Portuguese Cuisine

Introduction Polvo à Lagareiro is one of Portugal’s most elegant and beloved seafood dishes, celebrated for its simplicity, bold flavours, and deep connection to Portuguese culinary tradition. The name “lagareiro” refers to the olive oil press (lagar), highlighting the generous use of high-quality olive oil that defines this dish. Traditionally served during festive occasions such […]

Introduction Bifana is one of Portugal’s most iconic street foods, a simple yet intensely flavourful pork sandwich that holds a special place in everyday Portuguese life. Found in cafés, taverns, football stadiums, and local festivals, the bifana is beloved for its affordability, speed, and bold taste. Despite its simplicity, this humble sandwich represents the essence

Introduction Cataplana de Marisco is one of Portugal’s most distinctive and celebrated seafood dishes, named after the unique copper cookware in which it is traditionally prepared. Originating in the Algarve region in southern Portugal, this dish reflects the area’s deep connection to the sea and its Moorish culinary influences. The cataplana pot, shaped like a

Introduction Arroz de Marisco is one of Portugal’s most celebrated seafood dishes, known for its rich flavour, comforting texture, and close connection to the country’s coastal traditions. Unlike dry rice dishes, Arroz de Marisco is intentionally saucy, almost stew-like, allowing the rice to absorb the deep flavours of the sea. It is especially popular in

Introduction Sardinhas Assadas, or Portuguese grilled sardines, are one of the most iconic dishes in Portugal and a true symbol of summer, celebration, and coastal living. Simple, rustic, and deeply flavorful, this dish showcases Portugal’s long-standing relationship with the sea and its emphasis on letting high-quality ingredients shine without unnecessary embellishment. For many Portuguese families,

Introduction Cozido à Portuguesa is one of Portugal’s most traditional and deeply rooted dishes, a hearty and generous meal that reflects the country’s rural heritage and love of communal dining. Often described as a “boiled dinner,” Cozido is far more than a simple stew. It is a carefully assembled feast of meats, sausages, and vegetables,

Introduction Pastel de Nata is Portugal’s most famous pastry, a beloved custard tart known for its flaky layers, creamy filling, and lightly caramelised top. Originally created by monks at the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon in the early 19th century, these tarts were born out of necessity. Egg whites were commonly used for starching clothes, leaving

Introduction Caldo Verde is one of Portugal’s most cherished and recognizable dishes, a humble yet deeply comforting soup that reflects the soul of Portuguese home cooking. Originating in the Minho region of northern Portugal, Caldo Verde translates to “green broth,” a name that comes from its signature vibrant color created by finely shredded greens simmered

Introduction Francesinha is one of Portugal’s most iconic and indulgent dishes, a hearty sandwich that proudly reflects the bold, comforting spirit of Portuguese cuisine. Originating in the northern city of Porto, Francesinha translates loosely to “little French girl,” a name inspired by the French croque-monsieur, though the Portuguese version is far richer, heavier, and unmistakably

Introduction Bacalhau à Brás is one of Portugal’s most beloved and iconic dishes, a comforting yet elegant recipe that perfectly represents the heart of Portuguese home cooking. Made with salt cod, eggs, onions, and thin fried potatoes, this dish is simple in ingredients but rich in flavor and tradition. In Portugal, bacalhau (salted cod) is