Santa Cruz da Graciosa

Queijadas da Graciosa are an emblematic sweet from the island, with a rich history and a traditional recipe passed down through generations. Made with fresh milk, eggs, and sugar, these small tarts have a smooth texture and a delicate flavor, being made artisanally. They represent conventual confectionery and the abundance of dairy products on the island, being a symbol of its gastronomic identity.

Caldeirada de Peixe is a robust and flavorful dish, reflecting the island's strong connection to the sea and fishing. It is made with various types of fresh local fish, caught in the surrounding waters of Graciosa. The ingredients include potatoes, onions, garlic, tomatoes, peppers, and aromatic herbs, slow-cooked so that the flavors meld, resulting in a rich and comforting stew that celebrates Atlantic produce.

Polvo Guisado is a highly appreciated delicacy in Graciosa, benefiting from the freshness of octopus caught in the island's coastal waters. Prepared traditionally, the octopus is slow-cooked with onions, garlic, tomatoes, wine, and spices until tender and succulent. This dish represents home cooking and the local wisdom in transforming simple sea ingredients into meals full of flavor and tradition.

Melindres are small traditional sweets, delicate and soft, made with eggs, sugar, and flour, and often decorated with a thin layer of glaze. Their preparation is an art passed down among Graciosa families, being a sweet that evokes celebrations and the simplicity of conventual confectionery. They represent the island's ability to create distinct delicacies from basic, local ingredients.