two at a bar and then move on to another. This practice, known as a “pintxo crawl,” allows you to experience a variety of pintxos and the atmosphere of different bars.
A Social and Culinary Experience
Visiting pintxo bars in San Sebastian is not just about food; it’s a social ritual deeply embedded in Basque culture. It’s common to meet friends at a bar for pintxos and drinks, making it a perfect way to immerse oneself in the local lifestyle. The social aspect of pintxos is mirrored in the Basque cooking techniques, where preparing these small snacks is often a communal and joyous occasion.
Cooking and Crafting
Making pintxos is an art form. In San Sebastian, you can even join cooking classes to learn the intricacies of Basque cooking. The process involves careful preparation and a blend of flavours that are quintessentially Basque
If you’d like to try your hand at Basque cooking, I’d recommend booking this class where you’ll prepare four famous recipes.
The Evolution of Pintxos
Pintxos are continually evolving, with many Michelin-starred chefs in the Basque region now incorporating innovative flavours and ingredients, pushing the boundaries of traditional recipes. This evolution signifies the dynamic nature of Basque cuisine and its ability to adapt and modernise while maintaining its cultural roots.
Pintxos are more than just small snacks; they are a symbol of Basque culture and cuisine. Whether you’re in a bar in San Sebastian or any part of Northern Spain, experiencing pintxos is a must-do for anyone wanting to delve into the heart of Basque culinary traditions.
If you’re looking for what to eat in San Sebastian, look no further than pintxos!
