12 Best Portuguese Foods To Try In Portugal

Portugal is a culinary paradise, offering a delightful array of traditional dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a curious traveler, exploring the vibrant local cuisine is an essential part of immersing yourself in the Portuguese culture. From fresh seafood to hearty meat dishes, Portugal has something to offer for everyone.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 12 best Portuguese foods that you must try during your visit to this mesmerizing country. Prepare yourself for a gastronomic journey that will introduce you to the unique flavors, aromas, and textures that make Portuguese cuisine so special. So, get your appetite ready and join us as we take a delicious tour of the top culinary delights that Portugal has to offer.

Pastel de Nata

Pastel de Nata is a delicious Portuguese custard tart, characterized by its crispy puff pastry and creamy egg custard filling. This iconic pastry is a must-try when visiting Portugal. The warm, flaky crust combined with the sweet, rich custard creates a heavenly taste sensation. You can find Pastel de Nata in bakeries and cafes all over the country.

Bacalhau à Brás

Bacalhau à Brás is a traditional Portuguese dish made with salted codfish, eggs, potatoes, and onions. The codfish is cooked with onions until golden and then mixed with scrambled eggs and crispy matchstick potatoes. The result is an incredibly flavorful and satisfying dish that showcases the versatility of bacalhau, a staple ingredient in Portuguese cuisine.

Francesinha

The Francesinha is a mouthwatering Portuguese sandwich that originated in Porto. It typically consists of layers of ham, linguiça, and steak, sandwiched between two slices of bread, and topped with melted cheese and a rich tomato-beer sauce. This indulgent and hearty sandwich is often served with a side of French fries and is the ultimate comfort food.

Caldo Verde

Caldo Verde is a classic Portuguese soup made with kale, potatoes, onions, and garlic. It is simple yet incredibly flavorful, with the kale giving the soup a vibrant green color. Traditionally, it is served with slices of chouriço, a Portuguese sausage, which adds an extra layer of deliciousness to this comforting dish.

Piri-Piri Chicken

Piri-Piri Chicken is a popular Portuguese grilled chicken dish known for its spicy and smoky flavors. The chicken is marinated in a sauce made from piri-piri chili peppers, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, before being grilled to perfection. It is often served with fries or rice and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Sardinhas Assadas

Sardinhas Assadas, or grilled sardines, are a beloved Portuguese specialty, especially during the summer months. The sardines are seasoned with olive oil, sea salt, and lemon juice, then grilled until tender and crispy. They are typically served with a side of boiled potatoes and a fresh salad, making for a delightful and light meal.

Alheira de Mirandela

Alheira de Mirandela is a unique Portuguese sausage made with various meats, including poultry, game meat, and bread. It has a distinct flavor and is often served grilled or roasted. This sausage is particularly interesting as it was traditionally created by Portuguese Jews during the time of the Spanish Inquisition to disguise their true identity.

Arroz de Marisco

Arroz de Marisco is a flavorful Portuguese seafood rice dish that showcases the abundance of the country’s coastline. It typically includes a variety of seafood such as clams, shrimp, mussels, and prawns, mixed with seasoned rice and a rich tomato-based sauce. The combination of flavors from the sea and the aroma of the spices makes this dish a true gastronomic delight.

Cozido à Portuguesa

Cozido à Portuguesa is a hearty Portuguese stew made with a variety of meats and vegetables. It usually includes beef, pork, chicken, sausages, carrots, potatoes, and cabbage, all cooked together in a rich broth. This traditional dish is often enjoyed during festive occasions and is a symbol of Portuguese culinary heritage.

Açorda

Açorda is a traditional Portuguese dish that resembles a thick soup or stew. It is typically made with stale bread, garlic, olive oil, and herbs, and can be customized with ingredients such as seafood, vegetables, or eggs. Açorda is a comforting and flavorful dish that has been enjoyed in Portugal for centuries.

Queijo da Serra da Estrela

Queijo da Serra da Estrela is a famous Portuguese cheese made from the milk of Serra da Estrela sheep. It has a soft and creamy texture, with a slightly tangy and nutty flavor. This cheese is often enjoyed spread over a piece of crusty bread, and it pairs perfectly with a glass of Portuguese wine.

Bolo do Caco

Bolo do Caco is a traditional Madeiran flatbread made with sweet potato and served warm with garlic butter. It has a soft and fluffy texture with a hint of sweetness from the sweet potato. Bolo do Caco is a popular street food snack in Madeira and is a delightful accompaniment to many Portuguese dishes.

When visiting Portugal, make sure to indulge in these 12 Best Portuguese Foods To Try in Portugal. From the iconic Pastel de Nata to the flavorful Bacalhau à Brás, each dish represents the rich culinary heritage of the country. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to savor the unique flavors and textures that make Portuguese cuisine truly special.

Conclusion

FAQs

1. What is the national dish of Portugal?

The national dish of Portugal is Bacalhau à Brás, a delicious salted codfish dish prepared with onions, garlic, eggs, and potatoes.

2. What is the traditional Portuguese seafood dish?

One of the traditional Portuguese seafood dishes is Cataplana de Marisco, a flavorful stew made with a variety of seafood, spices, and vegetables.

3. What is the famous Portuguese pastry?

The most famous Portuguese pastry is the Pastel de Nata, a creamy egg custard tart with a crispy, flaky crust, sprinkled with cinnamon.

4. Is Portuguese food spicy?

Portuguese cuisine is flavorful but not overly spicy. However, some dishes may have a slight kick of spiciness, especially those influenced by African and Asian flavors.

5. What is the best time to visit Portugal for food?

The best time to visit Portugal for food is during the summer months when you can savor the freshest seafood and enjoy outdoor dining experiences.

6. Can vegetarians find options in Portuguese cuisine?

Yes, vegetarians can find options in Portuguese cuisine. Some popular vegetarian dishes include the Portuguese tomato rice, vegetable caldo verde soup, and various salads.

7. Are Portuguese desserts worth trying?

Absolutely! Portuguese desserts are a delight for anyone with a sweet tooth. Besides the Pastel de Nata, don’t miss out on trying Queijadas de Sintra (cheese pastries) and Arroz Doce (Portuguese rice pudding).

8. What is the best place to try Portuguese food?

You can find delicious Portuguese food all over the country, but Lisbon and Porto are especially renowned for their culinary scenes. Explore local markets, traditional taverns, and small family-owned restaurants for an authentic dining experience.

9. What is the Portuguese version of a hamburger?

The Portuguese version of a hamburger is the Francesinha, a mouthwatering sandwich filled with layers of cured meats, melted cheese, and topped with a rich beer sauce.

10. Can I find Portuguese food outside of Portugal?

Yes, Portuguese cuisine has gained popularity worldwide. You can find Portuguese restaurants in many major cities around the world, offering a taste of authentic Portuguese flavors.