Portuguese cuisine is rich and diverse, offering a wide variety of flavors and ingredients. Here are some delicious Portuguese dishes to try as a tourist:
1. Bacalhau à Brás: A popular dish made with salted cod, onions, potatoes, eggs, and olives, seasoned with parsley and garlic.
2. Pastéis de Nata: These creamy custard tarts with a flaky pastry crust are a must-try Portuguese dessert, often sprinkled with cinnamon or powdered sugar.
3. Francesinha: Originating from Porto, this hearty sandwich consists of layers of bread, ham, linguiça (smoked sausage), fresh sausage, and steak, topped with melted cheese and a spicy tomato sauce.
4. Caldo Verde: A traditional Portuguese soup made with kale, potatoes, onions, garlic, and chorizo or other smoked sausage, seasoned with olive oil and served hot.
5. Arroz de Marisco: A flavorful seafood rice dish cooked with a variety of shellfish such as shrimp, clams, and mussels, seasoned with garlic, tomatoes, and herbs.
6. Feijoada: A hearty stew made with beans, pork or beef, and smoked sausages, often served with rice and orange slices.
7. Polvo à Lagareiro: Grilled octopus drizzled with olive oil and served with roasted potatoes and garlic.
8. Sardinhas Assadas: Grilled sardines seasoned with sea salt and served with a squeeze of lemon, a quintessential Portuguese summer dish.
9. Cataplana de Marisco: A seafood stew cooked in a traditional cataplana (copper clam-shaped pot), with a variety of shellfish, fish, onions, tomatoes, and herbs.
10. Arroz de Pato: Duck rice cooked with chorizo, bacon, and olives, seasoned with herbs and spices, and baked until golden brown.
11. Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato: Clams cooked with garlic, coriander, olive oil, and white wine, a simple and delicious seafood dish.
12. Cozido à Portuguesa: A hearty Portuguese stew made with a variety of meats, such as pork, beef, and chicken, along with potatoes, carrots, and cabbage.
13. Queijo da Serra: A creamy and aromatic cheese from the Serra da Estrela region, often served with bread and honey.
14. Portuguese Wine: Don't forget to try some of Portugal's excellent wines, including Port wine from the Douro Valley, Vinho Verde from the Minho region, and red and white wines from various other regions.
15. Ginjinha: A cherry liqueur made from sour cherries, sugar, and aguardente (a type of brandy), often served in a chocolate cup.
These are just a few examples of the delicious dishes and drinks you can enjoy while exploring Portugal. Make sure to also sample regional specialties and local delicacies during your visit!