Portuguese cuisine: Beyond the famous Pastel de Nata

This article takes a deep-dive into some of Portugal's lesser-known dishes and culinary traditions.

When people think of Portuguese cuisine, they often think of the delicious and ubiquitous Pastel de Nata. But while this egg tart may be the country's most famous food export, it's far from the only culinary delight that Portugal has to offer. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into some of Portugal's lesser-known dishes and culinary traditions, exploring how the country's history and geography have influenced its cuisine.

Traditional Portuguese seafood dishes

One of the most distinctive features of Portuguese cuisine is its emphasis on seafood. With a long Atlantic coastline, it's no wonder that many of the country's most popular dishes are based around fish and shellfish. One such dish is Caldeirada, a hearty fish stew made with several different species of fish, potatoes, onions, and peppers. Another popular seafood dish is Choco Frito, fried cuttlefish that's usually served with a side of rice.

Another iconic Portuguese dish is arroz de marisco, a seafood rice dish that is popular in coastal regions. The dish typically features a variety of seafood such as shrimp, clams, and mussels, along with rice, vegetables (such as onions and tomatoes), and spices like saffron and paprika. It's a flavorful and aromatic dish that perfectly captures the essence of Portugal's coastal towns.

One staple of Portuguese cuisine is bacalhau, or salt cod. The Portuguese have been catching and drying cod for centuries, and it remains a beloved ingredient in many traditional dishes. There are said to be over 365 different ways to cook bacalhau, one for every day of the year. Some of the most popular preparations include bacalhau com natas (a creamy, cheesy casserole) and bacalhau à Brás (a stir-fried dish with eggs, onions, and potatoes).

Traditional Portuguese meat dishes

But seafood isn't the only thing that Portugal is known for. The country is also famous for its charcuterie, or cured meats. One particular example is the prized Presunto, a type of dry-cured ham that's similar to Spanish Jamón or Italian Prosciutto. Traditionally, it's served thinly sliced with bread and olives or as a topping for a pizza. Another popular cured meat is Alheira, a type of sausage made with chicken or game meat, bread, and garlic.

One of the most beloved examples of Portuguese cuisine is francesinha, a sandwich that originated in Porto. The sandwich is made with layers of different meats (such as ham, sausage, and steak) and cheese, served between thick slices of bread. The sandwich is then covered with a rich, spicy tomato sauce and often topped with a fried egg. While francesinha is most commonly associated with Porto, it can now be found throughout the country.

Another traditional Portuguese dish is cozido, a hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and beans. Every region of Portugal has its own version of cozido, but they all share the same warming, comforting quality. The stew typically includes a variety of meats (such as Jo beef, pork, and chicken), along with vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and turnips. Garlic and paprika are also key ingredients, adding depth and flavor to the dish. Cozido is often served with rice or potatoes.

Portuguese baking tradition

Moving away from meat and seafood, we come to Portugal's love of bread. The most typical Portuguese bread is Pão, a white, slightly crusty bread that's enjoyed with almost everything. For breakfast or as a snack, it's often served with butter or jam, while for lunch or dinner, it's used as the basis for sandwiches or as an accompaniment to soup. In some regions of Portugal, bread even takes center stage in dishes like Migas, a type of bread pudding made with garlic, olive oil, and paprika.

And let's not forget about Portuguese desserts beyond the famous Pastel de Nata. For example, arroz doce (rice pudding) is a creamy and comforting dessert made with rice cooked in milk and sweetened with sugar and cinnamon. Then there's the sponge cake-like Pão-de-Ló, which is typically enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.



Another example is Bolo Rei, a cake traditionally eaten at Christmastime that's studded with nuts and dried fruit.

When you got all hungry and curious now, then check out our "Veganized Portuguese Food Workshop and Animal Sanctuary Tour" in Castelo Branco, where you can meet 

Liliana and Pedro Garcia, food chefs and owners of vegan restaurant "Há, mas são verdes" and founders of animal sanctuary "Santôsha". With them, 

you experience how some of Portugal's above mentioned typical dishes get prepared in a veganized way. 

In conclusion, while the Pastel de Nata may be the best-known example of Portuguese cuisine, there's so much more to discover when it comes to the country's food. From seafood stews to cured meats, bread to sweet treats, Portugal's diverse culinary traditions are a reflection of its long and varied history. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just looking to try something new, there's no better place to explore the delicious and varied cuisine of Portugal.

Bom apetite! 

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