Mallorca's traditional ensaimada has once again proved its ability to surprise and captivate those tasting it for the first time. A video circulating successfully across various digital platforms shows the spontaneous reaction of two American tourists trying this emblematic Balearic sweet at a bakery in Valldemossa, sparking numerous comments from proud Mallorcans delighted to see one of their most representative products continuing to win over international palates.
"We finally have some ensaimadas," one of the protagonists is heard saying at the start of the recording, as they show several typical Mallorcan products just purchased with evident enthusiasm. The visitors particularly highlight the freshness of the products, noting that "everything is fresh because they've just baked it," before proceeding to taste the ensaimada in its traditional version, without filling. The climactic moment arrives when, after taking the first bite, one of them exclaims with satisfaction: "It's crispy, a Mallorcan classic."
The gastronomic experience continues as they try a Nutella-filled variant, which generates some surprise and divided opinions. "It's good... it's Nutella," one of the tourists comments with laughter, though clarifying that "it doesn't completely go well" with the traditional dough. The tasting concludes with a local empanada, which also sparks their curiosity for being different from their expectations: "I thought it was going to be like a burger, but it's more like a meat stew. It's good," they conclude.
The viral phenomenon of Mallorcan gastronomy
The video, which has already accumulated thousands of views since its publication, forms part of a growing trend on social media where tourists share their first impressions of local cuisine from different destinations. In Mallorca's case, the ensaimada has become a recurring star in this type of content, consolidating its position as a gastronomic ambassador of the Balearic Islands internationally.
Data from the Regulatory Council of the Ensaimada de Mallorca confirms a 12% increase in production during 2024, with even more optimistic forecasts for 2025. This growth responds both to increased tourism on the island and international interest in artisanal products with designation of origin and history, a trend particularly observed among North American and Asian travellers.
The ensaimada, jewel of Balearic pastry
Considered one of Mallorca's gastronomic treasures, the ensaimada boasts a tradition dating back to the 17th century. Its name derives from the Arabic term "saim", meaning lard, a fundamental ingredient in its preparation along with flour, sugar, eggs and yeast. The kneading technique and resting period are crucial to achieving its characteristic spiral texture and light puff pastry that so surprises those who try it.
Since 2003, the Ensaimada de Mallorca has held Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, a recognition that guarantees its authenticity and traditional method of preparation. Currently, there are two varieties covered by this denomination: the plain ensaimada and the ensaimada filled with "angel's hair" (candied pumpkin), although numerous variants with different fillings such as chocolate, cream or, as in the case of the viral video, Nutella can be found in pastry shops across the island.
The American market, accustomed to denser and frequently sweeter pastries, typically shows surprise at the lightness and subtlety of the traditional ensaimada. The combination of its flaky, crispy texture with a tender interior and a delicate flavour where pork lard predominates represents a sensory experience quite different from conventional American sweets.