The Canary Islands, located off the coast of Africa, are a popular holiday destination for sun-seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike. But aside from the beautiful beaches and volcanic landscapes, one of the highlights of visiting the Canary Islands is the food. The cuisine of these Spanish islands is a fusion of Spanish, African, and Latin American influences, resulting in a unique and flavorful culinary experience. In this article, we will dive into the top 5 dishes you must try when visiting the Canary Islands.
1. Papas Arrugadas con Mojo Picon (Canarian Potatoes with Spicy Sauce)
Arguably the most famous dish in the Canary Islands, papas arrugadas con mojo picon is a must-try for anyone visiting the islands. This dish consists of small, wrinkled potatoes boiled in salt water until they are tender and slightly crispy on the outside. They are then served with a spicy sauce known as mojo picon, which is made from garlic, chili peppers, cumin, vinegar, olive oil, and sometimes almonds or other nuts.
History and Significance
Papas arrugadas con mojo picon is considered to be the national dish of the Canary Islands, with roots dating back to the 16th century. The dish was originally created by Guanche, the indigenous people of the Canary Islands, who used local ingredients such as potatoes, peppers, and herbs to create a simple yet delicious meal. Over time, the recipe has evolved and become an integral part of Canarian cuisine, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
How to Make Papas Arrugadas con Mojo Picon
Making papas arrugadas con mojo picon may seem like a simple task, but it requires some key techniques to get the perfect result. The potatoes used in this dish are typically small, wrinkled and have a high starch content, which gives them their unique texture. These potatoes are boiled in heavily salted water until they are tender, and then drained and left to dry in their own steam, which results in the wrinkled appearance.
The spicy sauce, mojo picon, can be made in various ways, depending on your personal taste or the region of the Canary Islands you are visiting. Some recipes call for roasting the peppers before blending them with the other ingredients, while others use fresh peppers. It is also common to add nuts to the sauce for added texture and flavor. Once the sauce is prepared, it is traditionally served alongside the potatoes, either drizzled on top or as a dip.
Where to Try Papas Arrugadas con Mojo Picon
Papas arrugadas con mojo picon can be found in almost every restaurant in the Canary Islands, from casual local eateries to high-end restaurants. However, for an authentic and truly delicious experience, head to La Gomera, one of the smallest islands in the archipelago. Here, you will find many traditional restaurants serving up this iconic dish, including Restaurante Abrante, which offers stunning views of the island while you enjoy your meal.
2. Ropa Vieja (Old Clothes)
Don’t let the name fool you, this dish is anything but old or unappetizing. Ropa vieja, which literally translates to “old clothes,” is a savory stew made from shredded beef, vegetables, and spices. This hearty dish is a staple in Canarian households and is a favorite among locals for its comforting and flavorful qualities.
History and Significance
Ropa vieja has its roots in the Spanish colonization of the Canary Islands, where it was introduced by the sailors and merchants who settled on the islands. The dish is believed to have originated in the region of Andalusia, in southern Spain, and has since become a staple in Canarian cuisine. It is often served during special occasions, such as festivals or family gatherings, making it an important part of the local culture.
How to Make Ropa Vieja
The key to making a delicious ropa vieja lies in the slow-cooking process and the use of quality ingredients. The beef used in this dish is traditionally flank steak, which is cooked until it falls apart into tender shreds. The vegetables used can vary, but typically include onions, peppers, tomatoes, and sometimes carrots and potatoes. Various herbs and spices are also added, such as cumin, paprika, and bay leaves, to give the stew its distinctive flavor.
To make ropa vieja, the beef is first seared in a pan and then slowly braised in a pot with the vegetables, herbs, and spices. This allows the flavors to develop and creates a rich and hearty broth. The dish is typically served with rice or boiled potatoes, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Where to Try Ropa Vieja
Ropa vieja can be found in many traditional restaurants in the Canary Islands, but for a truly authentic experience, head to La Palma, known as “the green island” for its lush vegetation. Here, you will find many restaurants serving up this delicious stew, including Casa Goyo in the town of San Andrés y Sauces. This cozy restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a bowl of ropa vieja on a cool evening.
3. Conejo en Salmorejo (Rabbit in Salmorejo Sauce)
Conejo en salmorejo is a classic Canarian dish that consists of rabbit marinated in a spicy sauce and then slow-cooked until it is tender and flavorful. This dish is a favorite among locals, who often enjoy it as a Sunday family meal.
History and Significance
Conejo en salmorejo has its roots in the hunting tradition of the Canary Islands, where rabbits were plentiful and often used as a source of food. The marinade used to flavor the rabbit, known as “salmorejo,” was originally made with wine vinegar, spices, and bread, which acted as a thickening agent. Today, the recipe has evolved and often includes ingredients such as garlic, peppers, and tomato puree.
How to Make Conejo en Salmorejo
Making conejo en salmorejo requires some patience and a few key ingredients. The rabbit is first marinated in a mixture of wine vinegar, spices, and bread for at least 24 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse into the meat. The rabbit is then slow-cooked in a pot with the remaining marinade, along with additional ingredients such as peppers, garlic, and tomato puree. The long cooking time and the use of quality ingredients create a tender and flavorful dish that is sure to satisfy.
Where to Try Conejo en Salmorejo
Conejo en salmorejo can be found in many restaurants across the Canary Islands, but for an authentic experience, head to Tenerife, the largest island in the archipelago. Here, you will find many traditional restaurants serving up this delicious dish, such as Restaurante El Coto in the town of La Orotava. This quaint restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and serves up a variety of Canarian dishes, including their famous conejo en salmorejo.
4. Gofio (Roasted Corn Flour)
Gofio is a staple ingredient in Canarian cuisine and is used in many dishes on the islands. It is made from toasted maize or wheat flour and is a key element in creating the unique flavors of Canarian food.
History and Significance
Gofio has been a part of Canarian cuisine for centuries, with its origins dating back to the pre-Hispanic era. The Guanche, the indigenous people of the Canary Islands, used to make gofio from toasted barley or wheat and would mix it with water to create a simple yet nutritious meal. Today, gofio is still widely used in Canarian food, and its distinctive flavor is an essential part of many traditional dishes.
How to Make Gofio
Making gofio involves roasting maize or wheat grains until they are golden brown and then grinding them into a fine flour. This flour can then be used in various ways, such as mixing it with water to create a porridge-like dish or incorporating it into bread or other baked goods. It can also be added to stews or soups to thicken them and add a nutty flavor.
Where to Try Gofio
Gofio is readily available in supermarkets and local markets throughout the Canary Islands, making it easy to bring home and experiment with in your own cooking. However, for a true taste of this staple ingredient, head to Gran Canaria, where you will find many bakeries and restaurants serving up traditional dishes made with gofio. One popular spot is Restaurante El Roque in the town of Telde, where you can try their delicious gofio escaldado, a traditional dish made with gofio, fish and vegetables.
5. Bienmesabe (Almond Cream Dessert)
No meal in the Canary Islands is complete without a sweet treat to finish it off. And when it comes to desserts, bienmesabe is a must-try. This rich and creamy almond dessert is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, and it’s no wonder why.
History and Significance
Bienmesabe, which translates to “tastes good to me,” has its origins in the Canary Islands and is believed to have been created by nuns in convents on the islands. The dessert was originally made with honey, almonds, and eggs, but over time, other ingredients such as sugar and cinnamon were added. Today, bienmesabe is a popular dessert throughout the Canary Islands and is often served on special occasions or as a treat after a meal.
How to Make Bienmesabe
Making bienmesabe may seem like a complicated task, but with the right ingredients and technique, it can be quite simple. The key ingredients are almonds, honey, sugar, and eggs, which are blended together until smooth and creamy. Some recipes call for the addition of cinnamon or lemon zest for added flavor. The mixture is then baked in the oven until golden brown and set, resulting in a rich and decadent dessert.
Where to Try Bienmesabe
You can find bienmesabe in many restaurants and bakeries in the Canary Islands, but for an authentic experience, head to Lanzarote, known for its volcanic landscapes and unique cuisine. Here, you will find many traditional restaurants serving up this delicious dessert, including El Mirador de Haría in the village of Haría. This charming restaurant boasts stunning views and serves up a variety of Canarian dishes, including their famous bienmesabe.
Conclusion
The Canary Islands may be known for their beautiful beaches and sunny weather, but there is so much more to explore on these Spanish islands. From traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations to fusion cuisine that showcases the diverse influences on the islands, the food in the Canary Islands is a highlight of any visit. So next time you find yourself planning a trip to this stunning archipelago, be sure to add these top 5 dishes to your must-try list. Your taste buds will thank you.