Hello! Come along as we take a tour of the cuisine of Málaga. As a coastal area, this region boasts an immense variety of dishes, where fish and seafood naturally stand out. This feature is one of the region’s attractions, making it popular among national and international tourists. You might not know that there is another side to Málaga’s gastronomy. With a short trip to the inland villages of the province, we find other highlights: lomo in manteca colorá, fried eggs with chorizo and peppers, and oxtail. Lastly, there’s nothing better than a sweet wine from the region accompanying a traditional dessert.
Join us on this gastronomic journey through the most typical dishes of Málaga: irresistible proposals ranging from fish to enjoy on the beach to the most representative desserts. We’ll tell you how to make the most of the gourmet pleasures of the region.
Traditional dishes from Málaga that will enchant you
Visiting Málaga is a rich experience with something for everyone, and naturally, the food is not to be missed. Málaga’s cuisine is perfect for complementing the sun and sea breeze: fish, seafood, cold soups, and fruity desserts are some of the highlights we will explore below. But we promise there are many more typical dishes from Málaga to discover.
Espetos
Espetos are a typical dish from Málaga and perhaps the most well-known. Usually, made with sardines, but alternative small fish can also be used. Traditionally, espetos are prepared on the beach, where the blend of grill and sea aromas provides an unforgettable sensory experience. This dish, with a squeeze of lemon, is best enjoyed with a cold beer or a wine from the region.
Ajoblanco
Ajoblanco can be found all over Andalusia and is a true homage to the Mediterranean diet. It is a cold soup, served as an appetizer or side dish. Perfect for hot days, it features ingredients that refresh both body and soul: almonds, garlic, bread, olive oil, and vinegar, ideal for combining with contrasting flavours like melon or grapes. In addition to being light and refreshing, it has high nutritional value.
Bocadillos camperos
Camperos sandwiches are popular in Málaga, made by filling a round, rustic bread with chicken fillet, cheese, lettuce, and tomato, along with generous amounts of sauces and ham. They are ideal for taking on a mountain excursion or for a picnic, allowing you to enjoy the cuisine of Málaga while appreciating the views, just like true locals.
Chivo lechal malagueño
Malagueño suckling goat is another delicacy from the province of Málaga. This dish consists of roasted or stewed kid goat, known for its tender meat and delicate flavour, which has a certified origin and can only be found in this region. When preparing it, it is important to marinate the meat with extra virgin olive oil, white wine, bay leaves, garlic, and other spices. This preparation method makes the meat juicy and delicious, and it is typically served with potatoes, salad, and peppers, making it a traditional dish at local festivals.
Fritura malagueña
Málaga-style fried fish is one of the most common foods from Málaga and a dish that perfectly fits this region. It consists of expertly fried fish and seafood, such as squid, anchovies, red mullet, prawns, hake, octopus, marinated dogfish, and others. They are deep-fried until they have an irresistible crispy texture, preserving the rich flavours of the fresh ingredients. This dish is served hot and is best enjoyed with a cold beer by the sea.
Caldillo de pintarroja
This typical Málaga dish is a traditional fishermen’s soup that is quite spicy. Pintarroja is a fish from the shark family, and the broth is made with oil, almonds, garlic, fried bread, and tomato. The pintarroja is then cooked with clams, and the broth is seasoned with chilli, saffron, lemon, and mint.
Tortas locas
If you have a sweet tooth, then this dessert from Malaga cannot be missed! The famous Tortas Locas are simple yet delicious and unforgettable. Made with layers of puff pastry filled with custard, topped with a light layer of orange fondant and a cherry on top, this sweet treat is loved by locals and tourists. Perfect to accompany coffee or tea during a snack or to top off a good meal in style. You can even pair it with a glass of sweet wine from the region!
We could go on and on about the other dishes from Malaga that you must try, that also deserve to be on this list, such as the hearty sopa perota, the refreshing porra antequerana, the Málaga salad with cod and orange, conchas finas, and aubergines with cane honey, for example. Prepare for your trip to Málaga and try all these delights, which everyone loves.
Visit Málaga and try the exquisite gastronomy!
We all know the beauty of this region, from its beaches to the impressive mountains that offer stunning views, but there is a lesser-known gem: Málaga’s cuisine. This region is perfect for discovering fresh ingredients, from fruits and vegetables to fresh seafood and fish. Being at a beach bar, with your feet in the sand, a very cold beer, and a plate of fried fish or espetos is an unbeatable pleasure. The traditional food of Málaga is a celebration of Mediterranean flavours and Andalusian culinary tradition. Whether in a bustling market or a seaside restaurant, the local cuisine promises an unforgettable journey of flavours.
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