Gastronomically speaking, Lanzarote falls nothing short of the typical Canarian cuisine. Basically, the same ingredients and the same dishes yield the specificity of the culinary profile of Lanzarote. Thus, unsurprisingly, fish, vegetables, meats and cheeses, as well as olive oil and fruit are the chief ingredients of all gastronomic delights in Lanzarote. Garlic, paprika, oregano, thyme, saffron and coriander are the chief spices enhancing or giving extra color to the already rich flavors of local and regional traditional dishes.

Though said to be of peasant origins, Canarian cuisine combines the freshness of all basic and simple ingredients into some of the most tempting dishes.

Traditional Lanzarote dishes

All sorts of stews, broths and soups blend vegetables and meats into hearty and yet light dishes, given Canarian cuisine is known for its tradition of nonfat dietary guidelines. In respect to meats, goat meat and pork are largely used, though chicken and rabbit are also a common gastronomic presence. Tourists will identify under the name of potaje and puchero the manifold combinations of such ingredients largely classifiable as stews and soups.

Fish and seafood can not be disregarded once in Lanzarote. Locals usually prefer fish baked or fried, though salted and boiled fish is just as common. As to seafood, a very popular delight refers to sancocho, which is, basically, seafood and fish sautéed into an irresistible temptation for those who enjoy eating fish and seafood.

But what could Canarian cuisine be without the famed papas arrugadas? Literally wrinkly potatoes (boiled and salted potatoes), papas arrugadas can be eaten as such or accompanied by a large range of fish, meats and vegetables.

Gofio is yet another absolutely unique element pertaining to the regional cuisine. This flour made of various grains (but basically wheat and corn) can be cooked in various ways, either added to soups and stews in order to thicken and add further consistency to such dishes, or turned into pastry products or even desserts.

In terms of dips and sauces, mojo is undisputedly the most popular of all. Either rojo (red and spicy) or verde (green and less spicy), mojo is a garlic-based sauce able to accompany and enliven plenty of dishes.

The Canary Islands are reputed for their cheese production. Goat cheese is held in great respect in the archipelago, and Lanzarote observes just as keenly the traditional goat cheese production.

Wines

Lanzarote does not necessarily excel in wine production, nor does this island have a solid oenological pride and reputation. However, the most popular wine in Lanzarote refers to the one produced from the malvasia grape. On the other hand, the wines produced in Lanzarote have a specific unmatchable character due to the volcanic and black soils feeding the vineyards of Lanzarote.

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