Christmas Gastronomy in Atzeneta del Maestrat (Castellón)

Atzeneta del Maestrat is a village in the interior of the province of Castellón, located on a plain where the Montlleó River flows into the Rambla de la Viuda. A town of Arab origin, like almost all of the Maestrazgo, with an urbanisation style of its own that has given rise to a famous saying that describes it "Atzeneta, llarga i estreta."

Atzeneta del Maestrat has the charm of the Mediterranean landscapes of the Region of Valéncia, where the rainfed crops: vine, carob trees, old olive trees, and almond trees, plated to take advantage of the plains, coexist with forests of holm oaks, pines and oaks. Mountain landscapes of significant environmental and cultural value. Atzeneta is the gateway to the Peñagolosa massif.

The economy of Atzeneta del Maestrat is based mainly on agriculture, as well as some sawmill and brick manufacturing industry. Special mention deserves the production of sweets, nougat and artisanal marzipan made with the Marcona local almond, which cannot miss in any Christmas table, the marzipan of Atzeneta is unique.

Atzeneta del Maestrat currently belongs to the region of l'Alcalatén, but its territory was historically part of Maestrazgo. Maestrazgo is a land of lamb, with high prestige since medieval times, recognised as a mark of gastronomic quality, Cordero del Maestrazgo, is prepared in plenty of recipes; grilled, baked or in confit, alone or with garnish.

In Atzeneta del Maestrat Tombet is prepared following a particular recipe, "al Tombet." A stew in which the lamb meat, usually a chopped lamb leg, is simmered in a clay pot, mixed with vegetables, saffron, brandy and the liquid gold from these lands, olive oil. The result is a dish of great flavour with tender and juicy meat, a dish prepared for parties and celebrations in the homes of the whole region.

Atzeneta del Maestrat is a charming town, which invites us to learn about its history, its monuments, its landscape and its Christmas gastronomy. Come and discover it!