We had been wanting to try the Parrochas in Llanes for a long time, and once the season started, we got our chance. So we ordered them at Sidrería Restaurante El Puerto, one of the best restaurants in town to eat fresh fish.
Quick facts about Parrochas con jamón
- Also known as: Small Sardines with Ham
- Definition: Parrochas con jamón is a Spanish tapa made with small sardines and ham, usually fried, served hot, and known for its crispy texture.
- Where we ate it: Sidrería Restaurante El Puerto, Llanes
- Context: Small fried fish with ham is a very popular tapa in Asturias, especially Parrochas in Llanes.
- Served: hot
- Texture: crispy
- Flavour: savoury
- Pronunciation: pah-rroh-chahs kohn hah-mohn
- One-line verdict: One of the must-try tapas in Llanes
Why it’s worth ordering
You should get the Parrochas con jamón at Sidrería Restaurante El Puerto in Llanes because these small fish are typical for this Asturian town. They are also fun to eat, since they are fried, and the jamón goes very well with them.
Taste and texture
The Parrochas con jamón at Sidrería Restaurante El Puerto in Llanes are made with fresh fish, so there is no fishy taste, even if they are small sardines. The exterior is crispy, not even a bit oily, and the interior is delicate. The ham is also fried until crunchy, and adds a salty note to pair with the Parrochas.
How to order it
When the waiter comes to take your order, you simply say “Las Parrochas, por favor.”
Watch it
Quick decision guide
You’ll like it if: you like fried fish and savoury fried food.
If you want something similar: Boquerones fritos.
Frequently asked questions
Good Parrochas con jamón don’t taste fishy. The key is to use fresh fish and change the oil frequently.
They do this because Spaniards like the “Mar y Montana” mix (like Surf and Turf). Also, they want to add the savory flavor of the ham and its fat to the small sardines.
If you are planning a visit to this city, our Llanes city guide covers where to eat, what to see, and the best tapas bars in the city.
Llanes – City Guide
Where to eat, get a coffee and what to visit in Llanes – chosen by the National Geographic readers as the Best Beach Destination in Spain for 2026.
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