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The Cuisine of The Algarve

With its rich and varied dishes, specialities bursting with flavour and delicious fresh seafood, it is easy to understand why Portuguese gastronomy is so well known and loved around the world. The region of the Algarve is no exception with its local specialities and Portuguese cuisine.  

Read on to learn more about Portuguese gastronomy and discover the local specialties of the Algarve that you must try! 

The Cuisine of The Algarve - Algarve

Couvert

Although not a dish in itself, it is not uncommon to begin a meal in the Algarve with a couvert, or starter. This can be as simple as a bowl of olives, a selection of cheeses, or carrots marinated in olive oil, white wine, and garlic. 

Cataplana

Cataplana is a typical Portuguese dish which comes in two forms: either the seafood packed version, made with fish and seafood, or a pork and clam version. The seafood cataplana is cooked in a red tomato sauce with plenty of onion, as well as red and green peppers. 

Frango da Guia

You will likely see this Portugues staple being offered all over the country, but the dish originates from the Algarve, so it is definitely the place to try it. This delicious spicy chicken is usually prepared after being marinated in a sauce of malagueta chilli peppers, olive oil, garlic, bay leaves, vinegar or lemon, as well as paprika. 

Conquilhas à Algarvia

Fresh from the Atlantic Ocean, this wonderful Algarven dish of seafood clams is prepared with fried onions, garlic, and sliced Portuguese sausage. All the ingredients are cooked together in a pan, and the clams are then garnished with parsley or coriander. 

The Cuisine of The Algarve - Algarve

Sardinhas Assadas

A staple dish in Portuguese and Algarvian cuisine, grilled sardines are a simple and traditional dish that you must try. The sardines are usually grilled whole, and seasoned with just salt and olive oil. Although most commonly accompanied by bread, they can also be served with sautéed vegetables, boiled potatoes, or salads, and are often garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh cilantro. 

The Cuisine of The Algarve - Algarve

Feijoada

Feiojada is a hearty bean stew, usually made with pork, cold cuts, beans, vegetables and herbs. A must-try in the Algarve if you are visiting during the winter months.

Doce Fino do Algarve

This dessert is the subject of great regional pride in the Algarve. Doces finos are small marzipan sweets shaped into different forms such as small fruits. Made from marzipan, these sculpted treats are a legacy of the Moors.

Tarte de Alfarroba

This typical Algarve dessert is a pie containing alfarroba (made from carob seeds). Sweet and tasty, allfarroba tart tastes a bit like cocoa. It is a basic ingredient in many Portuguese desserts because of its abundance in the region. Combined with crushed almonds and dried figs, this deliciously moist pie is a must when visiting the Algarve.

From fish and seafood specialities to meat dishes, stews and savoury desserts, this is just a short list of what you can try during your stay in the Algarve

Discover our selection of luxury villas for your next trip Algarve

Villa Aqualife

3 Bedrooms

Villa Colombe

3 Bedrooms