Granada is the best place to find gluten-free pizzas in Spain.

Los Naranjos de Melegis is a gastronomic gem of the first order. Jose Vallejo is its chef and treasures the culinary legacy of the region's citrus fruits as an integral part of his cuisine. Vallejo, who also runs Los Naranjos, has operated Lemon Food for months. This 'window' offers take-out food.

The gluten-free pizza was one of its specialties. It came about after much trial and error. Vallejo explains that the challenge was to make good, edible pizzas with gluten-free dough. It was a success that Vallejo won the Spanish Gourmet Pizza Championship's first prize, specifically in the category of gluten-free pizza. It is an important feature of my Los Naranjos kitchen, where all gluten-free food is available. He explains that he is a member of the Association of Celiacs to get first-hand information about the issue. "Celiacs who come to our meetings are in shock at the variety of options they have. He also jokes that he has had customers ask for gluten-free pizza since the award announcement. It's the same pizza you've been enjoying since Lemon Food opened! He exclaims. He says that this is the best sign. It is not important to notice the difference as it is pizza for everyone, and not just coeliacs.

Vallejo is excited about the award. He still dreams of representing Spain with the Spanish National Team in the World Cup in Parma in April 2023. The winners of these awards will go directly to the World Championship. Vallejo now wants to take the time to enjoy what he's accomplished, noting that the award is the result "of work, work, more work" and "a little luck," which is essential for all things in life. Jesus Marquina will lead the National Team. He is a multiple-time world champion.

Jose Vallejo explains that the base of the pizza is made from a mix of starches, flours and vegetable fibers. This "pizza of the tavern" is because it uses ingredients you would find in a tavern but presents them in a different manner. It is made with a tomato base and minced beef in a sauce. The dish has cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Cherry tomatoes and arugula are added to give it freshness. The sauce also contains a smooth jalapeno cream that adds a touch of spice. It also includes the Los Naranjos' great secret: the homemade puffed rice he takes everywhere he goes. It gives the pizza a unique touch. Although you might not expect it, it adds a crunch element to it. Lemon Food's gluten free pizzas can still be ordered at home, but Jose Vallejo is working to create a place where customers will be able to order them.

It's a great joy to win prizes for Granada chefs. I insist that 2022 is a great year for our province's gastronomic achievements. It is already. Pepa Suarez from D'Momento has been a finalist at a prestigious national cachopos contest. Pepita Burger Bar won another national contest for the award for Spain's most original hamburger with La Cachopina. Bar FM won the award for best bar service at the ABC Entremesas Awards.

Rosa Macias and Paco Martinez will be participating in the second edition Feminas, the II International Congress on Gastronomy, Women and the Rural Environment, which will take place in Asturias, May 16-18. Add up, and you're good to go!