Queijo de Figo
A 'cheese' made of figs, almonds and aguardente — the Algarve's old sweet, shaped like a cheese.
A rustic, chewy marvel that is far more a dense fruit preserve than a cheese.
It represents the genius of Algarve farmers who turned simple dried fruit into a durable, delicious luxury.
Where it comes from
This was the original energy bar of the Algarve, created by rural families to preserve the fig harvest through the winter months. By incorporating the almonds that grew in every orchard and a splash of aguardente, it became a shelf-stable, nutrient-dense treat. It captures the essential Mediterranean synergy of the orchard and the home distillery.
The dish
Compressed into a round cheese-like shape, this treat features layers of sun-dried figs and toasted almonds. Each slice is an earthy, potent punch of dried-fruit sweetness spiked with a hint of local firewater.
Key ingredients
- 01Dried figs
- 02Almonds
- 03Aguardente
- 04Cinnamon
- 05Sugar
When to eat it
An essential fixture of the Christmas season, though it remains available year-round.
Why you might skip it
The texture is exceptionally chewy and may challenge those preferring soft or airy desserts.
Good to know
Buy from local producers at farmers markets in Loulé or Tavira for the best, non-industrial versions.
Serve with
Adega do Cantor
The Algarve winery founded by Sir Cliff Richard (with winemaker David Baverstock of Esporão), near Guia/Albufeira, making the Vida Nova and Onda Nova ranges from Algarve-grown grapes — a name-led estate with surprising wine quality.
Algarve
A small, fast-rising region of four coastal denominations (Lagos, Portimão, Lagoa, Tavira) where Atlantic breeze meets the Barrocal limestone. Long dismissed as beach-trip wine, it's now producing serious Syrah, Touriga Nacional and crisp whites from estates like Quinta dos Vales and Quinta do Francês.
Eat
Arroz de Lingueirão
Rice with razor clams — the Algarve's cleanest, most elegant seafood rice.
Camarão Frito
Whole small prawns fried with garlic and lime — the Algarve's simplest, best bar snack.
Cataplana
A seafood stew steamed in a copper clam-shell pot — the Algarve's signature dish.
Where to find it
Lagos
A historic port town turned the Algarve's best all-round base — old-town charm, dramatic cliffs to the west, and the gateway to the Costa Vicentina.
Tavira
The Algarve's most graceful town — a river, 37 churches, a Roman bridge, and the gateway to the quiet eastern islands.