Cabo Verde
Food Safety Tips
Essential food safety information to help you enjoy Cabo Verde's cuisine safely and confidently.
Check food hygiene standards in Cabo Verde
While Cabo Verde generally has good food hygiene standards, it's always wise to choose restaurants that appear clean and well-maintained.
Drink bottled water in Cabo Verde
In Cabo Verde, it's recommended to drink bottled water, especially in rural areas where water quality may vary.
Be cautious with street food in Cabo Verde
Street food in Cabo Verde can be delicious and safe, but choose vendors with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
Be mindful of street food hygiene.
While street food can be a delicious experience, choose vendors with good hygiene practices. Look for clean stalls and proper food handling.
Dietary Options
vegetarian
MEDIUM AVAILABILITYVegetarian options are increasingly available in Cabo Verde, particularly in urban areas and tourist destinations.
vegan
LOW AVAILABILITYVegan options can be limited in Cabo Verde, as many traditional dishes include animal products. However, major cities may have specialized restaurants.
gluten-free
LOW AVAILABILITYFinding gluten-free options in Cabo Verde can be challenging. Consider learning key phrases to explain your dietary needs.
Common Allergens
Nuts
MEDIUM PREVALENCEVarious nuts are common in Cabo Verde's cuisine, particularly in desserts and some savory dishes.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Dairy
HIGH PREVALENCEDairy products are widely used in Cabo Verde, featuring in many traditional dishes.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Wheat
HIGH PREVALENCEWheat is a staple in Cabo Verde's cuisine, used in bread, pastries, and many other foods.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Essential Food Experiences
These iconic dishes represent the must-have culinary experiences that define Cabo Verde's food culture for travelers.
Cachupa (Cachupa)
A slow-cooked stew considered the national dish, made with corn, beans, vegetables, and often meat or fish. Variations exist across the islands, reflecting the local ingredients and traditions.
Caldo de Peixe (Fish Stew)
A flavorful fish stew with potatoes, vegetables, and spices. Often served with a side of rice or cachupa.
Regional Specialties & Local Favorites
Discover the authentic regional dishes and local favorites that showcase Cabo Verde's diverse culinary traditions.
Pastel com diablo dentro (Pastel with the devil inside)
A savory pastry filled with spicy tuna, often enjoyed as a snack.
Allergens:
Buzio (Sea Snail)
A popular appetizer, often served grilled or in a spicy sauce.
Allergens:
Regional Cuisine Highlights
Explore the diverse culinary landscapes across different regions of Cabo Verde.
São Vicente
Known for its fresh seafood and vibrant culinary scene influenced by its port city history.
Cultural Significance:
São Vicente's cuisine reflects its history as a major port, blending influences from different cultures.
Signature Dishes:
- Cachupa Rica
- Caldo de Peixe
Key Ingredients:
Santo Antão
Characterized by its agricultural abundance, with dishes featuring fresh produce, goat cheese, and grogue.
Cultural Significance:
Santo Antão's cuisine showcases the island's agricultural heritage, with a focus on local ingredients.
Signature Dishes:
- Carne de Porco com Feijão (Pork with Beans)
- Grogue
Key Ingredients:
Fogo
Known for its volcanic wines and unique coffee, as well as dishes featuring local beans and vegetables.
Cultural Significance:
Fogo's cuisine is shaped by its volcanic landscape, which influences the unique flavors of its wine, coffee, and produce.
Signature Dishes:
- Caldo de Feijão (Bean Stew)
- Fogo Wine
Key Ingredients:
Sweet Delights & Desserts
Indulge in Cabo Verde's traditional sweet treats and desserts.
Doce de Papaia (Papaya Sweet)
A simple dessert made with ripe papaya, sugar, and sometimes spices like cinnamon or vanilla.
Traditional Beverages
Discover Cabo Verde's traditional drinks, from locally produced spirits to regional wines.
Grogue (Grogue)
A strong rum made from sugarcane, often served neat or used in cocktails like ponche.
Ponche (Punch)
A traditional alcoholic beverage made with grogue, sugar, lime juice, and spices.
Soft Beverages
Discover Cabo Verde's traditional non-alcoholic drinks, from local teas to refreshing juices.
Moringa Tea (Moringa Tea)
A popular herbal tea made from the leaves of the moringa tree, known for its health benefits.
Sumo Natural (Fresh Juice)
Freshly squeezed juices made from a variety of tropical fruits such as mango, papaya, and guava.