Exploring Arta: Local Dishes, Restaurants, and Recipes

Exploring Arta: Local Dishes, Restaurants, and Recipes

The charming town of Arta, nestled in the northeast of Mallorca, Spain, is not only renowned for its picturesque scenery and historic sites but also for its enticing local cuisine. Arta offers a gastronomic journey that is deeply rooted in Mallorcan traditions, with a plethora of flavors that reflect the region's culinary heritage.

Historical Context of Arta's Cuisine

The culinary traditions of Arta are influenced by its geographical location and history. Nestled between the fertile plains and the Mediterranean Sea, Arta has access to a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, and game. The Moorish influence, a remnant of the town's historical past, is still palpable in the local dishes, blending seamlessly with traditional Spanish flavors.

Popular Local Dishes

1. Sobrassada

Sobrassada is a distinctive Mallorcan cured sausage made from minced pork, paprika, salt, and spices. Its soft texture and rich, spicy flavor make it a staple in Arta’s kitchens. This sausage is often spread on bread or added to various recipes for an extra punch of flavor.

2. Tumbet

Tumbet is a traditional vegetable dish resembling a ratatouille, made of layers of fried eggplant, potatoes, red bell peppers, and tomato sauce. It is usually served as a side dish or a main course and is a vegetarian delight.

3. Arroz Brut

Arroz Brut, meaning "dirty rice", is a hearty, flavorful rice dish cooked with a mix of meats (rabbit, pork, and chicken), seasonal vegetables, and a variety of spices. The name comes from the dark, rich broth that gives the rice a "dirty" appearance.

4. Ensaimada

Ensaimada is a traditional Mallorcan pastry, characterized by its spiral shape and fluffy texture. Made with flour, water, sugar, eggs, and lard, it often comes with delicious fillings such as pumpkin, cream, or chocolate.

Famous Restaurants in Arta

Sa Tafona de Son Fang

Address: Carretera Cancamel, Km 22, 07570 Artà, Islas Baleares, SpainSet within a charming old olive mill, this restaurant offers a rustic ambiance and a range of traditional Mallorcan dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

Santuari de Sant Salvador

Address: Santuari de Sant Salvador, s/n, 07570 Artà, Islas Baleares, SpainThis historic spot, located at the site of the Sant Salvador sanctuary, provides not only a breathtaking view but also a delightful dining experience with a menu that highlights local dishes.

Forn Nou

Address: Carrer del Sol, 6, 07570 Artà, Illes Balears, SpainForn Nou is a renowned restaurant that offers a mix of traditional Mallorcan and contemporary cuisine. The cozy ambiance and fresh ingredients make it a must-visit spot for food lovers.

Traditional Recipes from Arta

Recipe: Arroz Brut

Ingredients

• 2 cups of short-grain rice
• 1 rabbit, cut into pieces
• 1 chicken breast, cut into pieces
• 200g pork ribs, cut into pieces
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, grated
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 6 cups of chicken broth
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the rabbit, chicken, and pork, and brown the meat on all sides.
2. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add the onion, green bell pepper, and garlic, sautéing until they are softened.
3. Add the grated tomatoes and cook for a few minutes until the mixture thickens. Stir in the paprika.
4. Return the meat to the pot and season with salt and black pepper.
5. Add the rice, stirring to coat it well with the tomato mixture and meat.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Local Anecdotes and Interesting Facts

One popular anecdote in Arta revolves around the Ensaimada. It is said that these pastries were originally made by Mallorcan Jews before their expulsion in the late 15th century. The traditional spiral shape of the Ensaimada is believed to symbolize the rolling movement of a snail, which represents continuity and eternity in Mallorcan culture.

Moreover, the famous Sobrassada sausage has an interesting history. Initially, it was considered a luxury item due to the high cost of spices like paprika, which were imported from the Americas. Over time, it became more accessible and is now a cherished delicacy in Arta.