Portuguese Dishes
When it comes to Portuguese dishes, you can expect an amazing mix of flavors that are a reflection of the country’s history, landscapes, and seafood. Portugal has a lot to offer in terms of food, from hearty stews to fresh seafood. Whether you’re traveling to this beautiful country or just want to try Portuguese food, there are 10 dishes that you simply must try!
Bacalhau à Brás
Bacalhau or salted codfish is one of the most popular ingredients in Portuguese cuisine. Bacalhau à Brás is a delicious and savory dish made with shredded codfish, onions, straw fries, and scrambled eggs. This meal is both comforting and flavorful and is often accompanied by a side of olives and parsley.
Francesinha
Have you ever heard of Francesinha? It’s a famous sandwich from Portugal with different types of meat like steak, ham, and sausage. The sandwich has a spicy tomato and beer sauce and melted cheese. We usually serve it with crispy french fries or with an egg on top of the sandwich.
Arroz de Marisco & Ameijoas á Bulhao Pato
If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll want to try Arroz de Marisco, a delicious Portuguese dish that showcases the country’s wealth of seafood. This rice dish is made with a tasty tomato-based broth and various shellfish, including clams, mussels, and shrimp. It’s the perfect meal for anyone wanting a comforting and satisfying seafood dish. There is also Ameijoas á Bulhao Pato a seafood dish mainly with clams and seasoning.
Feijoada
Feijoada is a bean stew with black beans and a variety of pork cuts like sausages, bacon, and ribs. We often serve this meal with rice and a side of greens. This dish showcases the Portuguese love for slow-cooked, flavorful meals.
Açorda
Açorda is a Portuguese bread soup made with bread, garlic, olive oil, eggs, and other ingredients like shrimp, codfish, or vegetables.
Cozido
Have you tried Cozido à Portuguesa? It’s a filling stew from Portugal with meats, including sausages, beef, and pork, along with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and cabbage. The slow-cooking process ensures that the meats are tender and flavorful, and the broth is rich and satisfying. Give it a try!
Pastéis de Nata
These famous Portuguese custard tarts are well-known all around the world. Pastéis de Nata is a puff pastry with a creamy custard and a hint of cinnamon. They’re the perfect treat for breakfast or dessert and can be found in nearly every bakery in Portugal.
Polvo à Lagareiro
Portugal’s love for octopus shines in this dish. Polvo à Lagareiro is a tender, grilled octopus with garlic-infused olive oil and served with crispy potatoes. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish.
Caldo Verde
Caldo Verde is a Portuguese soup with kale, potatoes, and thinly sliced chouriço sausage. It is a comforting meal, especially during colder months, and is typically enjoyed with crusty bread.
Espetada
Espetada is known for its strong flavors, with the smokiness from the grill and the aromatic spices creating a mouthwatering combination. It is a favorite dish in the Alentejo region, where the cuisine has strong and rustic flavors. We often enjoy this at family gatherings, festivals, and special occasions, bringing people together over the love of good food and shared traditions.
Portuguese cuisine has a variety of flavors, from the sea to the mountains, and is a genuine representation of the country’s culture and history. Whether you have a fondness for seafood and meat, or you want to try local food, these Portuguese dishes are an ideal starting point for your gastronomical journey in Portugal. Thus, when you visit this stunning country, be sure to try some. I am sure it will leave you wanting more. Bom appetite!
If you would like to learn more about Portugal, you can click on this link: https://www.visitportugal.com/en/content/portugal-top-travel-destination.
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