The Portuguese are masters of the grill, and a plate of sizzling churrasco is a must-try in Lisbon. “The essence of Lisbon can be found in its food, a melting pot of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, fresh seafood straight from the Atlantic, and the sweet seduction of pastel de nata.”
Pastel de nata
Pastel de nata is a type of Portuguese egg tart pastry that is very popular in Portugal and in other countries around the world. It is made with a flaky, buttery pastry crust and a creamy egg custard filling that is flavored with vanilla and cinnamon.
The pastries are often served warm and are dusted with powdered sugar. They are a beloved treat in Portugal and are enjoyed as a dessert or a snack.
Bifana Sandwiches
A bifana is a traditional Portuguese sandwich made with marinated pork and served on a Portuguese roll. The pork is typically marinated in a mixture of garlic, vinegar, and spices, and then grilled or cooked on a stovetop.
The sandwich is often served with a variety of toppings, such as diced onions, mustard, and piri piri sauce. Bifanas are a popular street food in Portugal and can be found at many restaurants and food stalls throughout the country. They are typically served hot and are often accompanied by a cold drink or a side of chips.
Bacalhau
Bacalhau is a type of salt cod that is popular in Portuguese cuisine. It is typically prepared by soaking the salt cod in water for a few days to remove the excess salt, then cooking it in a variety of dishes such as “bacalhau à bras” (shredded salt cod mixed with potatoes, onions, and scrambled eggs) or “bacalhau com natas” (salt cod with cream sauce).
Bacalhau is often served on holidays and special occasions in Portugal and is considered a national dish.
Sardinhas (Sardines)
Sardines are a very popular fish in Portugal, where they are often caught in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast. In Portuguese cuisine, sardines are commonly grilled and served as a traditional dish, especially during the summer months.
They are often served with boiled potatoes and vegetables, or on top of bread as a sandwich. Sardines are also used in many other dishes in Portuguese cuisine, such as pastéis de sardinha (sardine pastries) and caldeirada de sardinha (sardine stew). In addition to being a popular food, sardines are also an important part of the Portuguese fishing industry.
Caldo Verde
Caldo verde is a traditional Portuguese soup made with potatoes, collard greens, and slices of sausage. It is a very popular dish in Portugal, and it is often served at celebrations and special occasions.
The soup is usually seasoned with garlic, onions, and olive oil, and it can be garnished with a variety of toppings, such as diced onions, chopped cilantro, and slices of sausage. Some variations of the soup also include ingredients such as kidney beans, ham, or chickpeas.
Piri Piri Chicken
Piri piri chicken is a spicy dish made with chicken that has been marinated in piri piri sauce, a blend of chili peppers, garlic, and other seasonings.
The dish is popular in Portuguese and African cuisine, and is often served with rice or vegetables. It can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried, and is typically spicy, although the level of heat can be adjusted by using more or less piri piri sauce
Chouriço
Chouriço is a type of Portuguese sausage that is made with pork, paprika, and other spices. It is typically made by curing and smoking the sausage, which gives it a distinctive flavor and aroma.
Chouriço is often served as an appetizer or snack, and it is also used as an ingredient in many Portuguese dishes, such as caldo verde (a type of kale and potato soup) and feijoada (a bean and meat stew). It is a popular food in Portugal and in Portuguese-speaking countries around the world.
Alheira.
Alheira is a type of sausage that is traditionally made with a mixture of pork and game meats, such as rabbit, duck, or partridge. It is a popular food in Portugal, particularly in the northern region of the country. Alheira is typically served grilled or fried, and it is often served with a side of fried potatoes or a salad.
The sausage has a distinctive flavor and is typically made with a blend of spices, including paprika, garlic, and parsley. Alheira is also a common ingredient in Portuguese dishes, such as cozido à portuguesa (a type of mixed meat stew).
Azeitão Cheese
Azeitão cheese, also known as queijo de Azeitão, is a traditional Portuguese cheese that is made from sheep’s milk. It is produced in the region of Azeitão, which is located in the Setúbal Peninsula south of Lisbon. Azeitão cheese is a soft, creamy cheese with a pale yellow color and a slightly tangy flavor.
It is often served as a table cheese or used as an ingredient in cooking, particularly in dishes from the Lisbon region. Azeitão cheese is protected by a European Union designation of protected geographical indication (PGI), which means that it can only be produced in the Azeitão region using traditional methods.
Ginjinha
Ginjinha is a traditional Portuguese liqueur made from ginja berries, which are a type of sour cherry. It is a sweet, fruity liqueur with a deep red color and a distinctive flavor. Ginjinha is usually served in small cups or glasses, and it is often consumed as an aperitif or a digestif.
It is a popular drink in Portugal, and it is typically consumed chilled or at room temperature. The liqueur is made by macerating the ginja berries in alcohol and sugar, and it is often flavored with other ingredients such as cinnamon or vanilla. Ginjinha is also known as ginja or ginja de Óbidos, after the town of Óbidos in Portugal where it originated.
