The Canary Islands are a paradise for foodies, boasting a diverse and unique cuisine that is deeply rooted in the archipelago’s traditional recipes and local wildlife. From aromatic forests and marine reserves to picturesque national parks, the Canarian gastronomy shines with Biosphere Reserves recognized by UNESCO. Here are some of the unmissable products of Canarian cuisine that will make your palate dance.
Canarian coffee
Do you know that coffee is grown in Europe? The Agaete Valley in Gran Canaria is home to the only coffee that is grown and produced in Europe. Canarian coffee has been produced here using Arabic beans for over two centuries, making it the northernmost coffee in the world. With a distinctive taste and aroma, this gourmet product is a must-try for coffee lovers.
La vieja
La vieja is a type of old fish from the Canary Islands, appreciated by locals for its extraordinary flavor. It is often compared to shellfish due to its delicate texture and high nutritional and protein values, making it an excellent source of essential nutrients. With an intense flavor that is unique to the Canarian cuisine, this fish is undoubtedly one of the favorites among locals and tourists alike.
Red tuna
If you love seafood, the Bluefin tuna from the Canary Islands is a must-try. These majestic creatures can grow up to three meters and are caught fresh daily by fishermen’s associations from each of the islands. The three main marine reserves on La Graciosa, El Hierro, and La Restinga are the primary locations for catching this precious fish, which is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. The Canaries are also a transit point for all varieties of tuna all year round.
Lapas
Barnacles or lapas are a delicacy that can be found on all the islands, with Lanzarote and La Palma being particularly famous for them. These mollusks stick to the rocks and are picked one by one before being eaten with a traditional green sauce. The combination of sweet and salty tastes is irresistible, making lapas an integral part of Canarian cuisine.
Mojo
Whether it is green mojo, red mojo, or picón mojo, this traditional Canarian sauce is used in many famous dishes associated with the Canary Islands. Made from a blend of spices, mojo adds intense and spicy flavors to any dish. It is a must-try and can be found in many restaurants and casa rurales (farmhouses) throughout the islands.
Almogrote
Almogrote, another gastronomic specialty from the Island of La Gomera, is made from cured cheese, tomato, garlic, and palm pepper. This unique flavor and authenticity make it an unforgettable experience for foodies all over the world. Its delightful taste embodies the essence of Canarian gastronomy, making it one of the favorites on the islands.
Gofio
Gofio has been an intrinsic part of the Canarian diet for centuries. This superfood is a type of cornmeal or millet flour that is toasted in an artisanal way and then ground using mealing stones. The result is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes, including sweet or savory ones. Gofio is often mixed with milk, water, or broth, and there is even gofio ice cream.
Canarian olive oil
Need some extra flavor for your dishes? The Canary Islands offer extra virgin olive oil from olives grown in the fertile soil of the archipelago. Eleven mills in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, La Palma, Fuerteventura, and El Hierro produce this premium olive oil, which is known for its exceptional taste, flavor, and texture.
Canarian wines
The vines of the Canary Islands have grown between volcanic craters, trade winds, and tropical paradises since the 15th century. Today there are ten D.O.s in the Canary Islands, each named after their respective islands, including Tenerife, Gran Canaria, La Gomera, El Hierro, La Palma, and Lanzarote. Each variety is unique, not only due to the geological and climatic conditions but also because they are pre-phylloxera varieties of free-standing.
Canarian cheeses
Cheese is an essential part of Canarian culture and tradition. Across the islands, artisan cheese factories produce a vast selection of cheeses with extraordinary flavors. There are three protected denominations of origin (PDO), each with its own nuances and textures: DOP Queso Majorero, DOP Palmero Cheese, and PDO Guía Flower Cheese.
Palm honey
Palm honey, or guarapo, is not actually honey, but it is a syrup obtained from the sap of the palm tree. This Canarian delicacy is mainly used as a sweetener in the preparation of desserts. It is native to the Island of La Gomera, where it is produced using traditional methods.
Plátano de Canarias
The Canary Islands banana, or Plátano de Canarias, is the only banana in the world with the Protected Geographical Indication (IGP) seal. This recognition guarantees the uniqueness and origin of the Canary Islands banana while acknowledging it as a high-quality product. With its rich flavor, the bananas from the Canaries are excellent for cooking and making delicious smoothies.
In conclusion, the Canary Islands offer a unique and diverse cuisine that awakens all the senses. From coffee, red tuna, and lapas to palo honey, Plátano de Canarias, and gofio, the Canarian gastronomy is a feast for foodies around the world. Come and enjoy the flavors of the Canary Islands, where traditional recipes and local wildlife combine to create unforgettable dishes.
