Portugal

Portuguese cuisine has influences from many different countries. Portugal's desserts were traditionally developed in monasteries and have significant external culinary influences. Around the coastline, you will find delicious seafood dishes such as octopus and Bacalhau fish. Portugal is the largest manufacturer of citrus fruits around Europe hence they are a popular ingredient in a variety of pastries. As for the customary culinary practices in Portugal, most enjoy a light breakfast with juice and a pastry. Later on, lunch and dinner are considered the larger meals of the day.

custard pastry

These very famous Portuguese custard tarts are called Pastéis de Nata. If you are in Libson, you must try one of these delicious pastries at none other than the renowned Pastéis de Belém bakery. With a crispy outside and a soft egg custard filling, these pastries are crafted to perfection. The best way to eat them is warm and fresh out of the oven, so try to eat them the same day you make them.

octopus

If you are a fan of seafood, you must try the Grilled Octopus or Polvo Grelhado as it is called in Portuguese. This is another famous Portuguese seafood dish that is cooked to perfection. The octopus is usually grilled giving it a smokey crust, and seasoned with parsley and garlic.

bacalhau-fish

Bacalhau-a-Braz is one of the most popular dishes in Portugal. The cod fish itself is widely used in many Portuguese dishes as it has more than 300 recipes with the fish. Bacalhau-a-Braz takes its name from its creator. The dish contains pieces of the cod fish, onions and (in some cases) strings of fries soaked in an egg-based cream. Not all dishes are cooked the same, but they all taste equally as delicious!