Gastronomy
Tenerife, with its privileged location in the Atlantic Ocean, offers a rich fishing tradition that is reflected in its gastronomy. The waters surrounding the island are generous in marine species, allowing local restaurants to offer fresh fish and seafood dishes that delight residents and tourists alike. Among the most popular delicacies are octopus , wreckfish and calamari a la romana , three must-tries for those who wish to enjoy the flavors of the sea.
Octopus is one of the most representative dishes of the cuisine of Tenerife and the Canary Islands in general. Prepared in different ways, octopus is on the menus of many restaurants on the island, where it stands out for its tender texture and mild flavor.
One of the most popular ways to prepare octopus in Tenerife is Galician style. Galician style octopus consists of slices of cooked octopus served on a potato base or directly on a wooden plate, seasoned with olive oil, paprika (sweet or spicy) and coarse salt. It is a simple tapa but full of flavor, perfect to accompany with a white wine from the island.
Another version not to be missed is the grilled octopus , an option that brings out the natural flavor of the octopus. After boiling it to make it tender, it is browned on the grill, creating a crispy layer on the outside and maintaining its softness on the inside. It is often accompanied with mojo verde or wrinkled potatoes, making it an irresistible combination.
The wreckfish , a large fish found in the deep waters of the Atlantic, is one of the most appreciated fish in Tenerife. Its meat is white, juicy and firm in texture, which makes it a delight for fish lovers.
The most common way to prepare wreckfish on the island is grilled , which preserves its juiciness and enhances its natural flavor. It is generally served with simple garnishes such as wrinkled potatoes and green mojo, keeping the essence of the dish in the freshness of the fish. Wreckfish stands out for being a very versatile fish, which can be served both in formal dishes and in simpler versions, depending on the restaurant.
For those who prefer a more hearty dish, the wreckfish in casserole is an ideal option. In this case, the fish is cooked in a stew with potatoes, peppers and tomatoes, and seasoned with local herbs and spices. This dish brings out the flavors of the island's fresh ingredients, offering a complete experience of Canarian cuisine.
Calamares a la romana is a classic on Tenerife menus and a tapa that visitors always enjoy. This dish consists of battered squid rings fried until they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Calamares a la romana are the perfect tapa to share, especially on sunny days on the coast, accompanied by a cold beer or a good local wine. Their simplicity and popularity make them an essential part of the island's cuisine.
Generally, calamari a la romana is served with a touch of lemon juice to squeeze over it and enhance its flavor. In many restaurants, they are also accompanied with mojo or some homemade sauce, which adds an extra touch of flavor to each bite.
Fishing has been an essential activity in Tenerife since time immemorial, and the island's cuisine reflects this legacy. Fresh fish dishes, such as octopus, wreckfish and squid, are present in practically every restaurant on the island, from the most sophisticated to the most humble.
The secret of the success of these dishes lies in the quality of the products. The fish and seafood are caught locally and prepared with techniques that respect tradition and the natural flavor of the ingredients. Whether it is a formal dinner or an informal meal by the sea, fresh fish from Tenerife will offer you an authentic and unforgettable gastronomic experience.
Tenerife is an ideal destination for sea lovers, not only for its stunning coastal scenery and beaches, but also for its cuisine based on Atlantic products. Octopus, wreckfish and calamari a la romana are three of the many seafood delicacies you can't miss during your visit. Whether you enjoy them as tapas, main courses or accompanied by the traditional papas arrugadas, these flavors will take you to explore the best of the island's gastronomy.
