Have A Traditional Feast On Your Next Menorca Holiday

They say that food is the way to someone’s heart - but it’s most definitely a good way to get to the heart of a place. There’s no better (or tastier) way to immerse yourself in a different culture than by sampling the local cuisine and, when it comes to the Mediterranean diet, Menorca knows how to serve up a meal! With an abundance of fresh seafood, a long history of cheese making, sun-soaked local produce and traditional sweet treats to die for, this beautiful island is sure to get the taste buds tingling.

If you’re staying in one of the Menorca villas, be sure to venture out of your own kitchen once in a while and into the local restaurants and bars to try some of these traditional foods that should be on every foodie’s bucket list.

Caldereta de Langosta

As the country’s most famous dish, this sumptuous lobster stew is a good place to start. The meaty shellfish is cooked until tender in a rich tomato, onion and garlic sauce, served up with enticing chunks of crusty bread. As a signature meal, you should be able to find a version of this at most restaurants. Pick one with a sea view and a good bottle of wine and you’re set for the perfect evening.

Arroz Caldo Amb Peix

You’ll soon discover that fish and seafood stews feature frequently on the local menus, and for good reason. The surrounding waters are perfect for the fresh daily catch, which quite often takes centre stage in a host of restaurants and beach cafes. The perfect example comes in the form of the Arroz caldos amb peix, which is a hearty rice and seafood stew that’s a local favourite. For something delicious, satisfying and very authentic, this is the meal for you.

Cured Sausages

Like in many European locations, cured meats are a common addition to the daily diet. Sausage, especially, is eaten widely throughout Menorca, with sobrassada being the most prevalent. Well-seasoned with paprika, this spreadable sausage packs a punch and is a delightful accompaniment to an evening platter. For more adventurous tastebuds, the carnixulla, which has been around since the Roman times, is the most ancient local sausage version. Long and thin, this savoury snack with extra salty bacon pieces is a delicious delight for the meat-lovers.

Queso de Mahon

Finally, no summer spread in your Menorca villa is complete without a cheeseboard. There are numerous farms around the island that produce the signature white Mahon cheese. Cheese enthusiasts will enjoy the subtle, salty flavour, which comes from the sea salt that coats the cow’s grassy food source. Look out for the distinctive orange rind, made so from rubbing with butter and paprika during maturation. If you’re passionate about your cheese, be sure to taste a range of ages - from smooth, creamy younger ones to the stronger-flavoured, crumbly aged forms.

Where to Stay

Now that you've whet your appetite on learning about the island’s savoury delicacies, the next step is to find yourself a home away from home for your holiday. There are some fabulous Menorca villas to choose from, ensuring that all tastes are catered for.

This superb holiday destination is tailor-made for relaxation, so get ready to switch to out-of-office mode and treat yourself to a getaway that will delight all the senses.

Author Plate

Brenda Jaaback, Managing Director of Bartle Holidays, is a renowned Menorca expert. From its history to its people and from its wildlife to its cuisine - no secret of the island remains hidden to her. Personally selecting the finest properties for her clients, Brenda is the go-to person for anyone looking for the best Menorca villas for a relaxing holiday. Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.