Portuguese cuisine
Photo: Uxbona, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Portuguese cuisine comes from mainland Europe's westernmost country. Portugal's Atlantic coast and the Age of Discovery have left their marks on the nation's cooking. Although Portugal does not lie on the Mediterranean Sea, its food is compared with those cuisines and is often classified as such. Portugal's only neighbour is Spain, and while their cuisines share some common traits, they have numerous differences. Among Spain's regional cuisines, Galician is closest to Portuguese. The Portuguese tend to have a sweet tooth, so sugar-laden desserts and snacks can be found all over.
UnderstandPortuguese cooking uses simple ingredients and uncomplicated techniques. It's a cuisine based in the countryside and on the coast, passed down to current generations from their farming and fishing ancestors.
IngredientsOrganic food, labeled biológico (-a/-os/-as) and sometimes shortened to bio, is widespread in Portugal, from supermarkets to farmers' markets to specialty shops.
Dishes
SweetsYou can satisfy your sweet tooth by making a bee line for the nearest pastelaria (pastry shop) or café.
Regional specialities
BeveragesAlthough sources disagree on the country's exact rank, Portugal is one of the world's top nations in per capita wine consumption. It produces many varieties of vinho (wine) in various regions throughout the country.
EateriesRestaurante is the general Portuguese word for a restaurant and is the word that travellers will most often encounter on eatery signs.
Dietary restrictionsVegetarians should have little trouble in finding food options that meet their needs. Vegans will have a tougher time, but with some diligence will find vegan-friendly restaurants in medium and large cities.
See also
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Portuguese cuisine" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: Uxbona, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons