Fuerteventura, one of the jewels of the Canary archipelago, is not only known for its impressive landscapes and beaches, but also for its rich gastronomic and agricultural tradition. Majorero products are the reflection of a culture that has known how to combine tradition with innovation, giving rise to unique flavors and textures.
In this article, we will explore some of the most emblematic Majorero products that you cannot miss trying.
Majorero products
Tomatoes
History: Tomatoes in Fuerteventura have been grown industrially since 1927. This agricultural tradition has focused mainly on the surroundings of Antigua and Tiscamanita.
Recognition: These tomatoes have earned a special place in European gastronomy, being considered among the tastiest on the continent. Their distinctive flavor has led them to be used in many renowned restaurants in Europe, becoming an essential ingredient for various culinary preparations.
Aloe vera
Location and Climate: Fuerteventura, with its particular climatic conditions, has become an ideal place for growing aloe vera. The semi-arid climate and soil composition provide a conducive environment for this plant to flourish.
Production and Benefits: Aloe vera is known for its many beneficial properties for health, especially for the skin. In Fuerteventura, this plant has been used to develop a wide range of products, from creams to drinks.
Local Economy: There are several local producers and distributors who have specialized in the cultivation and distribution of aloe vera. This industry has boosted the local economy, offering employment and promoting tourism related to health and well-being.
Majorero cheese
History and Origin: Majorero cheese is a legacy that dates back to the times of the Guanches, the first inhabitants of the Canary Islands. These aborigines found this food an essential source of nutrition and considered it a treasure.
Preparation and Characteristics. The excellence of Majorero cheese lies in its production process and the ingredients used. It is produced exclusively with Majorera goat milk, a species native to the island. The cheese has an unmatched flavor and texture: firm, but at the same time soft and with an intense and characteristic flavor. Additionally, it comes in three main varieties: “tender”, “semi-cured” and “cured”, each with distinctive characteristics and flavors.
Recognitions and Awards. Over the years, Majorero cheese has been awarded in various competitions, both national and international. Its quality and distinctive flavor have positioned it as one of the most appreciated cheeses not only in Spain, but in the world.
Appellation of origin. In 1999, Majorero cheese received the designation of origin, a recognition that guarantees its quality and tradition. This distinction has not only served to consolidate its position in the national market, but has also boosted its presence in international markets, further consolidating its reputation as a cheese of excellence.
mojo
Varieties: There are two main types of mojo: green and red. Green mojo is made mainly with parsley, while red mojo uses dried peppers and is spicier.
Uses: This sauce is versatile and is used in a variety of dishes, from meats to fish and potatoes.
Wrinkled potatoes:
Origin: Wrinkled potatoes are a specialty of the Canary Islands. Their name comes from their wrinkled appearance, which is the result of cooking them in water with a lot of salt.
Preparation and Consumption: These potatoes are traditionally served with mojo. They are a popular accompaniment to many dishes that any visitor should try.
Gofio
History: Gofio is a flour made from toasted wheat or millet. It is a legacy of the aborigines of Fuerteventura and has been a staple in the island’s diet for centuries.
Uses: Gofio is versatile and can be consumed in various ways, from mixed with milk to used in soups and stews.
Goat Meat
History and Symbolism: Majorera goats have been an integral part of the culture and economy of Fuerteventura for centuries. These animals, adapted to the island’s desert and arid landscape, have provided food and sustenance to its inhabitants.
Preparation and Flavor: The meat of these goats is known for its deep flavor and tender texture. It is commonly used in traditional stews, where it is cooked slowly until it reaches a melt-in-your-mouth softness. This meat is an authentic delicacy that reflects the rich culinary tradition of the island.
Majorero Pout
Origin and Characteristics: Puchero is a traditional stew in many regions of Spain. In Fuerteventura, this dish acquires a local flavor when it is prepared with goat or kid meat.
Ingredients and Preparation: The stew mAjorero combines goat meat with a variety of fresh vegetables, cooked slowly until obtaining a rich and hearty stew. It is a dish that reflects the essence of Fuerteventura’s homemade cuisine, full of flavor and tradition.
Pejines
Origin and Meaning: Fuerteventura, being an island, has a rich fishing tradition. Pejines are small fish that are caught off the coast and are a local delicacy.
Preparation and Tasting: These fish can be prepared in various ways: grilled, fried or even dried in the sun. They are served in portions and consumed whole, offering a unique gastronomic experience. They are often accompanied with a touch of lemon to enhance their flavor.
Limpets
Description and Origin: Limpets are mollusks that are found attached to rocks on the coasts of Fuerteventura. They have been a source of food for the island’s inhabitants for generations.
Preparation and Flavor: These mollusks are cooked in various ways, but one of the most traditional is accompanied by Canarian mojo. Limpets offer a fresh, salty taste of the sea, which is a delight for seafood lovers.
Came
Wine Tradition: Although Fuerteventura is not widely known for its wine production, it has a rich wine tradition that dates back centuries. Despite the island’s arid conditions, winegrowers have found innovative ways to grow grapes and produce quality wines.
Fuerteventura, with its rich gastronomic heritage, offers the world a palette of flavors and traditions that are intertwined with its history and culture. It is much more than a tourist destination; It is a gastronomic journey that invites you to discover flavors, textures and traditions that have endured over the centuries. Each Majorero product is a reflection of the dedication and effort of generations of Majoreros who have worked the land and the sea with passion. By trying each of these products, we not only taste food, but we experience a part of the Majorera culture, taking us on a culinary journey that celebrates the diversity and richness of this Canarian jewel. It is a legacy that Fuerteventura proudly offers to the world, enriching global gastronomy and strengthening the connection between cultures through food.
Fuerteventura is much more than a tourist destination; It is a gastronomic journey that invites you to discover flavors, textures and traditions that have endured over the centuries. Each Majorero product is a testimony of the passion, dedication and love of its people for their land.