Strong, savoury and packed with flavour, almogrote is a traditional cheese spread from the Canary Islands that has been part of everyday cooking in La Gomera for generations.
Almogrote is one of the dishes that best represents Canarian island cuisine. It is particularly associated with La Gomera, where it has long been a staple. The dish is a thick paste made from mature goat’s cheese, dried red peppers, garlic and olive oil. It is usually served spread on bread or alongside simple dishes.
Its bold flavour comes from the use of very mature cheese. This gives the paste real depth and a slightly sharp edge. As a result, even a small amount delivers a rich and distinctive taste.
A local favourite
The recipe grew out of rural life, where people wasted nothing. When cheeses became too hard to eat on their own, they blended them with peppers, oil and garlic. This simple method created a spread that kept for longer and added flavour to modest meals. What began as a practical solution soon became a local favourite.
Today, almogrote appears in homes, bars and restaurants across La Gomera and throughout the wider Canary Islands. People most closely associate it with La Gomera, yet cooks prepare and enjoy it across the archipelago.
What to serve with almogrote
It works particularly well spread on toasted bread or a rustic loaf. Alternatively, it can be served with potatoes, grilled meats or fish. It also makes an excellent addition to a tapas selection. In that setting, it is best enjoyed with a glass of local wine.
Ingredients (serves 4)
- 250 g mature goat’s cheese
- 2 dried red peppers
- 2 cloves garlic
- 100 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 1 chilli pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt to taste
Top tips
- Use well-aged goat’s cheese for the right flavour
- Soak the dried peppers beforehand so they soften
- Adjust garlic and chilli to suit your taste
- Blend to a thick paste, not too runny
- Store in the fridge covered with a little olive oil
How to make almogrote
- Soak the dried peppers in water for a few hours until soft.
- Remove the seeds and roughly chop them.
- Peel the garlic.
- Grate or finely chop the cheese.
- Put the cheese, peppers, garlic and paprika into a blender or mortar.
- Blend while slowly adding the olive oil.
- Season with salt and add chilli if using.
- Blend until smooth and thick.
- Serve with bread or as a side dish.
