Food in Cape Verde

Cape Verde, an archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, beckons travelers with its vibrant music, diverse landscapes, and a delectable cuisine that mirrors its rich cultural tapestry. Influenced by African, Portuguese, and Brazilian culinary traditions, Cape Verdean food is a flavorful adventure for the palate, characterized by its use of fresh seafood, aromatic spices, and tropical fruits. As you plan your journey to this island nation, discover the essential dishes that encapsulate the heart of Cape Verdean culture and will leave you savoring each bite. Whether dining in a local tabanca or a seaside restaurant, the culinary experiences in Cape Verde are as unforgettable as its picturesque views.

Cape Verdean Dishes

Cachupa

Cachupa is the archetypal Cape Verdean dish and is often considered the national dish of the islands. It's a slow-cooked, hearty stew made from hominy corn, beans, cassava, sweet potato, and fish or meat (usually chorizo, pork, or chicken). There are variations of cachupa, with the richer version known as "Cachupa Rica" typically served on special occasions. It's a dish that reflects the history and cultural diversity of Cape Verde, blending indigenous, African, and European influences.

Bife de Atum (Tuna Steak)

Bife de Atum is a simple yet popular dish featuring fresh tuna steaks. The steaks are marinated in a blend of garlic, vinegar, and spices before being pan-fried. They are often served with a side of fried corn (xerém), potatoes, or rice, and sometimes accompanied by a fried egg on top. The dish showcases the abundance of fresh seafood in Cape Verde's coastal waters.

Polvo à la mode de Cap-Vert (Octopus Cape Verdean style)

Reflecting the islands' love for seafood, Polvo à la mode de Cap-Vert is a flavorful octopus dish. The octopus is tenderized, then stewed with onions, tomatoes, garlic, and a variety of spices. It's commonly served with a bed of rice or alongside other traditional sides like beans or vegetables.

Jagacida (Jag)

Jagacida, often simply referred to as Jag, is a beloved side dish in Cape Verde. It is a type of rice pilaf cooked with lima beans, and it's seasoned with bay leaves, garlic, and sometimes chorizo. It's a versatile dish that complements many main courses, particularly grilled fish or meat.

Canja de Galinha

Canja de Galinha is a comforting chicken soup that is a staple in Cape Verdean households. Made with chicken, rice, onions, and tomatoes, it's seasoned with fresh herbs and spices. This soup is often served as a warm and soothing meal, especially during colder months or as a remedy for the common cold.

Feijoada

Feijoada is a rich bean stew that's enjoyed in various forms across the Portuguese-speaking world, including Cape Verde. The Cape Verdean version typically includes beans, chorizo, pork, and sometimes other meats, all simmered together with vegetables. It's a filling and flavorful dish often eaten with rice or bread.

Lagostada

Lagostada is a luxurious seafood dish featuring lobster. The lobster is typically grilled or sautéed with a sauce made from butter, garlic, and local spices. It's a special treat that can be found in coastal restaurants, reflecting the islands' affinity for fresh, high-quality seafood.

Carne de Porco Alentejana

This dish is a fusion of land and sea, combining marinated pork cubes with clams, potatoes, and coriander. Carne de Porco Alentejana is a flavorful dish with a touch of sweetness from the marinated pork, balanced by the briny taste of the clams.

Cape Verdean Desserts

Bolo de Milho (Corn Cake)

Bolo de Milho is a traditional Cape Verdean cornbread that is sweet, dense, and often enjoyed as a dessert or snack. Made with cornmeal, sugar, butter, and sometimes coconut, it's a simple yet satisfying treat that pairs well with a cup of Cape Verdean coffee or tea.

Pudim de Queijo (Cheese Pudding)

Pudim de Queijo is a unique dessert made from fresh cheese, eggs, sugar, and cinnamon. It's a creamy, custard-like pudding that offers a sweet and tangy flavor profile, showcasing the island's dairy produce in an unexpected and delightful way.

Doce de Papaya (Papaya Sweet)

Doce de Papaya is a vibrant and sweet confection made from papaya and sugar, often flavored with cloves and cinnamon. It's usually served as a dessert or used as a jam-like spread on bread or crackers. The dish highlights the tropical fruit that grows abundantly on the islands.

Doce de Leite (Milk Candy)

Doce de Leite is a rich and creamy sweet made by slowly cooking milk with sugar until it caramelizes into a thick paste. This sweet treat is similar to dulce de leche and can be enjoyed on its own or as a topping for other desserts.

Doce de Coco (Coconut Candy)

Doce de Coco is a simple yet delectable sweet made from grated coconut, sugar, and sometimes a hint of vanilla or cinnamon. It's formed into small balls or squares and is often enjoyed as a bite-sized snack or dessert.