Portuguese cuisine is renowned for its delectable ingredients, which are readily available to many. This is what makes their recipes truly exceptional! It’s no surprise that these dishes have gained popularity worldwide, especially in countries like the USA, where families brought their traditional Portuguese culinary traditions with them upon arriving in the late 1800s.
Portugal’s unique geography, with a significant portion of its landmass bordering the ocean, provides an abundance of fresh fish and seafood. As such, it’s no surprise that these ingredients are staples at mealtimes in Portuguese cuisine, giving dishes a distinct Mediterranean flair.
The foundation of many popular Portuguese recipes lies in the use of high-quality olive oils, fragrant Mediterranean herbs, and pungent garlic. These fundamental elements provide a rich base for a wide range of dishes, which are further elevated by an assortment of proteins including pork, beef, poultry, and game.
After carefully curating some of the most traditional, mouth-watering, and beloved Portuguese recipes, I’m thrilled to share this collection with you!
Best Portuguese Recipes
Clam Chowder
Rich and bold, this tomato-based chowder defies categorization as either stew or soup. The robust flavor profile originates from a foundation of sautéed onion, garlic, and pepper, which is elevated by the savory presence of spicy sausage. This recipe serves as an excellent introduction to cooking clams for novices, showcasing just how effortless their preparation can be.
Braised Deer Shank
Indulge in the tender, slow-cooked goodness of this fall-apart meat dish, perfect for a chilly day. While deer shank is the traditional choice, you can easily substitute lamb to achieve equally impressive results. The harmonious blend of flavors from molasses, bay leaves, black pepper, juniper berries, crispy bacon, and rich red wine will transport your taste buds to a cozy haven.
Shrimp Mozambique
Inspired by Portugal’s historical African colony, this rich and flavorful dish is a true culinary delight. The combination of sautéed onions and garlic, paired with the depth of beer or wine, and succulent shrimp, creates a buttery taste experience that is sure to leave you wanting more.
Pudim Molotof Caramel Souffle
Indulge in the sweet treat that’s as light as a cloud! This sugar-free rendition of a beloved Portuguese dessert is a must-try, requiring only two simple ingredients: egg whites and a sugar substitute. The result is a cake-like confection that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on taste or texture. As a traditional finale to any Portuguese meal, this heavenly delight is sure to leave you wanting more.
Kale Soup
This hearty kale soup recipe features chouriço, a type of Portuguese sausage, as its star ingredient. However, feel free to substitute it with other spicy cooked sausages like salami or chorizo for added flavor. The foundation of the dish is a comforting base of potatoes, which pairs perfectly with the nutritious and healthy addition of kale. As a result, this soup makes for an excellent mid-week meal option that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Additionally, it pairs surprisingly well with Portuguese wine, making it a great choice for a family dinner.
Chicken Madeira
The inclusion of Madeira wine lends this dish its unmistakable flavor, which is nothing short of captivating. When combined with melted mozzarella and a rich, creamy sauce infused with earthy mushrooms, it transforms into an exquisite entertainment option that’s sure to impress. Furthermore, the addition of asparagus towards the end of cooking introduces a delightful twist to this classic recipe, elevating its overall appeal.
Rice Pudding
In Portugal, Arroz Doce is a beloved rice pudding that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. What sets it apart from other rice puddings is its unique texture – the addition of eight egg yolks gives it a rich and creamy consistency that’s simply divine. The dish is infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the brightness of lemon, making it a perfect accompaniment to any Portuguese meal. And the best part? It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover egg yolks, reducing food waste while still indulging in a decadent dessert.
Piri Piri Chicken
Piri Piri chicken is a flavorful Portuguese dish that’s both spicy and aromatic, featuring a marinade made from a blend of spices, including dried onion and pepper, garlic, cayenne, sweet smoked paprika, oregano, and parsley. This traditional recipe has African influences and can be served as either a wet or dry rub, making it an excellent choice for a mid- meal option that’s sure to please the whole family. And the best part? It’s incredibly affordable, allowing you to bring a taste of Portugal into your kitchen without breaking the bank.
Sweet Bread
Indulge in the rich flavors of this enriched bread, a simple yet satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion. As you follow the recipe, you’ll embark on a culinary journey through time, tracing the roots of Portuguese cuisine to the families who brought it to America and Hawaii. Join me as we explore the history behind this beloved bread, all while whipping up a delicious loaf that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Scallops
Indulge in this effortless yet delectable dish, perfect for those who adore scallops or seek a straightforward meal solution. The combination of tender scallops and a rich port reduction creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will transport you to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast.
Gluten-Free Caldo Verde
For those who require a gluten-free and dairy-free take on the classic kale soup from Portugal, this revised recipe is an excellent option. Not only does it cater to these dietary restrictions, but it can also be easily adapted to suit vegan preferences by substituting the spicy Portuguese sausage with its plant-based equivalent.
Serradura
Serradura, a Portuguese dessert that literally translates to ‘sawdust pudding,’ may raise eyebrows with its unusual name. But don’t let the label fool you – this sweet treat is a delightful combination of pistachios, almonds, and crushed biscuits, earning it the nickname. The unique texture, reminiscent of sawdust, is a result of the crunchy ingredients coming together to create a truly scrumptious dessert.
Tomato Rice
Based on the classic Portuguese recipe for Arroz malandrinho, this dish seamlessly combines rice, tomatoes, garlic, and onion in a harmonious blend of flavors. While sharing similarities with risotto, it employs long grain rice to create a unique culinary experience. This simple yet satisfying meal is an excellent choice for a mid-week dinner that will transport the essence of Portugal to your kitchen. Moreover, this recipe is incredibly budget-friendly and perfect for larger families seeking affordable and delicious meal options.
Egg Threads
For those who’ve heard whispers of ‘egg threads,’ this Portuguese dessert may spark curiosity. While it does require some effort, the end result is well worth the labor. These delicate strands of eggs are surprisingly versatile, used in both sweet and savory recipes, allowing you to infuse a taste of Portugal into a variety of dishes.
Chocolate Salami
Indulge in the rich flavors of Portugal with this delightful recipe, where the sweetness of chocolate combines harmoniously with eggs and Maria biscuits. A treat that’s not only decadent but also remarkably convenient – it keeps for up to a week in the fridge, allowing you to prepare ahead and slice with ease whenever a sweet craving strikes.
Egg Tart
Portugal’s renowned Pastel de Nata has another variation that’s sure to delight. This rich and buttery custard tart is infused with the deep flavor of vanilla, making it a treat for many palates. Not only does this recipe provide insight into the traditional Portuguese method of preparing egg yolks, but it also serves as a conversation starter when serving guests. As an added bonus, if you happen to have leftover puff pastry sheets, you can try your hand at some impressive phyllo dough recipes.
Fish Stew
Portuguese cuisine wouldn’t be complete without a delicious fish stew, which I’ve discovered has a surprisingly simple recipe that combines the flavors of bell pepper, fresh herbs, and potatoes. The rich broth is crafted with saffron, white wine, cilantro, and tomatoes, offering a genuine taste of Portugal’s culinary heritage.
Whole Wheat Papo Secos
Papo Secos, a quintessential Portuguese bread, is a staple in delis across the country, often used as a canvas for creative sandwich fillings. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for pairing with meats, fish, or vegetables. While its preparation requires a bit of extra effort upfront – think ‘sponge’ method – the end result is well worth the investment of time.
Blade Steak
This affordable cut of beef has undergone a transformation in traditional Portuguese cuisine, where it’s been incorporated into a mouthwatering slow-cooked dish that’s perfect for a family dinner midweek. The recipe combines tender beef with the bold flavors of tomatoes, oregano, and rich red wine, evoking the warmth and vitality of the Mediterranean region.
Biscuit Cake
Indulge in a sweet treat that never gets old: bolo de bolacha, a Portuguese cake delight. This scrumptious dessert features biscuits softened by being soaked in rich coffee, then generously topped with a velvety vanilla buttercream. Get ready to dig in!
Milk Tarts
Indulge in the sweet simplicity of these traditional Portuguese treats. Despite their humble ingredient list – featuring just eggs, sugar, cinnamon, butter, and flour – these tarts pack a big punch. In fact, with a mere whisk of your mixing bowl, you can transport yourself to milk tart heaven. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them the perfect solution for a lazy afternoon or when you’re in desperate need of a baking break.
Chicken Piri Piri
Piri Piri chicken’s widespread appeal warrants offering multiple variations, each tailored to your preferences within this comprehensive collection. This specific recipe presents a rub that can be applied as a paste, complete with step-by-step instructions for cooking on the BBQ. The result is a quintessential summertime dish bursting with spicy flavor.
Pork and Wine Priscos Flan
Imagine being transported to a world of pure indulgence as you take your first bite of Pudim abade de priscos – a rich, sweet delight that will leave you questioning its categorization as sweet or savory. This Portuguese dessert’s true identity is shrouded in mystery, but its history can be uncovered here. As you savor the creamy texture and caramelized top, you’ll discover it’s crafted from humble ingredients like eggs and bacon fat. A flan-like treat infused with a velvety caramel sauce that flows effortlessly across the surface, Pudim abade de priscos is an experience waiting to be devoured.
Potatoes
Essential to any authentic Portuguese meal, these humble potatoes pack a flavorful punch, requiring only a trifecta of trusty ingredients: salt, garlic, and the richness of olive oil.
Grilled Pork with Potatoes and Kale
In Portugal, pork is a staple meat that offers great value for everyday meals due to its affordability. With a variety of recipes available, including the link provided, you can easily incorporate it into your meal planning. The accompanying potato and kale side dish can be adapted to pair with other proteins as well. Meanwhile, the simple yet effective rub added to the potatoes is a game-changer that elevates this humble ingredient into something truly special.
Fish Pie
While fish pie doesn’t require an excessive amount of time, it’s crucial that the final product delivers on flavor. This particular recipe takes inspiration from Portuguese cuisine, where a hearty casserole is constructed by combining well-seasoned cod and sautéed onions, topped with a rich mayonnaise and creamy mashed potatoes.
Peri Peri Chicken Pasta
Get ready to stir up some excitement with this innovative take on the traditional Portuguese dish! The rich and velvety Peri Peri sauce perfectly complements the pasta, making it an ideal solution for a speedy and flavorful midweek dinner that’s packed with a punch of spice. With its ease of preparation and bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Peri Peri Sauce
While it’s easy to rely on store-bought Peri Peri sauce for your cooking needs, making your own from scratch can be a game-changer. Not only will you have the satisfaction of creating something entirely yours, but the quality and flavor are likely to surpass anything you’d find in a bottle. With this homemade Peri Peri sauce, you’ll be equipped with the perfect condiment for a wide range of dishes, allowing you to elevate your culinary creations without breaking the bank or compromising on taste.
One-Pot Sausage and Kale Soup
In the realm of Portuguese cuisine, sausage and kale have earned a reputation for being a match made in heaven. The harmonious union of these ingredients is taken to new heights with the addition of potatoes, leeks, and two distinct types of sausages, resulting in a dish that is not only satisfying but also deeply comforting.
Peri Peri Prawns
Peri Peri prawns are an excellent choice for any gathering. Their adaptability makes them perfect as an appetizer, a light lunch, or even a snack option. You can easily serve them alongside rice or bread, but honestly, they’re delightful on their own. The recipe’s versatility is one of its greatest strengths.
Roasted Peri Peri Potatoes
When it comes to elevating the flavor of a dish, few ingredients can match the versatility and potency of well-seasoned potatoes. These tubers are an excellent accompaniment to a wide range of meats or fish, and they also make a fantastic addition to a buffet-style spread or tapas menu. The secret to their success lies in the bold, aromatic seasoning used – a delicious variation on the popular Peri Peri flavor that’s sure to outshine even the most well-known chain restaurants.
