7 Must-Try Foods When Visiting Portugal
Portugal is a country blessed with a rich and diverse culinary tradition that mirrors its historical influences and geographical beauty. Portugal offers a feast for the senses. Portuguese food is deeply rooted in its maritime history, with seafood taking center stage, while also showcasing hearty, rustic dishes that reflect the country’s agricultural traditions. Whether you are planning a trip to Portugal or simply daydreaming about its flavors, here are some must-try foods that will elevate your culinary adventure.
1. Bacalhau (Salted Codfish)
Bacalhau is perhaps the most iconic dish in Portugal. The Portuguese claim to have 365 different ways of preparing bacalhau – one for each day of the year! Bacalhau, or salted cod, is a preserved fish that’s been a staple in Portuguese cuisine for centuries. It is often featured in festive meals and family gatherings. The fish is rehydrated and then prepared in various forms, such as bacalhau à brás (a dish made with shredded cod, potatoes, eggs, and onions), bacalhau com natas (cod baked in a creamy sauce), and bacalhau à Gomes de Sá (cod baked with onions, potatoes, olives, and hard-boiled eggs).
The sheer variety of preparations means that every bite can offer a different experience, whether you’re enjoying a comforting home-cooked version or an innovative take in a modern restaurant.
2. Francesinha (Little Frenchie)
If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, the francesinha is a must-try sandwich. Hailing from Porto, this towering creation consists of layers of bread, ham, steak or roast beef, and melted cheese, all smothered in a rich, spicy sauce. The sandwich is then baked, creating a gooey, mouthwatering masterpiece.
The francesinha it’s a unique and hearty dish that reflects Porto’s love for bold flavors. It’s often served with a side of crispy fries and is a perfect comfort food, particularly after a long day of sightseeing.
3. Cozido à Portuguesa (Portuguese Stew)
Cozido à Portuguesa is a traditional, hearty stew that showcases the rich flavors of Portuguese meats and vegetables. This dish varies by region but typically includes a combination of pork, beef, chicken, and various sausages such as chouriço (smoked sausage), linguiça (garlicky sausage), and morcela (blood sausage). The meats are simmered with an array of vegetables like cabbage, carrots, potatoes, and beans, resulting in a comforting, filling dish perfect for cooler days.
It’s a dish that evokes the warmth and hospitality of Portugal, often served in large quantities and shared with family and friends. It’s commonly enjoyed at festive gatherings, especially during the colder months.
4. Pastéis de Nata (Custard Tarts)
No visit to Portugal is complete without indulging in pastéis de nata. These delectable custard tarts are one of the country’s most famous desserts. With a crisp, flaky pastry shell filled with a smooth, creamy custard filling, pastéis de nata are often enjoyed as a sweet treat with a cup of coffee. They are best when served warm, with a light dusting of cinnamon.
Originating from Belém, pastéis de nata can now be found all over Portugal. The Pastéis de Belém bakery in Lisbon is considered the birthplace of these iconic tarts, and visiting it is a must for anyone with a sweet tooth.
5. Caldo Verde
A comforting bowl of caldo verde is an essential Portuguese dish. This beloved green soup is made with potatoes, onions, garlic, and thinly sliced kale, then flavored with chouriço and olive oil. The result is a velvety, soul-warming soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings. It’s often served with a slice of cornbread, making it a filling and satisfying meal.
While it’s traditionally eaten during festive occasions such as São João (the Feast of St. John), it’s enjoyed year-round, especially in northern Portugal. Caldo verde’s simplicity and depth of flavor reflect the essence of Portuguese comfort food.
6. Sardinhas Assadas (Grilled Sardines)
Sardines are an essential summer food in Portugal, and sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines) are often enjoyed during the feast of Santo António and São João in June. The sardines are typically grilled over an open flame and served simply with olive oil, salt, and sometimes a squeeze of lemon.
The simplicity of this dish allows the smoky flavor of the sardines to take center stage. Often eaten with bread or salad, sardinhas assadas are an essential part of the Portuguese culinary experience, especially when enjoyed at a lively street festival.
7. Ginja (Sour Cherry Liquor)
No trip to Portugal would be complete without a traditional Portuguese drink, and ginja (or ginginha) is one of the most iconic. This sweet, sour cherry liquor is typically enjoyed after a hearty meal. It’s especially popular in Lisbon and the town of Óbidos, where you’ll find many local taverns serving the drink in small shot glasses, often with a piece of fruit floating inside. The most iconic way to drink it is through a chocolate up.
The flavor of ginja is rich and fruity, with the cherries soaking in alcohol and sugar for a truly delightful experience. It’s a great way to cap off your Portuguese culinary adventure.
Portuguese cuisine is an invitation to indulge in simple yet flavorful dishes that showcase the country’s diverse culinary heritage. From fresh seafood to savory stews, from sweet pastries to iconic beverages, there’s something for every palate in Portugal’s food scene. Whether you’re visiting the historic streets of Lisbon, exploring the rugged beauty of the Alentejo, or lounging by the ocean in the Algarve, these dishes will provide a delicious glimpse into Portugal’s heart and soul. So, pack your appetite and get ready to savor the flavors of Portugal!