D on’t miss these delicious specialties Cape Verdean cuisine encompasses the culinary customs of Cape Verde. It is believed to be one of the world’s first fusion cuisines, as it has characteristics of African, Asian and European cuisines. Most Cape Verdean dishes are derived from Portuguese cuisine, however the country has seen the cultivation of products of American origin, such as chilies, squash, corn and cassava (cassava), and of Asian origin, such as pineapple, sugar, mango and papaya. Also common are semolina and several stews of African origin. Let’s look together at some of the best-known dishes, which you cannot fail to taste. Cachupa It is by far the most emblematic dish of Cape Verde. The base of this dish is corn and beans accompanied by other local ingredients such as cassava, sweet potatoes, vegetables, meat or fish. It is cooked in large pots placed over a wood fire and takes several hours to cook. Cape Verdeans consume it at all hours of the day, particularly in the morning as a highly hearty breakfast, Chowder It is a delicacy made by very slow cooking, which, when ready, takes on the appearance of a stew. Each island offers it differently, depending on the fish that is available. hey usually use garopa (a variety of red grouper), moray eel, and greenhouse fish, all topped with green bananas, cassava, American potatoes, and squash. The fried moray eel If you are in the mood for an absolutely typical appetizer, order the fried moray eel that will be served by a chili sauce and, perhaps, accompany it with an ice-cold beer. Pasteis They are cooked on the street and are very tasty: sheets of fried fish. La feijoada A bean-based specialty whose origin dates back to slavery times, accompanied by various pork parts such as bacon, chops, sausages, vegetables and a tasty broth. For seafood lovers there is octopus feijoada or seafood feijoada, both absolutely delicious. The totoco Chunks of fresh homemade pasta are made with corn moistened with water accompanied by a meat stew; very often chicken or kid are used. In Cape Verde, the freshness of the fish and the Cape Verdeans’ mastery of barbecue cooking with unique flavors will make you experience special dinners: ask for the catch of the day and have it grilled the way they know how. Contact Us
