In Furnas, on the island of São Miguel, you’ll find the most iconic dish of the Azores: Cozido das Furnas. This unique meal blends culinary tradition with the fascinating use of the region’s geothermal energy.
A One-of-a-Kind Cooking Method
What makes Cozido das Furnas truly special is the way it’s cooked. Instead of using a conventional stove, this hearty dish is slowly cooked underground, using the natural geothermal heat of Furnas.
How It’s Made
Large pots filled with ingredients are buried in the ground, inside natural steam vents called caldeiras. These pits are typically between 70 and 120 cm deep.
- Cooking time: About 6 hours
- Ground temperature: Between 140°F and 195°F (60°C to 90°C)
Traditional Ingredients
Cozido das Furnas is made with a rich mix of meats and vegetables, reflecting the local agricultural abundance:
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Meats: beef, pork, and chicken
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Sausages: Azorean chouriço and blood sausage (morcela)
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Vegetables: potatoes, sweet potatoes, yams, carrots, cabbage, and collard greens
The slow volcanic cooking process brings all the flavors together, resulting in a comforting, flavorful, and truly unforgettable dish.
A Culinary and Tourist Experience
Tasting Cozido das Furnas isn’t just a meal — it’s a full-on cultural experience. Many visitors take the opportunity to watch the pots being lifted from the ground, which is part of the charm. If you’re interested in seeing this, plan to be there between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
While you’re there, you can also:
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Enjoy the views and visit Furnas Lake
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Relax in the hot spring pools
Where to Stay and What to See in Furnas
When is the best time to visit Furnas?
Furnas is a great destination year-round, but it’s best to avoid rainy days. If possible, set aside a full day to explore the area at a relaxed pace. Always check the weather forecast — or live webcams on the island — as conditions can change quickly. There’s a lot to see and do, and the goal is to unwind and enjoy the atmosphere.
Where to Try It
To taste this traditional dish, you’ll need to visit one of the local restaurants in the village. Some popular options include:
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Terra Nostra Restaurant
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Tony’s Restaurant
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O Miroma Restaurant
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Caldeiras & Vulcões Restaurant
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À Terra Restaurant
Reservations are required if you want to try the Cozido.
Azores GPS Tip: We recommend ordering Cozido for two people — usually the portions are generous, and the flavor is quite distinctive. You can also complement your meal with other regional dishes available at these restaurants.
Without a doubt, Cozido das Furnas is more than just a dish — it’s an experience that blends food, geology, and tradition, offering visitors a true immersion into Azorean culture.
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