Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, is a treasure trove of rich history, vibrant culture, and, perhaps most enticingly, extraordinary culinary delights. Known for its wine, Porto also offers a diverse array of traditional dishes that reflect the city’s maritime heritage, fertile lands, and age-old culinary traditions. In this article, we’ll embark on a journey through the flavours of Porto, exploring the typical Portuguese dishes that are a must-try for any visitor.
1. Francesinha
No exploration of Porto’s cuisine would be complete without mentioning the Francesinha, a hearty and indulgent sandwich that is a staple of the city. Invented in the 1950s, the Francesinha is a Portuguese take on the French croque-monsieur. It’s made with layers of bread, cured meats (like ham, sausage, and roast meat), covered in melted cheese, and then drenched in a spicy tomato and beer sauce. The dish is typically served with fries on the side, and some variations include a fried egg on top. The secret lies in the sauce, and each restaurant boasts its unique recipe, making the Francesinha experience slightly different each time.
2. Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá
Portugal’s love affair with bacalhau (salted codfish) is legendary, and there are over a thousand ways to prepare it. One iconic dish from Porto is Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá. Named after its creator, José Luís Gomes de Sá, a 19th-century merchant from Porto, this dish is a comforting combination of flaked cod, onions, potatoes, black olives, and hard-boiled eggs, baked together with olive oil and a touch of garlic. The dish is simple yet flavourful, reflecting the essence of Portuguese cuisine: fresh ingredients prepared with care and love.
3. Tripas à Moda do Porto
Tripas à Moda do Porto (Porto-style tripe) is a dish that holds a significant place in the city’s history and identity. The origin of this dish dates back to the 15th century, when the citizens of Porto provided their best meats to the fleet of Prince Henry the Navigator, keeping only the tripe for themselves. This sacrifice led the people of Porto to be nicknamed “tripeiros”, or tripe-eaters. The dish consists of slow-cooked tripe with white beans, smoked meats, and a variety of sausages, all simmered in a rich broth. The result is a tasty, hearty stew that embodies the spirit of Porto.
4. Caldo Verde
Caldo Verde is one of Portugal’s most beloved soups and is particularly popular in the northern regions, including Porto. This simple yet nourishing soup is made with finely shredded kale, potatoes, onions, garlic, and slices of chorizo. Traditionally served at celebrations and family gatherings, Caldo Verde is a dish that warms both the body and the soul, symbolizing the comfort and warmth of Portuguese hospitality.
5. Rojões à Moda do Minho
While this dish hails from the Minho region, its popularity in Porto cannot be overstated. Rojões à Moda do Minho is a traditional pork dish, in which chunks of marinated pork are slow-cooked until tender. The pork is often served with fried potatoes, pickled vegetables, and sometimes with sarrabulho, a type of blood pudding, which adds depth and richness. This dish showcases the robust flavors typical of northern Portuguese cuisine.
6. Pastel de Nata
No meal in Porto would be complete without indulging in Portugal’s most famous dessert, the Pastel de Nata. While this creamy custard tart is often associated with Lisbon, it’s well-loved and served throughout the country. The combination of a flaky, buttery crust and a rich, eggy custard filling, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar, makes it the perfect sweet treat to end a meal. Pair it with a shot of strong espresso, and you have the quintessential Portuguese café experience.
7. Port Wine
Of course, no culinary journey through Porto would be complete without mentioning Port wine, the city’s most famous export. Port wine is a fortified wine produced in the Douro Valley, and it comes in several varieties, including Ruby, Tawny, and White. Each type has its own distinct flavour profile, from the sweet and fruity notes of Ruby to the rich nuttiness of Tawny. A visit to one of the many Port wine cellars along the Douro River allows tourists to learn about the wine-making process and enjoy a tasting.
The flavours of Porto are a reflection of the city’s history, culture, and the abundance of its land and sea. From the indulgent Francesinha to the comforting Caldo Verde, and the iconic Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá to the sweet Pastel de Nata, Porto’s traditional dishes offer a culinary experience that is both diverse and deeply rooted in tradition. Whether you’re a foodie eager to explore new tastes or a traveller looking to connect with the local culture, Porto’s culinary landscape is sure to leave a lasting impression.
