The culinary specialties of northern Portugal

Discover the characteristics of Portuguese cuisine and its culinary specialties

Portuguese cuisine is one of the oldest and most varied in Europe. It is characterized by a wide variety of dishes, ranging from fish to meat, seafood and stews.

Portuguese gastronomy has been influenced over the centuries by Arab, Jewish and Spanish culture, all of which have contributed to its unique culinary richness. The Portuguese are very attached to their food traditions which they have been perpetuating for generations to offer tasty and authentic dishes!

Discover the characteristics of Portuguese gastronomy and some specialties to discover if you go to this wonderful country and mainly to the north of Portugal.

The traditional cuisine of Portugal

Typical recipes often include salted pork accompanied by “a la minute” cooked white rice (arroz doce). This dish can be served with different types of sauces such as the tomato-red pepper sauce called "molho".

There are also many traditional soups such as the Caldo Verde soup composed mainly of finely cut green cabbage, potatoes cooked until obtaining a creamy consistency.

Portuguese cuisine: the culinary specialties of Porto

Porto is a Portuguese city located on the Atlantic coast. It was founded in the 12th century and grew to become one of the largest cities in Portugal, known for its unique architecture and culture rich in history. The cuisine in Porto is characterized by a mixture of European, African and Native American influences which gives local dishes a distinctive flavor. Here are some of the most popular culinary specialties you will find in Porto:

1. Bacalhau: Salted, smoked and dried cod. This fish can be served as a main dish accompanied by hash browns or stuffed with various ingredients such as cheese or black olives. This type of recipe can be found everywhere in Portugal but it is particularly popular in the north of Portugal.
2. Tripas: This typical Portuguese dish usually contains minced tripe that is slowly cooked until it has a tender texture that is pleasantly spiced up with the spices that can be used, such as sweet paprika and garlic. A version very popular with the inhabitants of northern Portugal, also includes chorizo ​​and white beans.
3. Francesinha: Without question, francesinha is THE essential specialty of Porto. It is a very popular kind of sandwich which consists of a variety of meats, usually sausages and/or smoked or grilled ham, as well as various cheeses melted on the bread and traditionally served with a tomato sauce- spiced beer. The name "francesinha" literally means "little Frenchwoman" because of the similarities between this dish and the classic croque-monsieurs made with strong mustard and Gruyère cheese commonly found in France. For this Portuguese version, we use a brioche bun filled with eggs called “pão com chouriço" to give this dish a spongy appearance. Unlike the classic croque-monsieur, the francesinha is sometimes covered with a very fatty layer composed mainly of of melted cheese.
4. Pasteis de nata: these delicacies are delicious Portuguese desserts that are very popular all over the world. These custard cupcakes have a light and crispy texture, with a rich, sweet flavor. They are often served hot or cold with a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the taste.

More about the Francesinha

Are you seduced by Portuguese gastronomy and its culinary specialties? Many bars and restaurants will allow you to taste all its local, traditional and authentic flavors. 

Find restaurantes or bars in northern Portugal