What are the Top Portuguese dishes to try?

we all know Portugal is famous for its culture, beautiful landscapes, and long history. But did you know Portugal is also famous for its amazing food? Portuguese cuisine has a lot to offer for its tourist, from tasty seafood dishes to delicious pastries there are plenty on the list to try. Whether you’re planning a trip to Portugal or just want to explore its food, here are some must-try dishes to experience: 

  

I.Bacalhau à Brás (Salted Cod with Potatoes): 

The first one on my list is Bacalhau à Brás. It is a very famous dish to the Portuguese people. The dish normally are prepared with shredded salted cod, onions, garlic, and thinly sliced potatoes. All this ingredients are mixed together with eggs and garnished with parsley and olives. However, there is always a scope to add ingredients with your taste until and unless you dont want to alter the original taste. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that shows off the versatility of salted cod. 

  

II. Francesinha: 

The word Francesinha comes from porto, a hearty sandwich loaded with cured meats like ham, linguiça, and steak, all covered in melted cheese and a spicy tomato and beer sauce. Locals normally eat francesinha with fries on the side, which is a treat for your taste buds. 

  

III. Caldo Verde (Green Soup): 

The next one on my list is Caldo Verde,it is a simple but delicious soup enjoyed all over Portugal. This soup are normally made with kale, potatoes, onions, garlic, and Portuguese chorizo, all these are simmered together until the flavors meld. This soup are normally served hot with a drizzle of olive oil and a slice of bread, it’s the ultimate comfort food must to try by everyone. 

IV. Pastéis de Nata (Portuguese Custard Tarts): 

These iconic custard tarts are a must-try when visiting Portugal. They have a crisp pastry shell filled with creamy custard flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, baked until golden and caramelized. Whether fresh out of the oven or dusted with powdered sugar, they’re a true Portuguese delicacy. And you will find this pastry in any Portuguese cafe or Pastelaria.

V. Arroz de Marisco (Seafood Rice): 

With Portugal’s long coastline, seafood plays a big role in its cuisine. Arroz de Marisco is a flavorful rice dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, herbs, and a mix of fresh seafood like shrimp, clams, mussels, and crab. This dish is normally served with a squeeze of lemon, it’s a seafood lover’s dream. You can order this dish online from your hotel room from any Portuguese restaurant or you can visit your nearby Portuguese cuisine to try this dish.

VI. Cozido à Portuguesa (Portuguese Stew): 

This is also another common Portuguese dish cooked in every Portuguese kitchen. This hearty stew is a traditional favorite dish, made with a variety of meats like pork, beef, and chorizo, along with potatoes, carrots, and cabbage. They are normally prepared in slow flame to make it perfect to taste and it’s often served with rice or bread for a filling meal. 

  

VII. Polvo à Lagareiro (Octopus Lagareiro): 

Octopus is the star of this dish, boiled until tender, then roasted with olive oil, garlic, and herbs until crispy. It is often served with roasted potatoes and extra olive oil, it’s a celebration of Portuguese flavors. As a tourist you can also taste this dish from any nearby Portuguese restaurant or order online from your hotel. However, I recommend you see the menus of a couple of restaurants before ordering online or going in person as prices here vary a lot from restaurants to restaurants.

  

VIII. Bifanas (Pork Sandwiches): 

These simple yet flavorful sandwiches feature thin slices of marinated pork served in a crusty bread roll. Marinated in garlic, paprika, and white wine vinegar, they’re quick to cook and perfect for a satisfying meal on the go. 

  

IX. Cataplana de Marisco (Seafood Cataplana): 

Named after the pot it’s cooked in, this fragrant stew is popular in the Algarve region. It’s made with a broth of tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices, filled with fresh seafood like clams, shrimp, and fish, and slow-cooked to perfection. 

  

X. Queijo da Serra (Serra da Estrela Cheese): 

To end your culinary journey, don’t forget to try some of Portugal’s delicious cheeses. Queijo da Serra is a creamy and tangy cheese made from sheep’s milk in the mountains of Serra da Estrela. Enjoy it with bread and a glass of Portuguese wine for the perfect ending to your meal. 

  

Portugal offers a culinary adventure that’s sure to please any palate. Whether you’re exploring the cities or countryside, be sure to try these top Portuguese dishes for a taste of the country’s delicious cuisine. Enjoy your meal!