The Balearic Islands
Matt Olesker
Geography and Topography
The Balearic Islands are a group of 15 island between the Spanish Levante coast and Sardinia. These islands are 80 to 140 miles away from the eastern coast of Spain. The main islands are Minorca, Mallorca, Ibiza, and Formentera.
Climate
The climate in the Balearic Islands is typically Mediterranean, with a lot of sunny days throughout the year. Winters are mild and dry, with the majority of the rainfall falling during the autumn and winter. Annual precipitation is usually around 450 mm to 600 mm each year. The temperature during summer is not as oppressive as on parts of the mainland because of the sea breezes, with a maximum in August of around 28° (82°). In January expect maximum daily temperatures of around 13°, with a minimum of 4° sometimes, but still on average, about 5 hours of sunshine per day.
Food
Extra-virgin olive oil, pork fat, and ensaimada are the signature foods.
Olive Oil
"Our Produces." Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Chania Crete Greece, the Cradle of Cretan Olive Oil. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Apr. 2014.
Pork Fat
"A Cooking Life." 'A Cooking Life' N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Apr. 2014.
Ensaimada
"Ensaimada De Cabello De Angel." - €12.48 : Cas Sucrer. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Apr. 2014.
Work Cited
"Balearic Islands | Worlds of Flavor Spain." Balearic Islands | Worlds of Flavor Spain. The Culinary Institute of America, n.d. Web. 31 Mar. 2014.
"Spain's Regional Cooking." Cooking Light. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Apr. 2014.
"Balearic Islands Spain." Spanish Fiestas. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Apr. 2014.