When we travel, we are not only looking for beaches, history or landscapes. We also want to savour the essence of each place. In the case of the Alicante's gastronomyWe are talking about a cuisine that is rich, varied and deeply rooted in the Mediterranean. With Moorish influences, fresh ingredients from the garden and the sea, and a tradition that mixes slow cooking with intense flavours, every mouthful tells a story.
In this article, we take you on a journey through the 10 most typical dishes of the gastronomy in AlicanteWe recommend the perfect place for those who want to experience an authentic and memorable gastronomic holiday. And finally, we recommend the perfect accommodation to unwind after every culinary experience: our charming Rural House Ca Sana in Teulada Moraira.
1. Arroz con costra: an essential part of Alicante's gastronomy.
The rice with crust is a real gem of Alicante cuisine. This dish combines rice, sausages, rabbit or chicken meat and is finished with beaten egg which is baked to form a crispy golden crust.
- Origin: Elche area and surroundings.
- Curiosity: It was traditionally baked in a family wood-fired oven.
Undoubtedly one of the most representative dishes of the Alicante's gastronomy.
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2. Arroz del señoret: a taste of the sea in its purest form.
The señoret rice is one of the most popular among visitors to the Costa Blanca. It is a dry seafood rice dish, where all the ingredients are peeled, so that the diner does not have to get his hands dirty. Hence its name: "misterito".
- Ingredients: squid, prawns, rock fish, garlic, pepper and fish stock.
- Ideal for: those who want to enjoy the sea without complications.
This dish is a delicacy that should not be missed if we want to get to know in depth the alicantine gastronomy.
3. Olleta alicantina: the most comforting stew
The olleta alicantina is a traditional stew that combines vegetables, rice and meats such as ribs or bacon. It is a humble dish, of peasant origin, ideal for cooler days or after a long day.
- Main ingredients: beans, rice, spinach, turnip, black pudding.
- Popular version: the olleta de músicwhich incorporates nuts.
A tribute to slow cooking and tradition, a must on any wine route. typical food from Alicante.
4. Caldero alicantino: a taste of the bay
This seafood dish originates from Tabarca and Santa Pola. The caldero alicantino is prepared with rock fish slowly cooked in a broth with ñoras (black peppers), garlic and tomato. The fish is served on the side and the broth is used to cook rice.
- A full meal: two dishes in one: fish and rice.
- Suggestion: accompanied by aiolithe flavour is intensified.
Caldero is one of those dishes that connects directly with the gastronomy in Alicante more authentic.
5. Pericana: the essence of mountain cuisine
The pericana is a traditional starter from the inland area of Alicante. It is made with dried peppers (cuarnicabra), salted cod, garlic and olive oil. Everything is mixed cold to create a tasty and hearty dish.
- How is it served? With village bread or "regañás".
- Perfect for: lovers of intense flavour and rural tradition.
A clear example of how the alicantine gastronomy is not limited to rice and the sea.
6. Coca amb tonyina: the Hogueras pastry
One of the most symbolic dishes of the Alicante fiestas. The coca amb tonyina (coca with tuna) is prepared with a thin dough filled with salted tuna (tonyina de sorra), onion and pine nuts.
- Traditional from: the celebrations of St. John's Day.
- Sweet or salty: some versions incorporate touches of sugar in the dough.
If you are looking for traditional dishes from alicanteyou can't miss this festive treat.
7. Esgarraet alicantino: freshness with character
Although the esgarraet is originally from Valencia, in Alicante it has a very popular variant. The esgarraet alicantino combines roasted peppers, crumbled cod and olive oil, all served cold.
- Light and tasty: ideal as a tapa or starter.
- Name: comes from the verb tearwhich means "to tear" in Valencian.
A fresh, simple recipe, perfect as an appetizer for any holiday menu. Alicante's gastronomy.
8. Turrón de Jijona: the most famous sweet from Alicante
We cannot speak of Alicante's gastronomy without mentioning its most international product: the Jijona nougat. Although we associate it with Christmas, it is becoming more and more common all year round, even in the form of ice cream.
- Elaborated with: ground almonds, honey, sugar and egg white.
- Varieties: Jijona (soft) and Alicante (hard, with whole almonds).
Local pride and gastronomic symbol of the province.
9. Nougat ice-cream: tradition reinvented
Continuing with sweet flavours, the nougat ice cream is a modern reinterpretation of classic flavours. In artisan ice cream parlours in Dénia, Altea or Moraira, you will find authentic gems made with local products.
- Suggestion: Serve with sugared almonds.
- Perfect for: close any Alicante menu.
Because the gastronomy Alicante It also adapts to the times without losing its essence.
10. Mistela: the finishing touch to an Alicante meal.
The mistela is a sweet wine typical of the Marina Alta region, very common as an accompaniment to desserts or as a toast on special occasions. It is made with muscatel grapes and has a smooth and aromatic flavour.
- Where to try it: in local wineries or as a digestive in restaurants.
- Recommendation: combine it with traditional sweets such as aniseed rolls.
Close your gastronomic experience with this emblematic drink from the typical food from Alicante.
Where to stay to enjoy the gastronomy in Alicante
If you want to explore all these flavours at your leisure, the ideal place to stay is in a strategic location full of charm. That's why we recommend our Rural House Ca Sana in Teulada Moraira.
- Advantages:
- Close to the main gastronomic routes.
- Quiet and natural surroundings, ideal for relaxing after a good lunch.
- Traditional style with all the comforts.
- Close to the main gastronomic routes.
A place designed for those who want to experience Alicante with all their senses.
The gastronomy of Alicante, a journey for the palate
Travelling to the Alicante province is an experience that goes far beyond sun and beach. Its cuisine speaks of history, tradition, local produce and Mediterranean identity.
From rice with crust to Jijona nougat, and from stews to unique tapas, the Alicante's gastronomy is a treat for the senses. If you are planning a gastronomic holidays on the Costa BlancaLet yourself be carried away by its flavours... and of course, stay in an environment that accompanies this experience: Rural House Ca Sana in Teulada Moraira.
Because the best journey is the one that is also savoured.
