Gastronomy

MERCADAL

Gastronomy

The towns of Mercadal and Fornells have a well-deserved reputation throughout the island for their fine cuisine. The authentic specialty of the municipality's restaurants is typical Menorcan dishes, the main secret of which lies in the use of the most natural and healthy ingredients: fish caught by the Menorcan fleet, which continues to use artisanal techniques, and local produce grown by the farmers. The activity of the port of Fornells allows one to taste some of the most delicious fish and shellfish in dishes such as stuffed squid, fish stew (caldereta), dogfish, ray, scorpion fish (cap roig), panadera (a baked fish dish), and fish soups. Having lobster stew (caldereta de langosta) while overlooking the illuminated bay of Fornells has become a true ritual for visitors. Some of the most traditional Menorcan dishes still prepared in Mercadal are "oliaigua amb figues", stuffed eggplants and zucchini, and "arroz de la tierra" (a local wheat-based dish), baked potatoes with meat, fish, octopus or onion, fava beans and noodles, and yellow pumpkin with beans. Pastry making also holds a privileged place in Mercadal, a town famous for its sweet pastries made from ancient recipes. In addition to "amargos" and "carquinyols", prepared with almonds, the visitor can savor "caramelos de crocante", "mantecados", "crespellines", "pastissets", and "palos".