Chistorra

Chistorra is a delightful type of sausage that originates from regions such as Aragon, the Basque Country, and Navarre in Spain. Think of it as a cousin to chorizo but with its own unique twist. It’s made from minced pork or a mix of pork and beef, all wrapped in lamb tripe or, occasionally, a plastic casing. This sausage is renowned for its high fat content—around 70-80%—which lends it a rich and juicy texture.

What truly sets chistorra apart is its bold flavor, thanks to generous amounts of garlic, salt, and paprika. These ingredients not only imbue it with a punchy taste but also give it a striking red color. Chistorra can be enjoyed baked, fried, or grilled, making it a versatile addition to any meal. It is a popular choice for tapas—those delightful small Spanish dishes—or as a hearty accompaniment to other foods.

One of the first things you’ll notice about chistorra is its shape: it’s thinner and longer than your typical chorizo, usually around 40 cm but sometimes stretching up to a meter! In the Aragonese Pyrenees, you might come across some interesting variations. For instance, there's a version made from pork meat or a mix that includes lungs, pig head, and pancreas, known as berica. Over in the León province, you’ll find Chistorra de León, which leans more towards beef.

There are plenty of mouth-watering ways to enjoy chistorra. One popular dish is "huevos rotos con chistorra y patatas" which is essentially fried eggs and potatoes with chistorra. It’s often served fried whole or chopped into bite-sized pieces for tapas. If you’re a fan of sandwiches, you’ll love the "bocadillo de chistorra" a simple yet delicious chistorra sandwich. You can also find it in "croissant preñado" a croissant stuffed with chistorra, or mixed into a "tortilla con chistorra" which is an omelet with potatoes or eggs.

In San Sebastián, chistorra takes center stage on December 21st, the feast day of Thomas the Apostle. During this festive day, it’s traditionally served with talo, a type of Basque corn flatbread, and cider. Whether you’re enjoying it at a celebration or as part of a casual meal, chistorra is a flavorful treat that brings a taste of Spain to your plate.