What to Eat And Drink In The Azores ? A food lover’s guide to Azores

The Azores, an archipelago of nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, is an autonomous region of Portugal. Its unique location, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage have shaped the islands’ distinct culinary scene. This food lover’s guide will introduce you to some of the must-try dishes, beverages, and food experiences in the Azores.

Cozido das Furnas (Furnas Stew)

This iconic dish from São Miguel Island is cooked using the natural heat from volcanic hot springs. Cozido das Furnas is a hearty stew made with a mix of meats, including beef, pork, chicken, and various sausages, as well as vegetables like cabbage, kale, potatoes, and carrots. The ingredients are placed in a pot, which is then buried in the volcanic soil for several hours to cook slowly, resulting in tender, flavorful meat and vegetables.

Cozido das Furnas is a traditional Azorean dish that highlights the unique volcanic landscape of the Azores, particularly on São Miguel Island. This slow-cooked stew brings together an array of meats and vegetables, which are cooked using the natural heat of the volcanic hot springs in the village of Furnas.

Ingredients: Cozido das Furnas is a hearty, one-pot meal that combines various meats and vegetables.

Typical ingredients include:

• Beef
• Pork
• Chicken
• Sausages (such as chouriço, morcela, and linguiça)
• Cabbage
• Kale
• Potatoes
• Carrots
• Yams or sweet potatoes

Cooking Method: The unique aspect of Cozido das Furnas is its cooking method, which utilizes the natural heat from the volcanic hot springs in Furnas. The process involves the following steps:

1. The meats and vegetables are prepared and placed in layers in a large pot or a sealed, stainless steel container.
2. The pot is then buried in the volcanic soil near the hot springs, which can reach temperatures of around 100°C (212°F). The cooking spot is marked with a numbered wooden stake.
3. The cozido is left to cook for approximately 6 hours, absorbing the heat from the volcanic steam.
4. Once cooked, the pot is carefully removed from the ground, and the cozido is served with crusty bread or rice to soak up the flavorful juices.

Cultural Significance: Cozido das Furnas is more than just a delicious meal; it is also an integral part of Azorean culture and a testament to the resourcefulness of the island’s inhabitants. The dish showcases the region’s unique geothermal resources and highlights the importance of local ingredients and traditions. Cozido das Furnas is often enjoyed by both locals and tourists, who are drawn to the spectacle of cooking with the Earth’s natural heat and the enticing flavors of the finished dish.

Alcatra

Alcatra is a traditional Azorean pot roast, particularly popular on Terceira Island. This slow-cooked dish features tender beef cooked in a rich and flavorful wine sauce, making it a hearty and satisfying meal to enjoy. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, cooking method, and cultural significance of Alcatra, a beloved Azorean culinary treasure.

Ingredients: The key ingredients of Alcatra include:

• Beef (usually rump or chuck)
• Onions
• Garlic
• Bay leaves
• Whole cloves
• Allspice berries
• Black peppercorns
• Tomato paste or fresh tomatoes
• Red wine (traditionally, a dry Azorean wine)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Method: To prepare Alcatra, follow these steps:

1. Cut the beef into large chunks and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or a traditional clay pot called “panela de barro,” create layers of onions, garlic, and bay leaves.
3. Place the seasoned beef chunks on top of the layered vegetables.
4. Add the cloves, allspice berries, and black peppercorns.
5. Mix the tomato paste or fresh tomatoes with the red wine and pour over the beef.
6. Cover the pot and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Alternatively, the pot can be placed in an oven preheated to 150°C (300°F) and cooked for the same amount of time.
7. Stir occasionally, adding more wine if needed to prevent the dish from drying out.
8. Once cooked, serve Alcatra with crusty bread or steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Cultural Significance: Alcatra is an essential part of Azorean cuisine and is often served during festive occasions and family gatherings. The dish has its roots in Portuguese culinary traditions but has evolved to incorporate local ingredients and flavors. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich, comforting meal that is representative of Azorean hospitality and culinary heritage.

Queijo da Ilha (Island Cheese)

The Azores is renowned for its delicious cheeses, particularly the semi-hard, cow’s milk cheese known as Queijo da Ilha. This cheese has a robust, tangy flavor and is often enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or ingredient in various dishes. São Jorge Island is particularly famous for its cheese production.

Production: Queijo da Ilha is primarily made from the milk of cows that graze on the lush, green pastures of the Azores. The islands’ volcanic soil, abundant rainfall, and mild climate create an ideal environment for dairy farming, resulting in high-quality milk with a rich, unique flavor. São Jorge Island is particularly famous for its cheese production, but other islands in the Azores also produce their versions of Queijo da Ilha.

The cheese-making process involves separating the curds from the whey, pressing the curds to remove excess liquid, and then aging the cheese for several months or even years. The aging process allows the flavors to develop and creates the cheese’s semi-hard texture.

Flavor and Texture: Queijo da Ilha is a semi-hard cheese with a bold, tangy flavor and a slightly crumbly texture. The cheese’s taste can vary depending on the island it comes from and the length of the aging process. Younger cheeses tend to be milder and creamier, while aged cheeses are more robust, intense, and crumbly.

Ways to Enjoy Queijo da Ilha: Azorean Island Cheese can be enjoyed in various ways, including:

1. As a snack or appetizer: Queijo da Ilha can be served on a cheeseboard with crackers, crusty bread, or Azorean sweet bread, such as Bolo Lêvedo. It can also be paired with fruits, nuts, or honey for a well-rounded appetizer.
2. In cooking: The cheese can be grated or sliced and used in various dishes, such as omelets, sandwiches, pasta, or casseroles, adding a burst of Azorean flavor to your meal.
3. Paired with wine: Queijo da Ilha pairs well with a variety of wines, particularly Portuguese reds or Azorean wines, such as Verdelho from Pico Island.

Lapas Grelhadas (Grilled Limpets)

Lapas Grelhadas, or Grilled Limpets, is a popular seafood dish in the Azores that showcases the fresh and abundant marine life surrounding the islands. Limpets are small, tender mollusks that thrive on the rocky coastlines of the Azores. This simple yet flavorful dish is a must-try for seafood lovers visiting the islands. In this article, we will discuss the preparation, flavors, and the best way to enjoy Lapas Grelhadas.

Preparation: To prepare Lapas Grelhadas, the limpets are first removed from their shells and cleaned. Then, they are grilled on a hot griddle or in a frying pan, along with a generous amount of butter or olive oil, minced garlic, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The cooking process is relatively quick, as limpets can become tough if overcooked. Once cooked, the limpets are often garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro for added flavor and color.

Flavor and Texture: Lapas Grelhadas have a tender, slightly chewy texture, similar to that of clams or mussels. The limpets have a delicate, briny flavor that is enhanced by the garlic, butter or olive oil, and lemon juice used in the cooking process. The combination of flavors results in a delicious, mouthwatering dish that highlights the freshness of the Azores’ seafood.

How to Enjoy Lapas Grelhadas ?

Lapas Grelhadas can be enjoyed in various ways:

1. As an appetizer: Grilled limpets are commonly served as a starter or appetizer in Azorean restaurants and local eateries, often accompanied by crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
2. As a light meal: Lapas Grelhadas can also be enjoyed as a light meal or snack, particularly when paired with a crisp, refreshing salad or a serving of Azorean-style boiled potatoes.
3. Paired with drinks: Grilled limpets are the perfect accompaniment to a cold beer or a glass of crisp white wine, such as the local Verdelho wine from Pico Island.

Bolo Lêvedo

Bolo Lêvedo is a traditional Azorean sweet bread, originally from Furnas on São Miguel Island. These round, slightly sweet, and fluffy breads are enjoyed throughout the archipelago and have become a beloved part of Azorean cuisine. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, preparation, and various ways to enjoy Bolo Lêvedo.

Ingredients

Bolo Lêvedo is made from simple ingredients, including:

• All-purpose flour
• Milk
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Butter
• Fresh yeast or dry active yeast
• Salt

Preparation: To make Bolo Lêvedo, follow these steps:

1. Combine the milk, sugar, and butter in a saucepan, and heat gently until the butter has melted and the mixture is lukewarm. Remove from heat.
2. Dissolve the yeast in a small amount of warm water, and let it rest for a few minutes until it becomes frothy.
3. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Make a well in the center, and add the yeast mixture, eggs, and the milk mixture.
4. Stir until a smooth, sticky dough forms. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth, and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 2 hours or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over low heat. Grease it lightly with butter or oil.
6. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape them into round, flat cakes. Place them onto the preheated skillet, leaving enough space between each cake for expansion.
7. Cook the Bolo Lêvedo over low heat for about 10-12 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The bread should puff up slightly as it cooks.

Ways to Enjoy Bolo Lêvedo

Bolo Lêvedo can be enjoyed in several ways:

1. As a breakfast treat: Warm Bolo Lêvedo is delicious when served with butter, honey, or fruit preserves for a sweet and satisfying breakfast.
2. In a sandwich: Bolo Lêvedo can be sliced and used to make sandwiches, both sweet and savory. Popular fillings include ham and cheese, Nutella, or peanut butter and jelly.
3. As a snack: Bolo Lêvedo can be enjoyed on its own or toasted as a tasty snack, perfect for satisfying a sweet craving.

Ananás dos Açores (Azorean Pineapple)

Ananás dos Açores, or Azorean Pineapple, is a unique and highly prized fruit cultivated on the island of São Miguel in the Azores. Known for its exceptional flavor, smaller size, and distinctive crown, the Azorean Pineapple has earned a reputation as one of the finest pineapples in the world. In this article, we will explore the cultivation, characteristics, and ways to enjoy this exquisite fruit.

Cultivation: Azorean Pineapple is grown in traditional greenhouses called “estufas,” which provide a controlled environment for the fruit to thrive. The cultivation process is labor-intensive and requires careful attention to detail. The plants are grown from slips, which are small offshoots from the base of a mature pineapple plant. These slips are planted in the greenhouses, and it takes approximately 18-24 months for the fruit to mature.

The unique climate and growing conditions in the Azores contribute to the pineapple’s distinct flavor and appearance. Due to the lack of natural pests in the greenhouses, Azorean Pineapple is grown without the use of pesticides, making it an environmentally friendly and sustainable choice.

Characteristics: The Azorean Pineapple is known for its exceptional flavor, which is both sweet and slightly tart. The fruit is smaller than the more common varieties found in supermarkets, with a golden-yellow exterior and a succulent, aromatic flesh. The Azorean Pineapple is also characterized by its distinctive crown, with longer, spikier leaves than other pineapple varieties.

Ways to Enjoy Azorean Pineapple

There are several ways to enjoy the delectable taste of Ananás dos Açores:

1. Fresh: The simplest way to enjoy the Azorean Pineapple is to eat it fresh. Simply slice the fruit and savor its juicy, aromatic flesh.
2. In desserts: Azorean Pineapple can be used in a variety of desserts, such as pineapple upside-down cake, tarts, or sorbets. The fruit’s natural sweetness and acidity make it a perfect ingredient for refreshing and flavorful desserts.
3. As a topping: The Azorean Pineapple can be grilled or caramelized and used as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or pancakes.
4. In cocktails: The sweet and tart flavors of the Azorean Pineapple make it an excellent ingredient for cocktails, such as the classic Piña Colada or a refreshing Pineapple Mojito.

Wine and Liquors

The Azores, an archipelago located in the North Atlantic, boasts a rich and diverse history of wine and liquor production. The volcanic soil, unique climate, and centuries-old traditions contribute to the distinct flavors and characteristics of the beverages produced in the region. In this article, we will explore the various wines and liquors that are produced in the Azores and how to best enjoy them.

Wines:

1. Pico Island Wines: Pico Island is known for its UNESCO World Heritage-designated vineyards, characterized by the ancient lava stone walls that protect the vines from harsh winds and salt spray. The most prominent grape variety grown on the island is Verdelho, which produces crisp, acidic, and mineral-driven white wines. Other grape varieties cultivated on Pico Island include Arinto dos Açores and Terrantez do Pico.
2. Graciosa Island Wines: Graciosa Island produces both white and red wines, with varieties such as Fernão Pires and Castelão being grown in the region. The wines produced on Graciosa Island are known for their fruity and fresh flavors.

Liquors:

1. Licor de Maracujá (Passion Fruit Liqueur): This popular Azorean liqueur is made from the pulp of passion fruit, sugar, and alcohol. It has a sweet, tangy, and fruity flavor, making it an excellent digestif or a delightful addition to cocktails.
2. Licor de Amora (Blackberry Liqueur): Licor de Amora is a sweet and fruity liqueur made from locally sourced blackberries, sugar, and alcohol. It can be enjoyed on its own, mixed with soda water, or used in various cocktails.
3. Aguardente de Medronho (Medronho Brandy): Medronho, also known as arbutus or strawberry tree fruit, is a small, red fruit native to the Azores. Aguardente de Medronho is a strong, clear brandy made by distilling the fermented fruit. It has a unique and complex flavor, often described as fruity with a hint of spice.

How to Enjoy Azorean Wine and Liquors:

1. Wine Pairings: Azorean wines can be enjoyed with a variety of local dishes. The crisp Verdelho wines from Pico Island pair well with seafood dishes, such as Lapas Grelhadas (Grilled Limpets) or grilled fish. The fruity red wines from Graciosa Island complement hearty meat dishes, such as Alcatra (Azorean Pot Roast).
2. As a Digestif: The various Azorean liqueurs can be enjoyed after a meal as a digestif, either on their own or over ice.
3. In Cocktails: Azorean liquors can be used to create unique and flavorful cocktails. For example, Licor de Maracujá can be mixed with rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream to create a tropical twist on the classic Piña Colada.

Cha Gorreana (Azorean Tea)

The Azores is home to the only tea plantation in Europe, Cha Gorreana, located on São Miguel Island. This family-run plantation produces high-quality, organic black and green teas, which can be enjoyed at the plantation’s charming tea house or purchased to enjoy at home.

The Azores offers a unique culinary experience, with dishes and ingredients shaped by the islands’ volcanic landscapes, rich agricultural resources, and maritime influences. From hearty stews cooked in volcanic soil to delicious cheeses, fresh seafood, and locally produced wines, the Azores provides a diverse and flavorful dining experience for food lovers. When visiting these enchanting islands, make sure to sample the local cuisine, visit traditional markets, and immerse yourself in the rich food culture of the Azores. By doing so, you’ll not only enjoy mouthwatering meals but also gain a deeper appreciation for the history and culture that has shaped the region’s distinctive culinary traditions.