Go back to news list

Mahon's culinary marvels

The growing presence of tasty Tapas bars and restaurants is increasing the awareness of the foods of Spain, including the traditional cheese of Mahon.

Situated on the idyllic island of Menorca, Mahon cheese is said to benefit from a not-so secret ingredient - the milk of happy cows.

Of course they are happy; with clear skies, verdant countryside and weather suited to paradise, the bovines of the island have little to complain about.

The region's unique cheese is rubbed with paprika and olive oil to enhance its tangy taste before being left to mature for ten months to a year.

Mahon's portside al fresco restaurants will serve this cheese drizzled with olive oil and fresh herbs.

Visitors who fly to Mahon on one of the regular flights from the UK will be surprised to learn that a much more common delight also has its origins in this port town.

Mayonnaise, the perfect relish for fresh sandwiches, is one tasty testament to the island's history.

The town which has been fortified through the ages was the scene of a battle between the French and British in the 18th century. After a battle which the French won, the chef for the victorious army concocted a tangy thick sauce from olive oil, eggs and lemon which was named after the port city.

Article ID: 198, Posted: Wed, 18 Apr 2007 17:30:00 GMT