8 Local Foods to Try in the Algarve
It’s well known that the Algarve is home to some of the most opulent beaches, glittering coastlines and quaint villages. With such a rich display of luxury, culture and spirited history, it’s easy to forget that the Algarve is also loved for its delicious foods and has an abundance of exceptional delicacies to enjoy.
Foodies can immerse themselves in delicious dishes knowing that the vast majority of ingredients and produce are locally sourced and relished by locals and visitors alike.
Today we’re going to share 8 culinary delights you simply must try when visiting the Algarve.
Conquilhas à Algarvia
This seafood-lovers dish originates in the southern region of the Algarve, and it is a nod to traditional Portuguese cuisine. Fresh from the Atlantic Ocean, this one-of-a-kind dish consists of juicy clams, fried onions, garlic and thin slices of succulent Portuguese sausage.
The magic starts with fresh clams being garnished with parsley or coriander. All of the ingredients are cooked together so the flavours can infuse and create something extraordinary. This star of a dish is often enjoyed with a glass of crisp white while and is the perfect choice for a salty, sea-aired dinner overlooking the ocean.
Frango da Guia
Affectionately regarded as one of the most popular meals in the Algarve, Guia Chicken is a perfect choice if you want to experience the best roast Chicken Portugal has to offer. Originating in the Algarve, the word of Frango da Guia travelled across the country, and people were desperate to discover what was in the secret marinade, which is kept under lock and key and has always aroused the curiosity of those who experience this iconic dish.
Javali
This dish contains comforting vegetables and rich flavours, consisting of tender meat from the wild boar. This meal is one you will see in many a restaurant dotted about the Algarve and is an excellent alternative to seafood.
Enjoy warm fresh bread and fresh yoghurt for the ultimate comfort-food explosion.
Sardines (in Portimão)
The Algarve’s residents have a unique way of cooking and eating sardines. In this popular dish, the fresh sardines are grilled in an exciting blend of herbs and spices and then placed on a slice of thick, fresh bread.
If you want to try and eat this meal the traditional way, then without using your hands, chew the meat off one side of the sardine. Then flip it over and enjoy the rest of the fish on the other side, leaving just the skeleton behind. Once you have eaten the fish, you’re left to tuck into the delicious oil-soaked bread.
Shrimp Bisque
The prawns of the Algarve are really in a league of their own. Used in many different ways throughout the region’s cuisine, a simple way to enjoy them is grilled over smoking charcoal and eaten hot with a creamy or garlic and lemon sauce.
But shrimp Bisque is a unique Algarve dish perfect for a starter or light evening meal. This thick and creamy soup is topped with a toasted slice of bread with fat and pink, juicy marinated shrimp on top. It truly is a mouthwatering marvel to be enjoyed anytime in any setting.
Petiscos de Taberna
This delightful dish makes for a delicious snack as you walk through the streets of the Algarve. Each aspect of this wonderful plate is carefully chosen to represent a variety of the nearby foods on offer. A selection of local meats served with succulent cured sausage and seafood fritters; this tiny tapas is ideal if you’re stopping for a luxurious lunch. If you’re interested in tasting the local cuisine then this is a must-try.
Ozido a Portuguesa
This traditional treat has become very popular in the Algarve and really is worth making a special effort to try. This hearty stew of meats and vegetables can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner and is often eaten with warm and crusty bread .The main ingredients are usually beef, pork and Portuguese sausages; however you can also choose to have this with chicken if you prefer.
Dom Rodrigo
Traditionally associated with the Algarve, this gift-wrapped dessert has been made here since the 18th century. This simple yet stunning dessert is made by combining sugar, egg yolks, ground almonds, cinnamon, and fios de ovos (a traditional Portuguese sweet, made by boiling thin strands of egg in sugar syrup). Be sure to try this sweet treat when you visit the Algarve.
So, are you ready to make your tastebuds sing?
If so, the Algarve is ready to welcome and dazzle you with its delectable dishes.. And remember, if you need assistance planning any detail of your Algarve visit, whether it’s beach recommendations, activities in the local area or simply which restaurants are child-friendly, get in touch with one of our experts today.
