Food in Portugal

Portugal, a country with a rich maritime heritage, beckons travelers not only with its picturesque coastline and historical cities but also with its distinct and flavorful cuisine. Influenced by the land and sea, Portuguese culinary tradition is a treasure trove of hearty, satisfying dishes and sweet treats that reflect the country's diverse cultural influences. From the freshness of seafood caught off the Atlantic coast to the rustic appeal of countryside produce, Portugal promises a gastronomic journey that no traveler should miss. Discover the must-try Portuguese dishes to fully immerse yourself in the local culture during your visit to this captivating European destination.

Portuguese Dishes

Bacalhau à Brás

Bacalhau à Brás is one of Portugal’s most beloved bacalhau (cod) dishes. It's made from shredded salted cod, onions, and thinly chopped fried potatoes, all bound with scrambled eggs. Often garnished with black olives and sprinkled with fresh parsley, this dish is a flavorful testament to the Portuguese love affair with codfish.

Cozido à Portuguesa

Cozido à Portuguesa is a hearty stew that brings together a variety of meats—pork, beef, and chicken—along with sausages like chouriço, morcela (blood sausage), and farinheira (flour sausage). These are cooked with a medley of vegetables such as carrots, turnips, kale, and potatoes. This dish reflects the communal spirit of Portuguese cuisine and is typically shared among family and friends.

Caldo Verde

A comforting staple, Caldo Verde is a simple yet delicious soup originating from the Minho province. It's made with potatoes, shredded collard greens, olive oil, and often contains slices of chouriço sausage. Served with a slice of broa (cornbread), it's especially popular during Portuguese celebrations.

Feijoada à Transmontana

Feijoada à Transmontana is a rich bean stew from the northeastern region of Trás-os-Montes. It's a blend of red kidney beans, pork, beef, and sausages, slow-cooked to perfection. The dish is seasoned with garlic, bay leaves, and cumin, providing a robust and warming flavor.

Arroz de Marisco

Arroz de Marisco is a fragrant seafood rice dish that's akin to a paella. It includes a variety of fresh seafood such as shrimp, clams, mussels, and squid, cooked with tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers. Seasoned with Portuguese spices and herbs, it's a must-try for seafood lovers.

Alheira

Alheira is a traditional Portuguese sausage made with a mixture of meats, such as poultry, veal, duck, or rabbit, and bread. Unlike other sausages, it's typically free of pork and is smoked, giving it a unique flavor. It's often fried and served with a fried egg, chips, and a side salad.

Francesinha

Originating from Porto, the Francesinha is a sandwich unlike any other. It's stuffed with various meats like ham, sausage, and steak, then covered with melted cheese and a hot, thick tomato and beer sauce. Often served with French fries, it's a decadent and satisfying treat.

Carne de Porco à Alentejana

This dish is a surprising combination of pork and clams, with the meat marinated in a mixture of garlic, paprika, white wine, and coriander before cooking. The clams are added at the end, and the dish is typically garnished with fresh herbs and served with potatoes.

Polvo à Lagareiro

Polvo à Lagareiro is a celebration of the octopus, a common ingredient in Portuguese cuisine. The octopus is boiled and then roasted with plenty of olive oil, garlic, and sometimes onions, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. It's often accompanied by "batatas a murro" (punched potatoes).

Portuguese Desserts

Pastéis de Nata

Perhaps the most iconic Portuguese pastry, Pastéis de Nata, or Portuguese custard tarts, are a delightful treat. These creamy, egg custard tarts are encased in flaky pastry and typically dusted with cinnamon and powdered sugar. They're best enjoyed fresh out of the oven from a local pastelaria.

Arroz Doce

Arroz Doce is a sweet and creamy rice pudding that's a staple dessert in Portuguese households. Cooked with lemon zest and cinnamon, the pudding is often decorated with cinnamon powder on top in a pattern, which can range from simple lines to complex designs.

Aletria

Aletria is similar to arroz doce, but it's made with thin vermicelli-like pasta instead of rice. This sweet dish is enriched with milk, sugar, eggs, and butter and is traditionally garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon to create intricate patterns.

Bolo de Bolacha

Bolo de Bolacha is a no-bake cake made with layers of Maria biscuits soaked in coffee syrup and sandwiched with a mixture of buttercream or condensed milk. It's a beloved dessert for its simplicity and the perfect balance of sweet and bitter flavors.

Queijadas

Queijadas are small, round cakes that come in various flavors, with the most traditional being made from cheese, hence the name. You'll find different versions across Portugal, from the Queijadas de Sintra, which are cheese-flavored, to the Queijadas de Évora, which are made with pumpkin.

Toucinho do Céu

Toucinho do Céu is an almond cake that's rich and dense, originally from the north of Portugal. Its name translates to "bacon from heaven," although it doesn't contain any bacon. Instead, it's made with a large number of egg yolks, sugar, and almonds, creating a uniquely moist and flavorful dessert.

Sericaia

Sericaia is an egg custard tart originating from the Alentejo region. It's baked until it has a slightly caramelized top and is often served with plums, either cooked in syrup or as a plum compote known as ameixa de Elvas.