In Tenerife’s rich and varied gastronomy, gofio stands out as an essential ingredient that has been part of the Canarian diet for centuries. This food, made from toasted and ground grains, is not only versatile, but also present in a multitude of dishes, from stews and soups to desserts. Among the most popular sweet delicacies that use gofio are sweet frangollo empanadas and sweet potato trout, two desserts that reflect the island’s culinary tradition and creativity.

What is Gofio? A Traditional Canarian Food

Gofio is an ancestral food that has its roots in the indigenous cultures of the Canary Islands. It is made mainly from wheat or corn, which are toasted before being ground. This toasting process not only enhances the flavor, but also makes gofio a nutritious ingredient, rich in fiber and protein.

Gofio has historically been used as a basic source of energy, and today it continues to be an important element in Canarian cuisine. It can be found in various presentations, from corn gofio to wheat gofio, and is used in a variety of dishes ranging from savory to sweet.

Frangollo: A Traditional Dessert with Gofio

Frangollo is a sweet dessert that stands out for its soft texture and comforting flavor. This dish is mainly made with gofio, milk, sugar and other ingredients that vary according to the recipe, such as almonds, raisins or even cinnamon. The frangollo is cooked slowly, allowing the flavors to blend and develop, resulting in a creamy and delicious dessert.

Sweet Potato Trout

Truchas de batata are another popular dessert that uses gofio and have become a classic of Canarian confectionery. This sweet consists of a thin dough that is filled with a sweet potato puree and often with gofio, sugar and cinnamon. It is then fried until golden brown and crispy, creating an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.

Sweet Potato Trout Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 500 g sweet potatoes
  • 150 g of gofio (corn or wheat)
  • 100 g sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pie dough (you can buy or make your own)
  • Frying oil

Instructions:

  1. Cook the sweet potatoes until tender and mash them.
  2. Mix the sweet potato puree with the gofio, sugar and cinnamon until a homogeneous mass is obtained.
  3. Fill the sweet potato mixture into the pie dough wafers.
  4. Close the patties and fry them in hot oil until golden brown.
  5. Drain excess oil and sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.

The Taste of Tenerife in Every Bite

Gofio and sweet delicacies such as frangollo and sweet potato trout are a perfect representation of Tenerife’s gastronomic culture. Every bite connects you with the tradition, history and love for good food that characterizes the Canary Islanders. If you visit the island, don’t miss the opportunity to taste these delicacies and take a piece of Tenerife on your palate – the authentic taste of the island is waiting for you!