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The beautiful, sunny Algarve coastlines of Portugal attract millions of tourists each year, most of which are British. Despite this invasion of tourists, the area is mostly unspoiled, maintaining its charm, charisma and vibrant local culture. Although most tourists are there mainly for the climate and beaches (sun, sea, sand and surf), there is a very distinctive and rare culture that has remained unaffected by the streams of foreign visitors that should definitely be explored by the more adventurous tourist. The Portuguese have their own distinct style of cooking, which is surprisingly different from that of Spain, despite their proximity. The Algarve, although located within Portugal, has managed to keep its identity with regional specialities different to the rest of the country, based primarily on seafood and other meats and vegetables produced on local farms by local people. This region was originally dominated by the fishing industry and is still inhabited by fishermen who provide an abundance of fresh fish daily. Main meals are usually based on sardines, tuna, cockles, clams and other shellfish, as the thriving coastline provides high quality seafood all year round. Regional specialities include slow grilled red mullet, razor clams, octopus, squid or cuttlefish (both cooked in ink), bean stew with whelks and fish stew-there are many more and all are worth a try! Don`t worry if you`re not a lover of seafood, as there is a wide variety of other meat specialities available too! Sautéed or grilled steak "bife à Portuguesa" is a local favourite and usually cooked in port wine sauce, along with the kebab "espetadas" which is marinated in wine and garlic. Pork is also widely eaten in this region, as local farming practices allow the pigs to consume the acorns and white truffles spread across the farming region of Alentejo, so don`t miss the "carne de porco a alentajana"-diced pork marinated with red peppers and clams. Delicious! In case your taste buds aren`t tingling yet, there`s still more! From chicken, turkey, partridge and even pigeon can be found on this vibrant menu, the most famous of which is "Piri Piri chicken". Portuguese wines are renowned and it is worth trying local wineries or asking the opinions of local people to find out recommended wines. Most people favour the red wines on offer however the Algarve itself is not usually deemed the best region for wines in Portugal (for wines, try the neighbouring region of Alentejo). "Vinho Verde" is Portugal`s own unique white wine, as well as "Planalto Douro Reserva" and "Casa de Pacos" are all widely recommended. Try restaurants such as the Papagaio at Vale de Lobo Praça and Caniço in Prainha, as well as smaller local establishments, in order to get a feel for the diverse culture and taste the best local dishes. Tapas and wine bars are a must, such as "Meu Limao" in Lagos and if you try back streets or local fishing villages you might find your very own tiny tapas restaurant with it`s own individual amazing delights on the menu. There are plenty of holiday packages available for both the "tanning tourists" and the "adventurers", including wine tasting weekends, so why not plan your tasty Algarve holiday today and treat your taste buds to the trip of a lifetime?! |
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