In 1992, the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) Arròs del Delta de l’Ebre was established, gaining worldwide recognition for its uniqueness and exceptional quality. The designation includes six rice varieties — bahía, bomba, fonsa, montsianell, sènia, and tebre — cultivated exclusively in the fertile lands of L'Aldea, L'Ampolla, Amposta, Camarles, Deltebre, La Ràpita, and Sant Jaume d’Enveja, in the heart of the Ebro Delta. Grown in a landscape shaped by the meeting of river and sea, Ebro Delta rice is characterised by its semi-long, round grain, and its remarkable ability to absorb flavours, making it ideal for a wide range of traditional dishes. Its quality is so exceptional that it is sold exclusively in the extra category, the highest classification. From Sea to Soil: Catalonia’s Rice Recipes Catalan cuisine has a deep-rooted connection to rice, with recipes passed down through generations and closely linked to the rhythms of the land and sea. Dishes like arròs a banda, cooked with fish stock and potatoes, or rice with cabbage, beans, and turnips, reflect the region’s rich agricultural and coastal traditions. In the Delta, where culinary heritage and biodiversity go hand in hand, you’ll find signature dishes such as bomba rice cooked with mantis shrimp, cuttlefish, and pepper — a blend of land and sea on a plate. Another favourite is the mixed paella, which combines chicken, rabbit, pork, prawns, crab, and sea snails, resulting in a dish as bold and complex as the landscape it comes from. No meal is complete without dessert: Arròs amb Llet (rice pudding), slow-cooked with cinnamon and lemon zest, and the lesser-known but delicious chocolate rice, are both beloved by locals. Rice Festivals: A Living Tradition The Rice Planting Festivals, held between May and June, invite visitors to experience the beginning of the cycle — when locals in traditional clothing sow the fields by hand, just as their ancestors did. The Harvesting Festivals in September close the season with demonstrations of artisanal techniques, including the use of wooden carts and sickles, offering a glimpse into the past and a tribute to the people who have kept this culture alive. These festivals are more than just a celebration of agriculture — they are a vibrant expression of identity, community, and sustainability. Whether you’re a food lover, a cultural explorer, or simply looking for a meaningful experience, a visit to the Ebro Delta during rice season is a feast for the senses.