Here’s the translation into American English:
Julia Medrano, the veteran chef at the Hotel Villa de Almazán, is preparing to represent her town in the international final of the XVII Medieval Pinchos and Tapas Competition, which will be held from November 14 to 16. At 78 years old and with unbreakable energy, Medrano will participate with her creation ‘Life is a Carnival,’ a pincho that promises a unique fusion of flavors and emotions.
Known as the queen of the medieval pincho of Almazán, Medrano has already made a name for herself in the local contest, where she was awarded last March. “I always aim to win,” she humorously remarks, expressing the honor she feels in representing her town at this important event.
Her culinary proposal, ‘Life is a Carnival,’ combines a base of thin bread dough with lobster, complemented by cod al pilpil, tender onion sprouts, a wine emulsion, and local mushrooms. This mix of ingredients reflects both tradition and modernity, a key principle in the competition that restricts the use of products from after the discovery of America.
Medrano is an iconic figure in the gastronomy of Almazán and has participated in all editions of the local contest, totaling twenty-one participations and representing Almazán in five international finals held in different locations such as Coria and Hondarribia. Her dedication and passion for cooking have made her a symbol of the competition, where she has also been a pioneer in the Network of Medieval Cities and Towns.
“This may be my last time, or it may not,” Medrano jokes, who, despite her retirement, still has a burning desire to cook and represent her town. This year, in addition to competing, she will take on the role of host, welcoming six chefs from various locations in Spain and Portugal also vying for the title of Medieval Chef 2025.
Through her pincho, Medrano not only seeks to win the award, but she also aims to reaffirm Almazán’s position as the capital of medieval flavor. The queen of the pincho returns to the kitchen with the same passion and authenticity that have always characterized her, promising a memorable competition.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish