Mojos & Papas — Canarian Cuisine

🥔 Papas Arrugadas

Small potatoes cooked in ultra-salty water

• Cooking: very salty water (brine)
• Result: white crystallized skin
• Appearance: wrinkled ("arrugadas")
• Accompaniment: mojos (very important)

A must-try starter, served with sauce.

🌶️ Mojos

Mojo Verde

• Fresh coriander
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• White vinegar
• Cumin
• Salt

Accompanies: fish, vegetables, papas

Taste: fresh, herbal, slight acidity.

Mojo Picón (Red)

• Dried peppers (the base)
• Garlic
• Paprika
• Cumin
• Olive oil
• Vinegar

Accompanies: mainly meat

Taste: spicy (moderately hot).

🍲 Ropa Vieja

Traditional savory stew:

• Chickpeas
• Shredded meat
• Bell peppers
• Tomatoes
• Chervil

A long-simmered dish, very flavorful.

🥣 Escaldón

Gofio porridge in fish broth

• Gofio essence (direct Guanche heritage)
• Preparation: gofio + hot broth
• Texture: creamy
• Taste: umami, comforting

Breakfast or starter.

🍯 Bienmesabe

Sweet almond cream with lemon

Signature dessert of Tenerife:

• Almonds (base)
• Sugar
• Lemon zest & juice
• Texture: smooth cream

Very sweet, delicious, best enjoyed with coffee.

Queso Fresco de Chèvre

Local fresh cheese from Tenerife:

• Texture: tender, creamy
• Flavor: slightly acidic
• Use: cheese board, cooking