Every region of Spain has its own specialities and foods ‘you really must try’, according to the locals, and the Balearic Island of Ibiza is no exception. From tapas (small plates of food to snack on), to heartier fare to desserts, Ibiza has a cuisine all its own which are a fusion of Mediterranean flavours, local ingredients and spices incorporated over generations. Here we run through a few of our favourites:
Sobrassada
Sobrassada is a traditional cured sausage that holds a special place in Ibiza’s gastronomy. Made from ground pork, paprika and other spices, it has a distinctive flavour and a vibrant red colour. Enjoy it spread on fresh, local bread or use it as a flavourful ingredient in various dishes.
Bullit de Peix
One of our favourites is the iconic Bullit de Peix, a traditional Ibiza fish stew. Made with freshly caught fish, potatoes, saffron, garlic and other aromatic herbs, this flavourful dish is a true representation of the island’s maritime heritage. Served in two parts, first with potatoes and fish in a light aioli sauce, then with rice cooked in the fish broth. Delicious and hearty, you won’t need to eat for a while after being served this dish!
Sofrit Pagès
Sofrit Pagès is a satisfying rustic dish that showcases Ibiza’s rural cuisine. It consists of a mix of various types of meat, such as chicken, lamb, and pork, cooked with potatoes, garlic, peppers and aromatic herbs. This slow-cooked delicacy is a true comfort food, perfect for warming up on those rare chilly evenings.
Guisat de Peix
Guisat de Peix is another popular fish stew that showcases the island’s bountiful seafood. Cooked with an assortment of fish, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, garlic and fragrant herbs, it is a flavoursome dish that highlights the freshness of the ingredients.
Frita de Porc
Frita de Porc is a traditional Ibiza pork dish that combines tender pork meat with tomatoes, onions, garlic and spices. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish offers a wonderful balance of flavours and textures. Savour it with a side of crusty bread and forget about your waistline!
Arroz de Matanzas
Arroz de Matanzas is a hearty rice dish that pays homage to Ibiza’s agricultural roots. It combines rice with various meats, such as pork, chicken and rabbit, as well as locally grown vegetables and aromatic herbs. This delicious one-pot meal is a true celebration of the island’s culinary heritage.
Cuinat
Not all of Ibiza’s culinary heritage is meat-based, with Cuinat representing a traditional Ibiza vegetable stew that reflects the island’s reliance on fresh produce. It combines seasonal vegetables, legumes and potatoes, simmered in a rich broth and flavoured with herbs and spices. This nutritious and comforting dish is a testament to Ibiza’s commitment to wholesome cuisine borne from necessity that is now prized as part of the culinary heritage.
Ensaïmada
No culinary journey in Ibiza would be complete without trying the famous Ensaïmada. This sweet swirl of pastry is a beloved island treat, characterised by its spiral shape and dusting of powdered sugar. Made with a rich dough and often filled with cream or other sweet fillings, it’s a delightful indulgence for any time of the day.
Greixonera
For those with a sweet tooth, Greixonera is a dessert that should not be missed. Similar to bread pudding, this traditional Ibiza dessert is made with ensaïmada leftovers (if you ever have any…), milk, sugar, eggs, cinnamon and lemon zest. The result is a creamy and aromatic delight that, like Proust’s madeleines, will forever take you back to Ibiza.
Flaó
Flaó is a traditional Ibiza cheesecake that is sure to satisfy any dessert lover. Made with a mixture of cow and sheep cheese, eggs, mint and aniseed, it has a unique flavour profile that is both rich and refreshing. Its distinct texture and aromatic notes make it a true local delicacy.
Just a few of the gastronomic delights indigenous to Ibiza, exploring Ibiza’s culinary landscape is a journey that will delight your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories. From the fresh catch of the sea to the hearty or more delicate flavours of the countryside, the island’s traditional dishes offer a diverse and vibrant gastronomic experience. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, a meat lover, or have a sweet tooth, Ibiza has something to satisfy every palate.
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