The Spanish afternoon snack merienda
During our afternoon slump, we regularly reach for that chocolate bar and really do need that cup of coffee. While we may occasionally feel guilty about that sweet afternoon snack, for the Spanish it’s more than normal. They turned it into a true tradition called: la merienda.
A centuries-old tradition
La merienda literally means a snack. Merendar (having a snack) used to be something mainly children and older people did after their daily siesta. Nowadays, every age group takes part in this centuries-old tradition. This snack, usually around 4 o’clock, is meant to stave off hunger or cravings until dinner (which can be quite late in Spain). And preferably together with others. After all, the Spanish love the combination of food and conviviality.
Churros and doughnuts
But what exactly is a typical merienda? Well, churros con chocolate or rosquillas (doughnuts). Nowadays, you also see many sweet treats from other countries, such as traditional French petit fours. The merienda is not necessarily something edible; it can also be a drink. In Valencia, for example, they enjoy drinking horchata, while in Madrid they love granizados (slush puppies). For those who aren’t waiting for a sugar rush, a tapa or a pintxo is a good alternative.
We’re introducing la merienda in the newsroom already, so we can enjoy those pink cakes, stracciatella cupcakes and vegan Bounty cake without any guilt, accompanied by a golden milk. Adios!
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