The Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean off the west coast of Africa, are geographically part of Africa but are politically part of Europe as an autonomous region of Spain. Tenerife, the largest of the islands, boasts year-round temperate weather with temperatures ranging from 20-27 degrees Celsius, which creates exemplary growing conditions for a range of different fruits, vegetables and grains.
As a stopover point for seafarers, the Canary Islands have developed a diverse cuisine influenced by various cultural traditions, including Spanish, African, Latin American, European, and Asian. As a result, the Islands have developed a unique culinary tradition, filled with flavours from around the world. When visiting Tenerife, be sure to try some of the spectacular local dishes. Here are some of the island's exciting dishes, you shouldn't miss.
Mojo
Mojo is a type of sauce that is commonly served with grilled meats, potatoes, and vegetables. The most common variations of mojo are red Mojo and green Mojo. Both red and green Mojo is made with olive oil, garlic, and vinegar, and can be adjusted to suit personal taste preferences. They are an essential part of the cuisine of the Canary Islands and are often served as a condiment at meals.
Red Mojo is made with red peppers and paprika and has a spicy flavour. It is commonly served with meats like pork and chicken, as well as with potatoes and vegetables. Green Mojo, is made with green peppers and cilantro and has a more herbaceous flavour. It is commonly served with seafood, as well as with potatoes and vegetables.
Papas arrugadas
Papas arrugadas are small, wrinkled potatoes that are typically served with mojo sauce. They are prepared by boiling small potatoes in heavily salted water until they are tender and the skin wrinkles. The saltwater is also absorbed into the potatoes, giving them a unique flavour. Papas arrugadas are often served as a side dish with grilled meats or as a tapa. They are a staple of the cuisine of the Canary Islands, especially in Tenerife, and are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
Gofio
Gofio is a type of flour made from roasted grains, such as wheat, barley, or oats, and then grinding them into fine flour. The toasting process gives Gofio a nutty, toasted flavour. Gofio is a versatile ingredient that is used in a variety of dishes in the Canary Islands. It is often used to make porridge or added to soups and stews to thicken them. It can also be used as a coating for fried foods or mixed into dough to make bread. It is also a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour.
Sancocho
Sancocho is a traditional stew that is popular in the Canary Islands. It is made with fish or chicken, vegetables, and spices and is often served as a main dish. There are several variations of sancocho, but it is typically made with a variety of vegetables, such as potatoes, onions, bell peppers, and carrots. It could also be made with chickpeas, beans and meats.
It is also commonly made with spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic, which give it a flavorful and aromatic taste. Sancocho is often served with a side of rice and a garnish of fresh cilantro. It is a hearty and satisfying dish that is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike in the Canary Islands.
Queso de Cabra
Queso de Cabra is a type of goat cheese that is popular in the Canary Islands. It is often served fried, topped with Mojo sauce, as a tapa with bread or fruit or used as an ingredient in various dishes. It is made from the milk of goats and has a creamy, slightly tangy flavour. Queso de Cabra is commonly found in supermarkets and food stores in the Canary Islands. It is a popular choice for those who enjoy cheese and is a staple of the local cuisine.
Dorado
Dorado, also known as mahi-mahi, is a firm, white fish with a mild, sweet flavour. It is often served grilled or baked and is a popular choice in Tenerife due to its versatility and flavour. Some people may find Dorado to be a bit bland compared to other fish, but it is often served with flavorful sauces or marinades to enhance its taste. It is also a good choice for those who are not fans of "fishy" tasting fish, as it has a mild flavour and does not have a strong fishy smell.
Dorado is often served with a variety of accompaniments. Some common sides that are served with dorado in Tenerife include grilled vegetables, rice, Salad, Potatoes and crusty baguette or warm cornbread.
Canary bananas - Dwarf Cavendish
There is a strong resemblance between the bananas from the Canary Islands, Dwarf Cavendish, and the more widely known bananas, but there are also several differences between these two types of fruit. The bananas from the Canary Islands are managed by ASPROCAN (Association of Banana Producers of the Canary Islands) and are marketed under the banner of "Banana from the Canary Islands." These bananas make up the majority of banana production in the archipelago and constitute 60% of all European production. Dwarf Cavendish bananas are known for their sweet taste and creamy texture. They have thin skin and soft flesh that is sweet and aromatic. When ripe, the fruit has a yellow peel and a pale yellow to white flesh that is soft and easy to mash. The flavour of Canary bananas is often described as sweet and tropical, with notes of vanilla and caramel. They are versatile fruit that can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of dishes, including smoothies, baked goods, and fruit salads. They are also a popular choice for making banana chips because of their sweet flavour and soft texture.
