I’ve now been in Seville for about three weeks, and one of the best ways I’ve connected with the culture has been through its food. Here, food is more than just a meal — it’s a gateway into the city’s very soul. Every bite tells a story of tradition, community, and the Andalusian way of life. It truly proves the saying we have back home: “The quickest way to one’s heart is through the stomach.” Some of my favorite moments bonding with my host mom and new friends have happened around the table.

My daily breakfast.
From the moment I arrived, I’ve been enjoying Spanish food without reservation. Breakfasts are simple but perfect — fresh toasted bread topped with cheese and ham, or butter and jam, always paired with a comforting cup of café con leche. Lunch, the biggest meal of the day, is always homemade and usually served with a salad. One of my favorite dishes so far has been my host mom’s spaghetti carbonara — though her tortilla de patatas and stewed lentils are close contenders!

Homemade Spaghetti Carbonara.
Dinner is a lighter affair than lunch. Just last night, for example, we had a delicious Mediterranean focaccia topped with avocado, fresh vegetables, and turkey — a meal I wouldn’t mind having again. Trying all the different dishes my host mom prepares has been such a fun adventure. Even when I’m unsure about something new, I remind myself of my motto: “Don’t knock it until you try it!” And every time, I’m glad I did. She’s made us something different every single day, and I always look forward to discovering what’s next. I’m so grateful to her for sharing this part of her culture with me.

Best ice cream ever!
Of course, I can’t forget to mention the amazing ice cream my classmates and I have fallen in love with. Like everything else here, it’s fresh, flavorful, and simply delicious. In Seville, there’s always something new to taste — and something wonderful to enjoy.