Portuguese culinary traditions are a unique and delightful blend of influences from all over the world. Their cuisine is built on ancient beliefs, exotic spices, and an unbreakable bond with the sea. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet custard tarts or savory sardines, Portuguese cuisine has something to offer for everyone. In this blog post, we dive into the rich history of Portugal’s food and how its evolution over time has contributed to the nation’s unique cuisine.
Portuguese cuisine originated from its long tradition of sailing, fishing, and farming. All of these elements had an impact on the development of the cuisine as we know it today. Additionally, the discovery of spices on trade routes sparked an expansion in port towns and increased trade. The Portuguese exploration of lands beyond their borders influenced food and cooking methods as new ingredients were added to the culinary repertoire.
One such staple in Portuguese cuisine is the seafood. The country’s long coastline offers a variety of fresh seafood options, from shrimp to octopus. One example of a seafood dish that is a regular staple in Portuguese restaurants is Bacalhau, a delicacy made by boiling and frying salted cod. This dish illustrates the influence of the fishing industry on Portuguese cuisine.
Another food with an interesting origin is Chouriço, a type of sausage made from pork that is heavily spiced and dry-cured. This type of sausage is very popular in the North region of Portugal, but it was initially the Magiculos, a people from today’s Angola, who taught the settlers the art of making sausages. Portuguese cuisine fused with African influences in the north of the country, contributing to a unique blend of flavors.
Portugal’s historic connection with the ancient Roman Empire and their colonization of Brazil also contributed a number of interesting ingredients in the Portuguese kitchen. For example, the small mountain town of Covilhã in Portugal has an ancient Spanish chestnut tree that dates from the Roman era. Chestnuts are used in the preparation of one of the most traditional Portuguese sweets, the Castanha de Ovos, which consists of filling a chestnut shell-shaped mold with chestnut puree mixed with egg yolks and sugar syrup.
When exploring Portuguese cuisine, it’s impossible not to acknowledge the nation’s love for pastries. The most famous example of this is the Pastel de Nata, a Portuguese egg tart pastry. Dating back to the 18th century, these tarts are enjoyed all over the world. Legend has it that the recipe was created in the monasteries of Belem during a time when there were an excess of egg yolks; the monks didn’t want to waste them and so the perfect recipe for Pastel de Nata was born.
History on Portuguese Cuisine:
Portuguese cuisine has undergone a long and winding journey throughout history, but its flavors continue to make an impact all over the world. From the influence of African-originated sausage making to custard tarts concocted by dedicated monks, this is a cuisine steeped in tradition and passion. The food in Portugal is a reflection of the country’s diverse and complex past, its spices, trade, and techniques influenced by centuries of colonization, exploration, and development. However, the one thing that remains constant is the nation’s love for fresh ingredients and their commitment to honoring their culinary heritage. There’s no better time to bask in the fantastic tastes of Portuguese cuisine and experience its unique history.
