São Miguel is known for its incredible natural beauty and volcanic crater lakes, but it also amazing bread and cheese. They even cook food in volcanic steam vents!
Foodie São Miguel
Much of São Miguel is rural and dedicated to agriculture. Drive around and you’re sure to see lots and lots of cows grazing on hilly terrain. Remember, Elsie has the right of way. If there’s cows on the road, you’re obligated to stop and let them pass, no matter how long it takes. Violate this rule by honking your horn or trying to nudge them off the road and you may be in for an expensive surprise!
Food in a volcano
The Azores archipelago was formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. Even today, molten rock, just below the surface, heats underground water. Thermal spas take advantage of this phenomenon, as do local chefs.
The most unique dish in the Azores is the Cozido das Furnas. Best translated to Cavern Stew, this bowl of roughly chopped meat and veggies is something truly unusual.
Early each morning, cooks layer meat and local produce in steel buckets, lowering them into the super-hot vents near Furnas Lake. The buckets are covered and remain underground for several hours until they are removed and taken back to the restaurant where hungry guests enjoy platters piled high with big chunks of meat and vegetables.
