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Aug 1, 2023 · The most famous food in Lisbon is probably the pastel de nata, a rich custard tart invented in the Belém district. Lisbon is also known for its infinite bacalhau (salt cod) dishes, as well as conservas (canned seafood), caldo verde (traditional soup), and the bifana (pork sandwich)—plus much more!
Discover 40 traditional Portuguese foods, from savory classics to sweet delights, and immerse in Portugal's rich culinary heritage.
- Bacalhau. Bacalhau, i.e., salted codfish, is the national dish of Portugal and locals claim that over 1000 recipes exist with this unique ingredient. Starting in the Age of Exploration, Portuguese navigators began catching cod in Norweigan waters and heavily salting it until it became like fish jerky.
- Polvo à lagareiro. When I returned to Lisbon, I ate polvo (octopus) every damn day. It’s on almost all menus and it comes straight out of the sea. Generally, it’s boiled and baked, then smothered in garlicky olive oil and served with smashed potatoes.
- Sardinhas assadas. While sardines are a year-round staple, there’s no better time to eat them fresh-off-the-grill than during the Feast of St. Anthony in June.
- Açorda. I’ve never found a dish quite like açorda outside of Portugal. This hearty stew is made of bread, seafood, and garlicky herbs with a fresh-cracked egg stirred in tableside.
Jul 13, 2023 · Octopus is very popular in Portugal and is prepared several different ways, but this was my favorite. I ate Polvo à Lagareiro several times at a restaurant called El-Rei Dom Frango. (We decided that this was our #1 favorite spot to find the best traditional Portuguese food in Lisbon.
Jan 18, 2024 · In Lisbon, head to O Pitéu da Graça, a gastronomic reference point for traditional Portuguese cuisine for over 30 years. The Francesinha is a sauce-covered sandwich that’s popular as a hangover cure in Porto.
- Kevin Raub
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Feb 28, 2024 · Bacalhau (dried, salted cod) is Portugal’s national dish, although saying national dish is a bit confusing as there really isn’t just one recipe for bacalhau: rumour has it that there are more than 365 different ways to cook bacalhau, and some people say that’s even an under-estimation.
May 12, 2017 · A romp around Lisbon is a captivating assault on the senses, and no trip is complete without exploring the local cuisine. Portuguese cuisine is varied and rich, full of aroma and flavour and there are numerous dishes that are considered Lisbon favourites.
