Tenerife is an island that offers a wide range of culinary delights, thanks to its privileged location in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and its year-round warm climate. The local cuisine is characterized by authentic flavors and fresh ingredients that reflect the island’s tradition and history. Let’s now get to know the main typical dishes so that you’ll be prepared the first time you visit a restaurant!
Papas Arrugadas and Mojo
One of the most famous dishes in Tenerife is “papas arrugadas” (wrinkled potatoes), delicious local potatoes cooked in salted water until they become wrinkled and crispy. They are usually served with two variations of “mojo,” a flavorful sauce: green mojo made with coriander and parsley, and red mojo with spicy peppers, both adding a touch of flavor to the papas arrugadas. If you’re not a fan of garlic, they might be a bit strong, but we still recommend trying them as an appetizer. However, be careful not to order them twice, as they are often served as a side dish for meat and fish!
Gofio
Gofio is one of the oldest foods on the island, dating back to the time of the Guanches, the indigenous inhabitants of the Canary Islands. It is made from roasted and finely ground cereals, such as corn or wheat, and is a versatile accompaniment found in many traditional dishes or even in simple milk for a nutritious breakfast.
Fresh Fish in Tenerife
Due to Tenerife’s privileged location on the Atlantic Ocean, fresh fish is an essential element of the local cuisine. One of the most appreciated fish specialties is “dorada” (sea bream), a delicious fish species that thrives in the surrounding seas of Tenerife. Renowned for its delicate flavor and succulent meat, it is prepared in various ways, such as grilled with a drizzle of olive oil and local herbs to preserve the natural taste of the fish, and served with papas arrugadas or vegetables.
Conejo en Salmorejo and Grilled Meat
Tenerife is also famous for its meat-based dishes, and one of the tastiest is “conejo en salmorejo” (rabbit in salmorejo). This dish involves marinating the rabbit in a spicy brine to enhance its flavor before slow-cooking it. It is usually served with potatoes or accompanied by gofio.
Grilled meat is also a must-try, including cuts of beef, pork, or lamb, marinated with local spices and island-typical aromas, served with papas arrugadas, gofio, or vegetables. For an authentic experience, we recommend trying it at one of the local “guachinches.”
Desserts, Coffees, and Liqueurs
To conclude your meal, we recommend trying the “quesillo,” a classic Canarian dessert that captivates hearts with its simplicity and goodness. This local flan is a variant of the traditional crème caramel but with a distinctive touch. Prepared with eggs, condensed milk, and caramel, the quesillo stands out for the addition of goat milk, giving the dessert a delicate and slightly creamy taste.
Don’t leave the table without ordering a good coffee, a “cortado” if you like it with milk, or a “barraquito” (coffee, condensed milk, a dash of liquor, and sometimes cinnamon) if you want something special. For liqueur lovers, the “rum miel” (honey rum) or the local banana liqueur are highly recommended.
