Portuguese Cuisine, which is easy to prepare is often described as peasant food. Though it looks simple and the method of preparation is easy, there is no match for taste which we get from the Portuguese food. The simplicity of the Portuguese dishes is such that they can be prepared in a single pot on open fire. The flavor of olive, garlic, onions, herbs and unique spices make them wonderful and aromatic.
Meat is an essential part of Portuguese food. Though Chicken, turkey, lamb, veal, kid and rabbit meat are used for dishes, Pork is the favorite and most frequently used meat in Portuguese dishes. It is interesting to know that the use of meat is essential even in some desserts. Though meat varieties are the Portuguese favorite, fresh fish and shell fish are also found in every menu.
Portuguese steak, ‘Bife’, is a popular dish which has a fried beef or pork sliced and served in a wine based sauce, served along fried potatoes, rice or salad. Another meat delicacy is “Cozidoa Portuguesa”, which is a thick stew made with vegetables and different kinds of meat.
Portuguese have a very simple breakfast consisting of bread roll and a cup of coffee. Lunch and dinner are served in very elaborate manner. Dinner has three courses starting with soup made with potatoes cabbage and sausage. Desserts are also spicy. The common desserts are rice pudding with a dash of cinnamon, caramel custard and lots more. It is said that Portuguese desserts were creations of the Nuns of the 18th century.
Cheese which is locally made out of goat’s milk or ewe’s milk is served with bread and fresh fruits. Though cheese is served as an accompaniment to meals, but it is not included in the dish. So what are you waiting for? Collect the tasty recipes of Portugal and start trying them out. You will definitely love them.