SEASONALITY – what better examplar than the Calçot, that odd onion-leek hybrid that sets every Catalan salivating during its all too brief spring harvest?
Thanks to Lunya in the Barton Arcade we’ve developed the taste for this chargrilled veg, too. Hence a packed out Calçotada festival there on Sunday, March 15. Tickets are £34.96 and advance booking is recommended via their website. You can also in the week building up buy your own bundle from the deli to try and replicate the magic at home. But act swiftly as supplies will fly out the door.
Calçots are traditionally charred over flames until soft and sweet on the inside, with a delightful smoky flavour. These are then served wrapped in newspape and eaten with the hands – picked up, peeled and dipped in romesco sauce (almonds, roasted peppers, olive oil & sherry vinegar). It is all rather messy, and quite delicious.
At Lunya’s Calçotada this homage was followed traditionally by a big plate of char-grillee butifarra, lamb chops, chicken with rosemary, garlic and lemon and patatas bravas, followed by crema catalana and fresh oranges. Accompany it all with lashings of wine, drunk from a traditional poron. Full menu here.
Lunya, Barton Arcade, Deansgate, Manchester, M3 2BB, 0161 413 3317.
