Typical Dishes of the Algarve
A ruggedly beautiful coastline overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and a richly fertile interior producing orange, olive, almond and fig trees has lead to the development of two styles of cuisine in the Algarve. One based on what comes from the sea and the other from the land. In this post we are going to have a look at some typical cuisine for you to enjoy on your holiday in the Algarve.
Seafood Dishes
Ameijoas à Bulhao Pato- The Algarve’s signature dish, fresh clams are cooked with garlic, coriander, onion and locally produced white wine and olive oil. This dish is usually served with lashings of crusty white bread to mop up with.
Bacalau- Atlantic Cod prepared in a myriad of ways. There is a saying that there are 365 recipes for Portugal’s favourite fish, one for everyday of the year. It even makes it onto the table duringchristmas.
Caldereida- A deliciously simple yet hearty fisherman’s style stew chocked full of fish, shellfish, potatoes, tomatos, white wine and herbs.
Cataplana- Clams or other shellfish cooked with bacon or sausages in the distinctive copper dish of Moorish origin. This dish best sums up the cuisine of the Algarve.
Sardines- A very typical summer dish in the Algarve, cooked over coals and served on a piece of bread. You will be able to find sardines in most restaurants. Yum!
Non-Seafood Dishes
Caldo Verde- This tasty soup can be found all over Portugal and is made with potato, garlic, chorizo sausage and the secret ingredient curly kale.
Cozido a Portugesa- A very hearty dish best eaten in winter. Packed full of meat, vegetables, rice and beans it is a firm favourite amongst Portuguese families.
Frango Piri-Piri- A spicy take on the already famous chicken piri-piri. The chicken is left to marinate in a spicy version of piri-piri before being grilled over the coals.
These are just a few of the delicious dishes available in the Algarve, the best way to discover more is for yourself. If you discover any which should be on the list leave a comment and let us know.
James – Marketing Team
