Inspired in Madrid Spain

BANG…CRASH…!

Blast, it was the second time today that my nose had got me into trouble…the beautiful aroma, a sweet yet savoury blend of paprika and spices melded with the slight saltiness of premium tender pork, hadn’t saved me from walking straight into Raul’s stall.

Raul seemed a little perplexed at first, yet he was clearly a man of discernment. It only took a few minutes for us to begin sharing our love of food and exciting flavours.

And his Iberian sliced salami really was an inspiration; my first taste of that air cured, string dried chorizo was a sensory experience I had not experienced before, and I simply had to bring the flavour home with me.

I sat for what seemed like an age reading the jottings in my trusty notebook, and I felt an elation and a modicum of relief that I had captured the essence of what would become Mr Filbert’s Chorizo Snack Salami.

My journey to the San Miguel food market was the culmination of two weeks of travels, with just me, my nose of course, and my trusty notebook.

I’d set off, like I so often had in the past, with my unerring quest of capturing another special flavour that I’d feel proud enough about to add to my growing collection of naturally delicious snacks. Little did I know that my nose would lead me literally straight to Raul’s stall and the start of Mr Filbert’s Chorizo Snack Salami!

I may have left with a sore head but it was teamed with a full belly and a head brimming with excitement to bring this recipe to life.

While I could have spent months roaming the markets of Madrid and devouring every scent and taste of the incredible cuisine on show in the myriad of stalls there, I couldn’t deny that adventure was calling and I knew this was only the start.

I wonder where my nose and notebook will take me next…?!