3 Supermarket Hauls in Valencia

Despite Spain being a very meat-centred country, Valencia seems to have embraced the plant-based movement with open arms. If you have a kitchen available for your use, there are loads of options to choose from at the supermarkets to keep you well fed. Check out three of my hauls at the local supermarkets and health food stores.

Mercadona Haul

All this for under 30 euro!

Mercadona is a family-owned #supermarket chain that originated in Valencia. While the owners are now billionaires, it seems that they take good care of employees by paying above the national average for grocery workers and providing on-going training. While the supermarket itself may not be as organised as some, and it does resemble a rabbit warren with multiple entries and exits (this can be disorienting!), there is still a lot on offer for vegans at a reasonable price. In this haul I've gone for things that I can cook up into a delicious and fulfilling meal as well as things to snack on during the day. Also, wine. Mock meats were available (hail #seitan!) if that's your thing as well as the 'go to' beans and lentils. Managed to find some vegan gnocchi and yoghurt too! Keep posted to see what I cook up with these!

Herbaroria de Navarro Haul

So this place is another nationwide chain that has Valencian roots and is like walking into a mini Wholefoods. Being a health store, it stocks a decent range of vitamins, cosmetics and gifts (or souvenirs!). It has a great range of specialty items including gluten free. This store does, however, sell animal products so be sure to read labels or ask the friendly staff. For specialty vegan items, this is the place to be and I was able to find the largest range of vegan cheeses and mock meats here.

Consum Haul

This was the first supermarket that I went into in Valencia and I was not impressed by the range. They are certainly make an effort to incorporate more with their eco range, but being one of the largest supermarket chains in Spain I did expect more. In saying that, I managed to find some accidentally vegan items for my last few days in Valencia. Combining these with some fresh ingredients and some of my leftover vegan cheese made for a decent meal.

Best for travellers on a budget: Mercadona and Consum as they are great for basics.

Best for health conscious travellers: Herbaroria de Navarro with a great range of healthful items.

Best for waste conscious travellers: Ecorganic ecomarket. I didn't go here but you can bring your own containers to buy basics and reduce packaging!

Check out what I made with these ingredients below...