Espetada
Espetada da Madeira
'Espetada' is one of the most iconic dishes of Madeira's traditional cuisine. Present at every local festivity and gathering, this delicacy not only conveys the authentic flavour of the region but also reflects the simplicity and warm hospitality of the Madeiran people.
Today, any social occasion is a good reason to gather around the skewers and the grill, and share the regional espetada. In the past, due to the cost of beef, this dish was only consumed by some families during religious celebrations and special events such as pilgrimages and local festivals.
The secret of the espetada lies in its simplicity, both in preparation and seasoning. The unique flavour that garlic, bay leaf, and the charcoal grill give to the meat creates an irresistible combination that delights the palate.
When it comes to choosing what to serve with this delight, the choice is almost obvious: fried cornmeal. And if the espetada is served at a local festival, it’s almost certain you’ll find someone enjoying it with wine mixed with laranjada - a Madeiran soft drink produced since 1872, traditionally combined with wine to soften the alcohol content.
For those just visiting who prefer to enjoy espetada at the comfort of a table, without worrying about the preparation, there are many restaurants in Madeira and Porto Santo that prepare it with mastery. Even though bay laurel skewers are often replaced by metal ones nowadays, the flavour remains divine.
The regional espetada is the true essence of Madeira: simple, authentic, and irresistible. The chunks of beef roasted on a bay laurel stick create the perfect combination of flavour and tradition.
