One of the great things about visiting Madeira at any time of the year is the excellent food. The islanders absolutely love their food, they take it very seriously and have a great pride in it. Which is one of the great bonuses of visiting the island’s Atlantic Festival. It’s not at all difficult to find wonderful food, from the classic basic “prego no bolo do caco” sandwich (a local flatbread filled with served with garlic butter and thin beef steak, as well as salad, ham, cheese egg to name but a few additions) through to sophisticated seafood feasts. 

Not surprisingly Madeira majors in seafood, and they do it very well indeed. It’s not just the amazing local tuna or the strange but delicious “scabbard fish” that creates head-lines on menus. The islanders are addicted to the humble limpet - and when you get to eat a plate-full, you can taste why. Simply grilled with oil, lemon juice and lots of garlic, they are a sensation! Yes, the variety of limpet is a little different from ours (smaller, in a shallower shell) but it does beg the question why one Atlantic people can go mad over a delicious and nutritious dish that another, mysteriously, ignores completely. More fool us, I say. 

If you really want to see why Madeira food is so wonderful, then all you have to do is visit Funchal’s wonderful old market - especially on a Friday or a Saturday when local farmers come down from the mountains to sell their produce. 

I have visited a lot of produce markets around the world - in fact, it is the nearest thing I have to a hobby - but I believe it might be true to say that the standard of fruit, fish and vegetables you see in Funchal market is the best anywhere on the planet.

Why? When it comes to the stuff they grow, the mountainous island is blessed with the richest of volcanic soils. Add wall-to-wall sunshine, ocean-cooled temperatures and plenty of mountain rainfall and you have a veg gardener’s idea of heaven. 

As for the seafood, there’s not much fishing competition so far out into the ocean - and the clean extremely deep waters are rich in many species.      

Spend a week in Madeira and you will only begin to scratch the surface when it comes to what the island can offer, be it with food, wine, scenic walks or simply enjoying a thousand different views. 

Madeira's cuisine is a reflection of its geographical location and historical influences. Positioned in the Atlantic Ocean, the island's access to fresh seafood is unparalleled. Additionally, the fertile volcanic soil produces a variety of fruits and vegetables that contribute to the local diet. Over centuries, Portuguese, African, and even British influences have melded to create a distinctive culinary tradition.

Key Ingredients in Madeiran Cooking

The staples of Madeiran cuisine include a variety of fresh fish, meats, tropical fruits, and vegetables. Some of the most notable ingredients are:

• Espada (Black Scabbardfish): This deep-sea fish is a delicacy in Madeira, often served with banana or passion fruit sauce.

• Bacalhau (Salted Cod): A Portuguese staple, bacalhau is prepared in numerous ways, including in stews and casseroles.

• Sweet Potatoes and Yams: These are commonly used in soups and side dishes.

• Exotic Fruits: Passion fruit, mango, and custard apple are widely grown and used in desserts and drinks.

Traditional Madeiran Dishes

1. Espetada: This is a skewered beef dish marinated with garlic, salt, and bay leaves, then grilled over open flames. Traditionally, it is cooked on laurel skewers, which add a distinctive flavor.

2. Bolo do Caco: A round, flatbread made from wheat flour and sweet potato, bolo do caco is typically served with garlic butter and is a must-try.

3. Picado: A popular communal dish, picado consists of small pieces of beef cooked with garlic, wine, and spices, served with fries or bread.

4. Sopa de Trigo: This hearty wheat soup often includes vegetables, beans, and sometimes meat, reflecting the island's agricultural bounty.

5. Lapas: Grilled limpets seasoned with garlic, butter, and lemon are a seafood lover's delight.

Unique Beverages of Madeira

• Madeira Wine: Perhaps the most famous product of the island, Madeira wine comes in various styles ranging from dry to sweet. It is often used in cooking and as a dessert wine.

• Poncha: A traditional alcoholic beverage made from distilled alcohol (aguardente), honey, sugar, and lemon juice, poncha is both refreshing and potent. This is me trying out poncha in the video.

Culinary Experiences in Madeira

Visitors to Madeira can immerse themselves in the local food culture by visiting traditional markets, such as Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal. Here, they can sample a wide array of fresh produce and seafood. Many restaurants and eateries offer traditional dishes, ensuring an authentic taste of the island's culinary heritage.

Madeiran cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavours and traditions. The island's culinary offerings are a testament to its rich cultural history and bountiful natural resources. From savory espetada to sweet Madeira wine, the food of Madeira provides a delightful exploration for any food enthusiast. When planning a visit to Madeira, be sure to indulge in the local dishes that make this island a true gastronomic treasure.

One recommendation I can make is to visit Theo’s - https://theos.pt/

PR 19 - Caminho Real do Paul do Mar - Visit Madeira | Madeira Islands Tourism Board official website

Atlantic Festival 2024 - Programme by Visit Madeira - Issuu

Madeira Rum - Visit Madeira | Madeira Islands Tourism Board official website

Engenho do Norte - Visit Madeira | Madeira Islands Tourism Board official website