The mysterious origins of the ‘fornets’: Exploring Mallorca’s ancient bakeries

The “fornets” of Mallorca are traditional bakeries that have preserved the art of baking bread and other recipes using time-honored methods. Even today, these “fornets” continue to offer classic Mallorcan treats, like the incomparable ensaimadas, guaranteed to delight your taste buds.

At ROIG, we’re passionate about discovering and sharing the enduring traditions of Mallorca, so when you visit our island, you also get a taste of our rich culture. With our car rental service in Mallorca, you can explore the island at your own pace, comfortably and safely.

If you’re eager to discover the secret behind our delicious ensaimadas and the island’s rich baking heritage, be sure to check out this post! 😉

History and tradition: The first fornets and their evolution in Mallorca

The “fornet” is a small traditional bakery that has always been much more than just a place to buy bread. The earliest evidence of fornets in Mallorca dates back to the Middle Ages when baking became an integral part of daily life on the island.

These small bread ovens, originally built in homes or villages, were vital for the survival of the community. Bread was made from locally grown grains like wheat and barley, which were milled at nearby mills. Medieval fornets were simple structures, featuring rustic wood-fired ovens. Bread was baked daily, and making “pa moreno,” a dark whole wheat bread, became a cherished tradition.

Over the centuries, fornets evolved to meet the changing needs and demands of society. During the Renaissance and later periods, bakeries began to professionalize, transitioning from domestic roles to local businesses that served a wider community.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Mallorca’s fornets began to offer more elaborate products. It was during this time that some of the island’s traditional pastries and baked goods, such as ensaimadas and cocarrois, were introduced and quickly became mainstays in these bakeries.

Bakery secrets: Ancient techniques and recipes of Mallorcan fornets

Mallorca’s fornets have preserved age-old secrets, passed down through generations. Here are some of the most important techniques used in these traditional Mallorcan bakeries:

• Slow and natural fermentation: A cornerstone of traditional Mallorcan baking, slow and natural fermentation is key to achieving the rich flavor and perfect texture of the dough. Unlike industrial methods that rush the process, fornets honor the time it takes for the dough to fully develop.

• Wood-fired baking: Wood-fired baking is one of the most revered and traditional techniques in Mallorcan fornets. Mastering temperature control is essential, and skilled bakers carefully manage the fire and position the bread in the oven to ensure it bakes to perfection.

• Manual kneading: Despite the availability of modern equipment, manual kneading is still widely practiced in traditional fornets. Many bakers prefer the hands-on approach, as it allows them to better gauge the dough’s consistency and development.

Tasting the products from these fornets is a must-do experience during your visit to Mallorca, so be sure not to miss out!

Cultural heritage: The importance of fornets in community life

From the very beginning, fornets have been far more than just commercial establishments. In the small communities of Mallorca, these bakeries evolved into daily gathering spots where neighbors would exchange news, share stories, and connect with one another.

In addition to their social role, fornets are crucial in preserving and promoting the island’s rich gastronomic traditions. These establishments have safeguarded ancestral recipes like pa moreno, ensaimadas, cocarrois, and other iconic products that are now synonymous with local cuisine.

Fornets route: A journey through the oldest and most iconic bakeries

Here’s a tour of the oldest and most iconic bakeries that will take you on a delicious journey:

Fornet de la Soca (Palma)

Begin your route in the heart of Palma at Fornet de la Soca, a true gem of baking heritage that has revived the island’s ancient recipes and methods. Housed in a historic building, this fornet is celebrated for its commitment to authenticity and the use of local, organic ingredients.

Here, you can savor an ensaimada made according to the original recipe, with a flavor that transports you back in time. Their selection of traditional breads and ancient pastries offers a deep appreciation of Mallorca’s rich culinary heritage.

Forn Sant Francesc (Inca)

In the city of Inca, a must-visit is Forn Sant Francesc, founded in 1912 and famed for its artisanally crafted pa moreno. This fornet has preserved the tradition of handmade bread baked in a wood-fired oven, using flour milled in local mills. Be sure to try their cocarrois, a beloved delicacy of Mallorcan cuisine.

Forn Can Montserrat (Pollença)

Continuing north to Pollença, you’ll find Forn Can Montserrat, a bakery that has been in operation for over a century. Founded in 1907, this fornet is renowned for its skillfully crafted traditional breads and pastries.

The house specialty is the cuarto embetumat, a light and fluffy sponge cake topped with meringue—a true delight for the senses. Forn Can Montserrat is a place where tradition meets innovation, all while honoring the island’s cultural roots.

Discover the flavors of these historic fornets with the car rental service we offer at ROIG. Our fleet of high-quality vehicles ensures you can enjoy your vacation with the utmost comfort and freedom. If you prefer other options, remember that we also provide taxi services and chauffeur-driven cars in Mallorca.

Flavors of the past: Typical products you can find in a traditional fornet

Here are some of the most iconic flavors you can find in a traditional Mallorcan fornet:

• Pa Moreno: A cornerstone of traditional Mallorcan baking, pa moreno is made with whole wheat flour, often blended with rye. This dark, dense bread is celebrated for its deep, slightly tangy flavor, a result of slow fermentation.

• Ensaimada: The ensaimada is undoubtedly the most famous product of Mallorca’s fornets. This delicious spiral-shaped pastry, made with flour, water, sugar, eggs, and lard, is soft and light. While the plain version is the most common, you can also find ensaimadas filled with angel hair, cream, chocolate, or even whipped cream. Beyond its delightful taste, this pastry is a symbol of Mallorcan celebrations and traditions.

• Cocarrois: Cocarrois are vegetable-filled pastries, a specialty of Mallorcan cuisine that reflects the island’s agricultural heritage. The crispy dough, made with olive oil, encases a filling of fresh ingredients like spinach, cabbage, raisins, and pine nuts, seasoned with fennel and local spices.

• Pa de Xeixa: This bread is made with xeixa wheat, a native variety of wheat from Mallorca that nearly vanished in the 20th century. Pa de Xeixa has a soft crumb and a slightly sweet flavor, with a rustic charm that sets it apart from other breads.

• Panades: Typically enjoyed during Easter, panades are pastries that can be found in fornets year-round. These pastries are often filled with lamb, pork, or fish, and are sometimes accompanied by peas and sobrasada.

• Coca de Patata: Originating from Valldemossa, coca de patata is a soft and fluffy sweet pastry made with potato, flour, sugar, and lard. This treat is especially popular for afternoon snacks and is often enjoyed with hot chocolate or coffee.

• Quelitas: These savory crackers are a staple in Mallorca, often enjoyed as a snack or accompaniment. While not all fornets make them, some offer artisanal versions that capture the authentic flavor of this beloved Mallorcan cracker.

At ROIG, we offer car rental deals in Mallorca so you can fully experience the island. Discover our delicious fornets and indulge in the delights of our island! 😉