Lapped by the waves of the Mediterranean Sea, the island of Ibiza’s crystal clear waters are home to a host of marine species that are often the main ingredient in Ibizan dishes. As such they feature prominently in some famous Ibizan specialities, for example, bullit de peix or fried octopus. One of Ibiza’s most exquisite and little-known traditional dishes is borrida de rajada, or skate casserole, a white fish that is extremely nutritious providing protein and very little fat.
This local delicacy comes as a complete surprise to many, and it has a unique mild taste and texture that makes it an ideal food for older people and small children. The main ingredient in Ibizan borrida de rajada, as mentioned, is skate, which is cooked with potatoes and almonds, the latter serving as a condiment which has been used in local recipes since the Middle Ages.
It is a delicious example of Ibizan cuisine and is only found today in traditional restaurants that prepare seafood in the old tried and trusted ways. The fish is cut into large slices, sprinkled with salt and left to rest for an hour; meanwhile the potatoes are sliced into rounds. The next step is to layer the fish and potatoes in a casserole dish, and top this with a mixture of finely chopped hardboiled egg, garlic, parsley and almonds. The dish is then seasoned with salt and pepper and oil, adding water to cover. It is cooked on a low heat until it is ready to be enjoyed.
To savour borrida de rajada is to dip into the authentic Ibizan cuisine, a dish with a delicate taste and quality that makes it truly irresistible.