When you think of European cuisine, names like Italian pasta, Greek lamb, and German sausages probably come to mind. French food is known for its elegance, and Spanish tapas are taking the world by storm. But have you ever checked out Portuguese cuisine? It’s like Europe’s best-kept secret that doesn’t get as much buzz, but it’s absolutely fantastic.
So, what makes Portuguese food so incredible? First off, Portugal’s spot right by the ocean means they’ve got some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. They’ve been perfecting their seafood dishes for centuries, and their traditional cooking techniques really make a difference.
But it’s not just the seafood that shines in Portuguese cuisine. They also have amazing fresh fruits and veggies, a variety of cereals and legumes, and a unique blend of flavors that most people don’t discover until they try it for themselves.
Plus, Portuguese food is influenced by the cuisines of its former colonies—Brazil, Africa, and Asia—bringing in a fantastic array of spices. And don’t forget about Portuguese wines; they’re world-renowned, with varieties like Port, Alentejo, Moscatel, and Vinho Verde.
If you’re a food lover looking for something new and delicious, a guided food tour in Lisbon is a must. It’s the perfect way to dive into Portugal’s rich flavors and explore their amazing dishes. Ready to get started? Let’s check out some of the most typical Portuguese dishes you’ve got to try!
Codfish
Codfish is a true star of Portuguese cuisine, and it’s cooked in so many amazing ways that it’s hard to pick a favorite. Here are a few of the most popular dishes you should definitely try:
Bacalhau à Brás: This dish features shredded codfish sautéed with chopped onions and tiny fried potatoes, then mixed with beaten eggs. It’s cooked until golden and topped with chopped parsley and black olives. It’s a tasty and comforting dish.
Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá: Originating from Porto, this dish combines sautéed cod with boiled potatoes, eggs, olives, olive oil, and onions. It’s a savory classic that’s both hearty and flavorful.
Bacalhau com Natas: For those who love creamy sauces, this one’s a winner. It is made with desalted cod, crumbled and mixed with poached onions, then topped with baked potatoes and a rich bechamel sauce with cream. It is baked until golden and bubbly—a real treat for cream sauce enthusiasts.
Bolinhos de Bacalhau: These are crispy cod balls, perfect as an appetizer or snack. They are similar to cod fritters and are incredibly popular in Portugal.
Francesinha
If you are diving into Portuguese cuisine, the “Francesinha” is a must-try. This hearty sandwich is a true local favorite and has deep roots in the city of Porto.
Therefore, here is the backstory: In the 1960s, a Portuguese chef named Daniel David da Silva, who had spent time working in France and Belgium, came back to Portugal with a burst of creativity.
Inspired by the French sandwich called croque-monsieur, he decided to create something new. He took slices of white bread and stuffed them with a delicious mix of meat, sausages, and cheese. Then, he topped it all off with a spicy sauce and a fried egg.
Feeling a bit puckish? Before you dig into a francesinha, why not explore the city on a food tour in Lisbon? It’s a great way to build up your appetite and get a taste of what Portugal has to offer. Then you can enjoy this iconic sandwich to your heart’s content!
Salami de Chocolate
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ll definitely want to try salami de chocolate when you’re in Portugal. This dessert, which literally means “chocolate salami,” looks just like a sausage but is made entirely of chocolatey goodness. It’s super easy to make and you can find it in almost every supermarket across Portugal.
The dessert is made by mixing chocolate powder, butter, eggs, and chunks of cookies. It might sound a bit quirky, but trust me, it’s delicious! While various European countries claim to have invented this treat, it’s clear that whoever came up with the idea of turning chocolate and cookies into a sausage-shaped delight had a pretty sweet vision for the future.
Next time you’re exploring Portuguese supermarkets or checking out local food spots, be sure to pick up a slice of this fun and tasty treat. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your chocolate cravings with a bit of Portuguese flair.
Can you eat veggie in Portugal?
You might think that Portugal’s traditional cuisine—packed with meat and seafood—might not be too friendly for vegetarians. And you’d be right; many classic dishes do include fish or meat. But don’t worry, if you’re a vegetarian, you’ll still have plenty of options!
Therefore, even though you might not dive into every traditional dish, you will definitely find delicious and satisfying vegetarian options in Portugal!