A guide to the gastronomy of the Algarve

Written on : 17 January 2022
By : Leah Psaromatis

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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

Feijoada

If you need a break from all the fish and seafood, this hearty bean stew is ideal. Usually prepared with pork, cured meat, beans, vegetables and herbs, this warm and satisfying stew is a must in the Algarve, especially if you are visiting during the winter months.

Of course, you always need a dessert to finish your meal on a sweet note. These are some of the typical desserts of the Algarve region:

Doce Fino do Algarve

A dessert with significant regional pride in the Algarve, Doces finos are small marzipan treats shaped into different forms such as little fruits. Made from almond paste, the origin of these little sculpted treats can be traced back to Moorish times, making this dessert a must try during your holidays in the Algarve.

Tarte de Alfarroba

One of the most typical desserts in the Algarve, this pie is made of alfarroba, which is a fruit that despite lacking physical appeal, makes up for it in deliciousness. Sweet and flavorful, alfarroba tastes a bit like cocoa and is a staple ingredient for many Portuguese desserts due to its abundance in the region. Combined with crushed almonds and dry fig, this delicious and soft pie is a must during your stay in the Algarve.

As you can tell, the Algarve has numerous delicious dishes and desserts for you to try that we are certain you will love. From fish and seafood specialties to meat dishes and stews, this is just a small list of what you can try during your stay in the Algarve, so don’t hesitate to book a trip and explore the region's cuisine for yourself!

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