What to Eat in Tenerife
One of the delights of Spain is that its gastronomy is so diverse, even from region to region. What’s more, the Canary Islands are no exception to this. So NOW, what to eat in Tenerife on your trip.
What to eat in Tenerife
Their isolation from the rest of Spain, their geographical position with respect to the north-east trade winds, their flora and fauna, and their consideration as a bridge between four continents (Africa, North America, South America and Europe) means that their gastronomy comes as a unique treat to their many visitors, and locals alike. Furthermore, if you wonder what to eat in Tenerife, keep reading and discover Tenerife, land of contrasts and flavours.
Ropa vieja
One of the many soups in the Canary Island gastronomy, we consider ropa vieja to be among the best. In fact, it makes use of shredded leftover meats, the vast array of local vegetables, spices, and chickpeas. Don’t be put off by its literal translation, “old clothes”, ropa vieja will certainly be a delight for your taste buds.
Conejo o pollo al salmorejo (Rabbit or chicken)
This delicious dish, with rabbit or chicken as its base, is cooked as many Canary Island dishes are:
- with herbs spices such as paprika,
- thyme,
- oregano,
- cumin,
- black pepper and,
- garlic.
You will also find it is prepared in white wine, giving it a delicious touch. Watch out! The word “salmorejo” here is unrelated to the Andalusian thick, cold tomato soup. You’ll just have to try it to see what we mean.
Mojo
Literally translated simply as dip or sauce, Mojo (pronounced more like mo-ho) is a traditional Canary Island sauce. It is based on native pepper varieties and olive oil, and mixed with other herbs and spices. In addition, there are two main varieties, mojo verde (green) and mojo rojo (red), both of which must be tried during your visit, as well as others such as saffron, garlic, herb etc. You’ll find that every family on the island has its own recipe for mojo.
Papas arrugadas
Wrinkled potatoes, when translated into English, are a staple of the Canary Island diet and a simple specialty. These small potatoes are boiled in their skins in salted water and accompany other dishes. Besides, they’re also delicious with mojo (see above).
Queso asado (Roast cheese)
Roast cheese, or queso asado, is a must-try whilst on Tenerife. Specifically, the Canary Island cheese is made from goat’s milk, and again is delicious accompanied by any variety of mojo.
Gofio
Roast grains, toast local cereals, throw in some chickpeas and grind it together. The result: gofio, a traditional type of flour from the Canaries. What’s more, it’s used as an addition to many foods, or alternatively made into balls. Also, these can replace bread, be eaten in soups, or accompany whatever you like.
Morcilla dulce
Not everyone’s a fan of the famous pig’s blood sausage, or morcilla, which is ever so typical in Spain. However, this variety gives it a delicious sweet twist. The morcilla dulce mixes onion, raisins, almonds, and sugar into its recipes, giving it a delightfully sweet edge. It’s well worth a try, you won’t be let down.
Plátano de Canarias
Have you ever noticed how many of your supermarket bananas come from the Canary Islands? Well, they’re much tastier at their source. Simple, but well worth it: don’t forget to try the Canary Islands bananas.
Other Fruits
Rich in biodiversity, the islands’ fruit is not set to disappoint. Try the mangoes, pineapple, “cherimoya” or custard apple, guava, avocado, papaya and much more. We promise: it’s tastier here.
Definitely, it’s been no easy task to narrow such a wide gastronomy down into a few simple paragraphs, so feel free to comment. We’ll be delighted to hear any other delicious dishes you’ve discovered what to eat in Tenerife on your trip to Tenerife.