Spain is one of the largest producers of olive oil in the world so it is a given that many of its dishes use it either as a base for cooking, or as a flavor accent for finished dishes.
Terraza Martinez in Bonifacio Global City has paired up with Doña Elena to offer a 4-course menu that features the different ways olive oil can be used in a series of dishes that highlights fresh Spanish flavors.
A native of Valencia, Spain, Terraza Martinez’s executive chef and founder Luis Martinez remains true to his roots. Chef Luis considers every meal as an expression of passion and love, and superior olive oil is a vital ingredient in his repertoire. “I truly believe that we are what we eat and olive oil is the healthiest of all. Other than the health benefits, olive oil’s pleasant taste, smell, and texture that enhances all the flavors of a good recipe, make my type of cuisine revolve around the product. Everything is based on that, on the absolute respect that I have for the product.” Chef Luis emphasized. “On the other hand, using good-quality olive oil reminds me of my childhood wherein my breakfasts were based on a simple toast with extra virgin olive oil and salt.”
The culinary journey begins with Gazpacho, crafted “Terraza Martinez Style.” A traditional cold soup made from blended Doña Elena Pure Olive Oil and canned diced tomatoes, the recipe is taken up a notch with sauteed garlic prawns, tomato tartar, crispy capers, croutons, and Doña Elena anchovies.
The second course is Cured Snapper Carpaccio. The dish consists of thinly sliced snapper fish, marinated in Doña Elena Extra Virgin Olive Oil, crushed tomato, fried capers, and lime zest. The dish is served with rosemary crackers that add a crunchy contrast. Doña Elena’s canned tomatoes and capers also add some acidity and saltiness to balance the dish.
Glazed and charcoal-grilled, the Presa Iberica de Cerdo is a hearty pork dish, served with truffle mashed potato, olive oil caramelized shallots, wild fresh mushrooms, and demi-glacé sauce. Doña Elena Pure Olive Oil is used to caramelize the shallots and to drizzle over the mashed potato, adding a nutty and buttery note to the dish.
The Manchego Cheesecake ends the meal. The use of Doña Elena Pomace Olive Oil helps create a smooth texture with a faint wisp of flavor in the background. The cheesecake is also topped with blueberry jelly and mango slices that add some sweetness and juicy flavor, for a fresh spin on this well-loved dessert.
Chef Luis Martinez and Doña Elena invite everyone to try the Doña Elena special menu at Terraza Martinez and experience soulful Spanish cuisine. “The special menu we created for Doña Elena is a refreshing and simple menu that showcases the Mediterranean style of cooking using Doña Elena products. We use fresh fish, meat, and vegetables that are lightly cooked to preserve their natural flavors. It’s a perfect menu for enjoying with friends and family in a cozy and elegant atmosphere.