The Food in Cabo Verde

The Gastronomy of Cabo Verde

The ingredients and dishes mentioned represent the richness and diversity of Cape Verdean cuisine. The combination of fresh seafood, versatile basic ingredients, and flavorful dishes makes the gastronomy of Cabo Verde unique and full of unforgettable flavors. Traditional beverages like Pontche and Grogue complete the culinary offering, providing an experience that reflects the vibrant culture of the islands. While exploring Cabo Verde, allow yourself to savor these delights and discover the true essence of its cuisine.

Let's explore some of the key elements that make Cabo Verdean cuisine truly special.

Seafood and Fish

Cabo Verde offers a wide variety of fresh seafood and fish, essential to the local diet. Notable examples include:

Lobster: Tender and juicy, often grilled or used in special dishes.

Crab: Frequently served in soups or as a main course.

Octopus: Prepared in various ways, including salads and stews.

Tuna: Abundant, typically grilled or used in stews.

Wahoo: A flavorful fish, popular in grilled dishes.

Whelk: Known for its unique taste, often incorporated in traditional recipes.

Kitchen Staples

Cape Verdean cuisine values basic ingredients that are prepared in multiple ways:

Corn: The base for many dishes, it can be boiled, turned into flour for couscous, or used as cornmeal.

Pork: Common in various recipes, often combined with vegetables.

Beans: A popular and nutrient-rich complement.

Cassava: Used in both savory and sweet dishes.

Sweet potato: Versatile and tasty, frequently combined with other vegetables and meats.

Typical Dishes

Among the emblematic dishes of Cape Verdean cuisine, the most notable include:

Cachupa: Considered the national dish, this hearty stew is made with corn, beans, meat or fish, and vegetables. There is a richer version ("cachupa rica") that includes a wider variety of ingredients and a simpler version ("cachupa pobre").

Cornmeal: Mainly used in desserts and porridges.

Couscous: Made from corn, it is a staple side dish for breakfast or main meals.

Corn pastel: Delicious fried pastries filled with various ingredients like fish, cheese, or vegetables.

Traditional Beverages

Drinks are also an important part of the Cape Verdean culinary experience:

Pontche: A fragrant homemade liqueur often made with rum, sugar, and fruits like lemon.

Grogue: The traditional liquor of Cabo Verde, distilled from sugar cane. It is highly appreciated both locally and by visitors.

Cape Verdean Dishes to Try

Welcome to Saudade de Cabo Verde, where each dish tells a story and delivers the true essence of Cape Verdean cuisine. Enjoy your culinary journey with us! 

Bafas: Fish cooked with tomatoes, onions, and peppers, then breaded and fried. Served as a snack or an appetizer, it's crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor inside.

Buzio: A delectable traditional slow-cooked stew made with shellfish, typically mussels, and flavored with soy sauce. This dish beautifully highlights the bounty of the sea. --->  see video

Cachupa : Cape Verde's national dish, a rich and hearty stew made with a variety of fish, meat, and vegetables. It's a must-try for anyone wanting to experience authentic Cape Verdean flavors.---> see video

Caldo de Peixe : A nutritious and flavorful dish featuring potatoes, pumpkin, carrots, and other vegetables cooked with fish, usually mackerel, and tomato puree. It's a wholesome meal that's both nourishing and delicious.--> see video

Canja: A soothing soup made with chicken, rice, onions, and carrots. This dish is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.---> see video

Bife de Atum Acebolado Tuna steak sautéed with onions. This dish highlights the freshness of the tuna complemented by the sweet and savory flavor of caramelized onions. -> see video

Cracas: A type of crustacean shellfish enjoyed for its unique, tender meat. It's a true taste of the ocean, and perfect for seafood lovers.

Feijoada: A hearty pork stew made with beans and vegetables. This dish is comforting and filling, with deep, rich flavors.

Lagosta cozida: Steamed lobster, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. This dish is a luxurious treat, perfect for any special occasion.

Morreia: Eel, expertly fried in oil until crispy and delicious. It's a unique seafood option that delivers a tasteful crunch.

Percebes (Sea Fingers): These unique shellfish look like purply-brown fingers. You crack off the end and peel back the skin to reveal the tender meat inside, which has a texture similar to squid.

Queijo de Cabra com Doce de Popoia: A typical dessert featuring slices of cabra cheese paired with sweet popoia jam. The combination of savory and sweet makes for an unforgettable end to any meal.

Tuna Tartar: Raw tuna chopped and marinated in a soy dressing. This dish offers a delightful balance of savory and umami flavors.