Spicy Portuguese food
Beyond stunning coastlines and rich culture, Portugal boasts a vibrant culinary scene, as diverse and flavourful as its history. Influenced by past colonies, Portuguese cuisine is a delightful tapestry of fresh, seasonal ingredients and aromatic herbs. A surprising touch – chillies – brings a subtle heat. While not known for overwhelming spice, Portugal uses chillies strategically to add depth to iconic dishes.
Get ready for a culinary adventure through Portugal! We’ll delve into ten
delectable dishes that showcase the country’s love for a fiery kick. Each dish adds a unique twist, taking you on a journey through Portugal’s diverse flavours. From succulent grilled meats to comforting stews and vibrant seafood creations, these offerings will tantalize your taste buds.
From trendy Lisbon restaurants to traditional Alentejo villages, these fiery dishes are enjoyed by all. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or a curious palate, Portuguese cuisine has something to offer. These spicy dishes highlight the versatility and depth of Portuguese cuisine. Chillies, though not the centre piece, enhance the flavours and add an exciting kick to these traditional recipes that have been brought back from previous Portuguese colonies far and wide across the globe
Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or just looking to add a bit of heat to your meals, these Portuguese dishes with chillies offer a delicious way to experience the rich culinary heritage of Portugal. We wish you a hearty bom apetite!
Iconic Portuguese dishes
Prepare to be surprised by the fiery soul simmering beneath many Portuguese dishes. These aren’t just about heat; they’re about balance. Chilies add warmth and complexity, creating a harmonious experience. From bustling Lisbon to quaint Alentejo villages, these dishes showcase Portuguese chefs’ creativity.
- Piri – Piri Chicken: Fiery bird’s eye chilies, smoky paprika, and juicy chicken combine in this signature dish. Marinated for bold flavour, it’s grilled to crispy perfection and traditionally served with rice or a cooling salad. For great recipe click here
- Chouriço Assado: This sizzling appetizer brings drama to the table. Spicy red peppers and aguardente brandy ignite the sliced chourico, creating a smoky, caramelized crust that gives way to tender, flavourful sausage inside.
- Piri Piri Prawns: Succulent prawns bathe in a vibrant marinade of fiery chillies, garlic, zesty lemon juice, and paprika. Grilled to juicy perfection, Piri- Piri prawns are perfect for sharing or a light main course.
- Spicy Caldo Verde: This comforting soup gets a fiery upgrade. Finely chopped red chilies add a subtle heat that complements the savoury kale, creamy potatoes, and smoky chouriço sausage. Ideal for a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch.
- Spicy Arroz de Marisco: A vibrant take on paella, this dish features a medley of seafood treasures. Clams, mussels, shrimp, and squid are cooked with Arborio rice in a flavourful broth infused with tomatoes, garlic, white wine, and a touch of chillies. Fresh parsley adds a final touch to this festive dish.
- Pica Pau: This bar favourite packs a punch. Bite-sized pieces of pork or beef are stir-fried with garlic, tangy mustard, and crunchy pickles. A generous amount of chillies adds a spicy kick, making it the perfect accompaniment to a cold beer.
- Spicy Feijoada: This hearty bean stew gets a depth boost. Red or white beans are simmered with a variety of meats like sausage and pork, while the addition of red chillies brings a touch of heat and complexity. Slow-cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices, Feijoada is a flavourful and comforting meal.
- Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato with Chilies: Classic Portuguese clams get a spicy twist. Freshly shucked clams are bathed in a garlicky broth with white wine and coriander. A touch of chillies enhances the natural brininess of the clams, creating a delicious starter or light main course served with crusty bread for soaking up the flavourful sauce.
- Sardines Assadas with Chillies: A taste of summer, these grilled sardines are a Portuguese staple. Marinated with chopped red chillies, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice, they get a smoky kick from the grill. Enjoy them with roasted potatoes and bell peppers for a complete summer feast.
- Spicy Carne de Porco à Alentejana: A hearty dish from the Alentejo region. Marinated pork and clams are simmered together in a rich sauce, with chillies adding an extra layer of spice. Fresh coriander provides a bright contrast, while fried potatoes round out this satisfying and flavourful meal.