Madeira Island, located in the Atlantic Ocean, is known for its beautiful landscapes, mild climate and unique cuisine that reflects its location and history. This volcanic island is situated between Europe and Africa, and its strategic location has always been a crossroad of different cultures and influences. This diversity can be seen in its traditional dishes, seafood, and wines, which are worth trying when visiting the island.
Traditional dishes
Madeira Island’s traditional dishes are a mix of Portuguese, African and Brazilian influences, and they are a must-try for anyone visiting the island. Some of the most popular traditional dishes include “espetada“, which is skewered beef marinated in garlic and bay leaves, and “bolo do caco“, which is a traditional bread made with sweet potato.
To make espetada, you will need skewers, cubed beef (“lombo” is a good option), garlic, bay leaves and rock salt. First, marinate the meat with garlic, bay leaves and rock salt, then skewer it and grill it over hot coals.
As for bolo do caco, you will need a sweet potato, flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and water. Making bolos do caco is a skill that only a few people poses. You will need to work up a dough that is then shaped into round “cakes” and baked on a hot flat griddle over the fire.
These traditional dishes can be found in most of the local restaurants on the island, but if you want to try the authentic version, you should head to the city of Funchal, where you can find some of the oldest and most traditional restaurants. Some popular spots include “Restaurante Santo António” and “Casa do Bolo do Caco“.
Quick lunch or dinner
A prego is a delicious, warm sandwich that is definitely one of Madeira’s favourite lunch options, with a side of salad and chips of course. The prego (prego no pão) is incredibly simple. It’s made from thin slice of beef that is fried in butter, garlic and bay leaves, and served in a bread roll (papa seco or even small bolo do caco). In some places prego would be also served just on a plate with an egg on top and a side of chips.
A “Picado” or “picadinho” is a traditional dish found in most restaurants around Madeira island. It can be made of beef, pork, tuna, octopus or chicken and pretty much all of these options are delicious. The meat or fish is cubed and prepared, then served on an oblong plate circled by chips. When you order a picado, you will be asked how many people will be sharing and eating along. Don’t be surprised if you get toothpicks to eat your meal with – it’s a tradition. Before you panic though, you can ask for smaller plates so that everyone can have their own portion, and a knife and a fork of course.
Seafood
Madeira Island’s location in the Atlantic Ocean makes it a prime spot for seafood. The island is surrounded by waters rich in fish and shellfish, and the local cuisine reflects this abundance. Some of the most popular seafood dishes include “Espada preta” (black scabbard fish) grilled with banana, “lapas grelhadas” (grilled limpets) and “caldeirada” (a fish stew).
One of the best places to try seafood on the island is the town of Câmara de Lobos, located on the southwest coast of the island. This small fishing village is known for its fresh seafood and traditional restaurants. Alternatively, you can visit “O Calhau” in Funchal, “O Pescador” in Machico or the famous and very fairly-priced “Auatoum Restaurant” in Caniçal.
wine
Madeira Island is also known for its wine production, particularly its famous Madeira wine.
Madeira wine is a fortified wine that is aged in oak barrels, which gives it its unique flavor and color. The wine can be found in various styles, including dry, medium dry and sweet, and it is usually served as an aperitif or as a dessert wine.
One of the best ways to learn about Madeira wine is by visiting one of the island’s wine cellars.
Some popular spots include “Henriques & Henriques” in Câmara de Lobos and “Justino’s Madeira Wines” in Santa Cruz. These cellars offer tours and tastings, where you can learn about the history and production of Madeira wine and sample different varieties.
Are you interested in a bespoke tour to taste the best foods Madeira has on offer or would you like us to organise wine tasking for you? Just reach out to us – we will make it happen.
Madeira Island’s traditional cuisine is a reflection of its unique location and history. The island’s mix of Portuguese, African and Brazilian influences can be seen in its traditional dishes, seafood, and wines.
Whether you’re looking to try espetada and bolo do caco, or sample the island’s famous seafood and wine, Madeira Island is a culinary destination not to be missed. Plan your next culinary adventure to Madeira Island and taste the best of what the island has to offer.
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