The gastronomy is one of the main attractions of the Madeira Archipelago thanks to the dishes that carry seafood. Another unique characteristic is the fresh and varied complements coming from the volcanic nature of the islands, that give a special flavor to the food.

Fish, meat, tropical fruits, vegetables and other delicacies promise true gastronomic experiences that visitors can not fail to taste during their stay in the Portuguese destination.

1. sword steak
Available in few places in the world, the swordfish is one of the most famous Madeiran dishes. It can be served with banana or passion fruit sauce and its seasoning – with garlic, lemon juice, salt and pepper – contrasts with the boiled potatoes inserted as accompaniment. The roe of this noble animal can also be consumed cooked or fried, served with vinaigrette sauce.

2. Tuna steak
Famous also in Brazil, the tuna has a peculiar way of preparation on Madeira Island: it is cut into steaks, seasoned with salt and marinated in “villus sauce” – made with vinegar, olive oil, garlic, oregano and pepper. As an accompaniment, fried corn cubes are served to balance the flavor of the meat.

3. Spiky
Traditional Madeiran barbecue, Espetada is one of the most consumed dishes on feast days in the Madeira region. Seasoned with garlic, coarse salt and laurel, beef cubes are sautéed on laurel branches and cooked in hot coals, ensuring a soft and juicy point.

4. Honey Cake
Among the most coveted desserts, honey cake is a hit with tourists. Traditional sweet from the region, contains cane honey, cider and nuts in its recipe. Its most frequent consumption is during the Christmas holidays, since it is specially prepared on December 8, the day of Our Lady of the Conception.

5. Passion fruit pudding
A true combination of scents that sharpen the senses, is usually prepared with purple passion fruit. The pulp of the fruit is combined with gelatin, condensed milk and cream, which give rise to a sweetness familiar to the Brazilians, but with the Madeiran touch of fruits of volcanic soil.

6. Stylish Lapas of Madeira
The limpets are mollusks that cling to the cliffs on the sea coast, and have become one of the most appreciated dishes in Madeira. Used as appetizers or appetizers, they are grilled in their own shell, seasoned with lots of garlic and served hot, sprinkled with butter and a hint of lemon.

7. Cake of the Caco
In spite of this name, it is a typical bread of the region of round and flat shape, cooked on a stone, called caco. The result is a crunchy dough on the outside (when roasted) and soft inside, usually consumed still hot, with garlic butter and parsley.