Fish is an essential element in the cuisine of all the Canary Islands, and La palma seafood is a must during your vacation. Among the most representative fish of the beautiful island are Vieja and Alfonsino, frequently enjoyed in the region. Typically, fish is consumed grilled or fried, as in the case of fried moray eel.
Eating fish in La Palma: enjoy the exquisite Canary Vieja fish
The Vieja (Sparisoma cretense), or “parrotfish”, is a native white fish of the Canary Islands, characterized by its delicate flavor similar to seafood. This is due to its specialized mouth with strong teeth that allow it to feed on species like crabs. The Vieja inhabits subtropical seas such as the northeastern Atlantic, from southern Portugal and the Gulf of Cádiz to Senegal, and its size ranges between 30 and 70 centimeters. Accompanied by wrinkled potatoes and mojo sauce, this dish is a guaranteed hit and a gastronomic reference in the islands.
Savor the Alfonsiño fish: a delicious delicacy from the waters of La Palma
The Alfonsiño (Beryx splendens) is a reddish-colored, medium-sized fish, between 20 and 30 centimeters, common in the tropical and temperate waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. It is appreciated for its white meat and delicate flavor.
Don’t miss the opportunity to eat fish in La Palma. The Vieja and Alfonsiño showcase the best of Palmera and Canary cuisine, offering a unique and unforgettable gastronomic experience. So, when you’re on the beautiful island, make sure to taste these exquisite local fish and immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of the Atlantic Ocean.
The island offers a wide variety of restaurants specializing in fresh fish and seafood, meaning you can enjoy a unique gastronomic experience wherever you go. Fish dishes are often made with fresh, simple local ingredients, highlighting the natural flavor of the product.
If you prefer a meal by the sea, the beachfront restaurants of Tazacorte are an excellent choice. Here you can enjoy a romantic or family dinner with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. If you prefer a more historical setting, head to the old town of Santa Cruz or San Andrés and Sauces, where you’ll find charming restaurants with a more traditional ambiance.
Not just Vieja and Alfonsiño, other Canary fish you’ll find in top La Palma seafood
Canary fish is a culinary treasure reflecting the richness of the Atlantic ocean surrounding these islands. Among the most outstanding species are red tuna, wahoo, sea bass, grouper, snapper, and moray eel, along with limpets.
Red tuna, with its juicy and flavorful meat, is a staple in local dishes.
Wahoo, a highly valued Canary fish, provides a firm texture and a distinctive flavor, used in traditional recipes.
Sea bass, known for its tender meat and mild flavor similar to sole, is expertly prepared in coastal restaurants.
Grouper, a white-fleshed Atlantic fish that can weigh up to 11 kg and measure 90 cm.
The snapper, with its lean and sweet meat, is used in stews and grilled preparations, emphasizing the flavor of the sea.
Although moray eel is less common in dishes, it stars in traditional soups and stews. In La Palma, you can find numerous typical fish restaurants offering tasty dishes of fried moray eel.
Limpets, marine mollusks, are also a Canary delight. They are grilled, usually with a mix of mojo sauce and garlic, enhancing their unique flavor.
In La Palma’s restaurants, Canary fish is presented with simplicity, highlighting its freshness and flavor. Mainly, it’s cooked grilled or baked, retaining its inherent quality. This exquisite delicacy is served with wrinkled potatoes and mojo sauce, elements that enhance its native character. Alternatively, it’s also common to accompany it with vegetable sides, enriching the culinary experience and celebrating the richness of local gastronomy.
Would you like to accompany your la palma seafood dish with a quality local wine?
La Palma wines are known for their freshness, acidity, and fruity aroma. They are ideal to pair with fish and seafood, as well as white meats and poultry.
Some of the La Palma wines that pair well with fish are:
Nispero Wine
A young white wine made from the Albillo blanco variety. It’s a fresh, fruity wine with apple, pear, and citrus notes. It pairs well with white fish and seafood.
Vega Norte Wine (White)
A white wine made from Listán Blanco and native Albillo grape varieties. It’s a wine with a fruity, tropical aroma, with notes of mango, pineapple, banana, and melon.
Vega Norte Rose Wine
A dry rosé wine made from 95% Negramoll grape variety.
Malvasía Wine Victoria Torres
A dry white wine made from volcanic Malvasía grape grown in Fuencaliente. It’s an intense wine with a fruity and floral aroma.
These are just a few examples of the many La Palma wines that pair well with fish. If you’re looking for a fresh, fruity, and light wine, a white wine from La Palma is an excellent choice.
