Don’t leave Portugal without trying these dishes and drinks

Portugal is celebrated for its rich culture, stunning landscapes – and its exceptional food and drink. Portuguese cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean, Moorish, and Atlantic influences, resulting in a diverse range of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Here’s what not to miss…

Bacalhau à Brás (Salted codfish with potatoes and eggs)

Bacalhau, or salted codfish, is a staple in Portuguese cuisine, and there are said to be over a thousand ways to prepare it. One of the most beloved preparations is Bacalhau à Brás. In this dish, shredded codfish is mixed with thinly sliced potatoes, sautéed onions, garlic, and parsley, all bound together with scrambled eggs.

Feijoada (Portuguese bean stew)

Feijoada is a hearty and flavorful bean stew that's traditionally made with a variety of meats such as sausages, pork, and beef, simmered together with black beans. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld, creating a rich and smoky taste. It's often served with rice and accompanied by orange slices to cut through the richness of the dish.

Pastéis de Nata (Portuguese custard tarts)

No culinary journey through Portugal would be complete without indulging in a few Pastéis de Nata. These sweet, creamy custard tarts are encased in flaky, buttery pastry and often dusted with cinnamon or powdered sugar. Originally created by monks in the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, these delightful pastries have become an iconic Portuguese treat. 

Francesinha

For those who crave a hearty, spicy, and cheesy sandwich, look no further than the Francesinha. Hailing from the city of Porto, this sandwich is a carnivore's dream. It typically features layers of thinly sliced cured meats, such as ham and linguiça (smoked sausage), stacked between bread slices, then covered in a rich tomato and beer sauce and topped with melted cheese. It's often served with a side of crispy French fries.

Vinho Verde (Green wine)

Portugal is known for its excellent wine, and one of the most unique and refreshing options is Vinho Verde. Contrary to what the name suggests, Vinho Verde isn't green in color but is rather a crisp, young white wine known for its slight effervescence. It pairs perfectly with seafood dishes and is a great choice for warm summer evenings.

Ginjinha (Cherry liqueur)

Ginjinha is a sweet and potent cherry liqueur that's a popular aperitif in Portugal. Made from sour cherries, sugar, and a dash of cinnamon, it's often served in small glasses and garnished with a whole cherry. It's a delightful way to end a meal but it can also be sipped on its own as a digestif.

Caldo Verde (Green soup)

Caldo Verde is a comforting and nourishing soup that originates from the Minho region of Portugal. It features finely shredded kale or collard greens, thinly sliced potatoes, and slices of Portuguese chorizo, all simmered in a flavorful broth. Drizzle some olive oil on top and enjoy this soothing soup with a slice of crusty bread.

Port wine

Portugal the only home of traditional Port wine, which hails from the Douro Valley. This sweet and fortified wine comes in various styles, including Ruby, Tawny, and Vintage. It's often enjoyed as an aperitif or paired with desserts like cheese, chocolate, or dried fruits. If it doesn’t come for Portugal, it’s not Port… 

Portugal's culinary scene is a testament to its rich history, diverse landscapes, and the passion of its people. Taste it for yourself on a culinary adventure with SA Expeditions. First check out our sample Portugal itineraries. Then speak to a Destination Expert about crafting your own adventurous recipe. Bom apetite!