Portuguese food – a tasty experience

Taste Portugal – A journey through the country's food, drink and culture

Portugal is known for its stunning beaches, picturesque villages, and, of course, its unique cuisine. The country's food culture is a mix of flavors and traditions that have evolved over several hundred years. If you're thinking about moving to Portugal or just dreaming of a vacation there, it's a good idea to start by exploring their amazing food culture! In this article, we'll take a closer look at the most popular Portuguese foods and what you can expect to eat when you visit the country.

What do you eat in Portugal?

In Portugal, the food is very much about simple, rustic dishes with fresh ingredients. Seafood plays a central role in the Portuguese diet, especially in coastal areas. But meat dishes, vegetable dishes and pastries are also common. Many dishes are based on olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, which gives them a lovely and natural taste. When you visit Portugal, you will have the opportunity to enjoy food that is both delicious and affordable.

Portugal's national dish – bacalhau

One of the most iconic dishes in Portugal is bacalhau, or dried and salted cod. There are as many ways to cook bacalhau as there are days of the year, making it a true part of Portuguese food culture. Bacalhau can be prepared in many different ways: fried, boiled, in pots or with potatoes and vegetables. For many Portuguese, bacalhau is a natural dish to eat, especially on holidays and festive occasions.

Pastel de Nata – Portugal's famous pastry

Pastel de Nata is undoubtedly one of Portugal's most beloved desserts. These small, creamy pastries with a crunchy exterior are filled with a smooth vanilla custard and topped with a lightly burnt layer of sugar. They are often served freshly baked and hot, which makes them even more irresistible. Pastel de Nata can be found everywhere in Portugal, from the small cafes of Lisbon to bakeries in the countryside. Whether you're for a quick coffee break or a long lunch, Pastel de Nata is sure to make your visit to Portugal even sweeter.

Caldo Verde – A warming soup

Caldo Verde is a classic Portuguese soup that warms both body and soul. It is especially popular during the winter months and is often served at family dinners and festive occasions. The soup is a lovely mix of potatoes, kale and chorizo, and it gets its flavorful and slightly smoky character from the sausage. Caldo Verde is a simple dish, but the rustic flavors make it a real comfort food.

Portugal's drinks – a feast for the senses

When enjoying Portuguese food, you also can't miss out on all the great drinks that the country has to offer. One of the most famous drinks is port wine, a sweet and strong wine originally from the Douro Valley in northern Portugal. Port wine is perfect to end a good dinner or to enjoy on a sunny terrace.

Another popular drink that you should try is Ginja, a cherry liqueur that has its roots in Lisbon and Alcobaça. This strong, sweet liqueur is often served with a piece of fruit and is a favorite among tourists and locals alike.

For those who prefer something lighter, a glass of vinho verde or a Portuguese beer is a good choice, two drinks that are often served with the rustic dishes. The bright and fresh taste of a cold beer perfectly complements the salty and spicy flavors of grilled chicken or fish dishes.

Food in Portugal – a cultural experience

Food in Portugal is more than just nutrition; It is an important part of the country's culture and a reason to gather. Here it is not just about filling the stomach, but about creating a sense of community and enjoying the good things in life together. Meals are often slow, social events, where both family and friends gather around the table to share several dishes and conversations. Food in Portugal is seen as a way to create and strengthen relationships, and it's not uncommon for a dinner to last for several hours, with plenty of dishes and breaks to converse, laugh, and socialize.

In the small Portuguese villages and towns, you will often find charming taverna-like restaurants where local dishes are served. These small, family-run places offer a genuine taste of Portugal and offer an insight into the regional differences in food culture. In every corner of the country, you can discover new flavors and dishes depending on your location. In the Algarve, for example, seafood and fish are dominant, while the hinterland offers hearty stews and meat-based dishes. The regions in the north often focus on rich soups and pork, while the southern parts are known for their grilled dishes and healthy vegetable-based meals.

Many Portuguese meals are divided into several small dishes, such as starters (entradas), main courses (prato principal) and desserts (sobremesas). This allows you to sample a variety of flavors and ingredients, from savory chorizo to fruity pastries, making every meal a little feast for the taste buds.

So when you travel to Portugal, think of the food as a cultural experience – not just a quick lunch or dinner, but as an opportunity to understand and experience the country's traditions, history, and the people who make it possible to preserve these ancient recipes.

Are you dreaming of a life in Portugal? Start your journey at Skandiamäklarna

Living in Portugal doesn't just mean being surrounded by beautiful landscapes and sunny days – it's also a chance to live close to a rich and flavorful food culture where every meal becomes an experience. For those who dream of a life with fresh fish for lunch, freshly baked Pastel de Nata for afternoon coffee and wine from the local vineyard for dinner, Portugal may be the place to call home.

With the help of Skandiamäklarna's experienced real estate agents in Portugal , it will be easier to find the right one – whether you are looking for an apartment on the coast, a house in a charming village or something in between.

Welcome to discover Portugal with both your taste buds and your heart!