Pa amb tomàquet
Barcelona, Spain
Pa amb tomàquet is toasted or crusty bread rubbed with ripe tomato and garlic, then finished with olive oil and salt. The tomato should moisten the surface without turning the bread soggy; the result is fresh, savory and slightly bitter from the raw garlic.
Why locals eat it
This is a Catalan table staple rather than a standalone recipe with one fixed presentation. It can accompany grilled meats, cheese or embotits, and its simplicity makes the quality of the bread, tomato and olive oil immediately noticeable.
Local tip
Rub the tomato yourself if it is served separately, and ask for garlic only if you enjoy its bite. It is often included with a meal, so check the menu before ordering extra.
Typically made with
Bread, Tomato, Garlic, Olive oil, Salt. Recipes vary — always check with the vendor if you have allergies.