The Spanish love desserts. If you've ever visited Spain, you know this because of the number of pastry shops you pass! Every block seems to have several pastelerias displaying mouth-watering cakes, pastries and sweet breads. Brazo de Gitano, or "Gypsy's Arm" is a light spongy cake rolled up with whipped cream and jam inside, then drizzled with warm chocolate sauce. It's not difficult to make and is a popular dessert in Spanish households.

• Brazo de Gitano Cake Covered in Chocolate

_{Photo © Lisa Sierra, licensed to About.com, Inc.}

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This tasty lamb stew recipe originates from the region of Extremadura in western Spain, bordering on Portugal. First, the lamb is cooked in wine, onions and carrots. Then, a puree of roasted red pepper and garlic is mixed in to create a thick red, rich sauce. Serve with white rice and you have a superb main course for winter.

• Extremaduran Lamb Stew with Rice – Caldereta Extremena de Cordero con Arroz

_{Photo © Lisa Sierra, licensed to About.com, Inc.}

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It's January and most of us are looking for ways to lose those extra pounds we packed on during the holidays, cutting back, but some of us don't want to give up dessert all together. So, why not try making a simple Spanish dessert - Baked Apples with Licor 43, or in Spanish, Manzanas Asadas con Licor 43? Core apples, add a touch of sugar and a bit of liqueur, then bake for 45 minutes to an hour.

• Baked Apples with Licor 43 – Manzanas Asadas con Licor 43
• Licor 43 - Spanish Liqueur

_{Photo © Lisa Sierra, licensed to About.com, Inc.}

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The Moors arrived in Spain in 711 AD, bringing their culture and cuisine with them, staying for the next 800 years. The Moorish culinary influence on the Spanish cuisine was strong. Moorish food, like this lamb recipe is full of flavor as well as surprises - combining tender lamb and sauteed onions with almonds, raisins and a bit of sherry. Serve with rice or couscous. Try this simple main course in the winter... or any time of year.

• Arab-Style Lamb Recipe - Cordero Moruno

_{Photo © Lisa Sierra, licensed to About.com, Inc.}

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