Exploring the Flavours of Portugal: Portuguese-Style Chicken and Portuguese Tarts

Portugal, located in Southern Europe, is a captivating country that boasts a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture. Sharing a border with Spain on the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal offers a unique blend of influences from both its neighbouring countries and beyond. One aspect that showcases this cultural fusion is its cuisine, which combines traditional Portuguese flavours with French and Mediterranean influences. In this blog post, we will explore two delicious dishes that will transport you to Portugal: Portuguese-style chicken and Portuguese tarts.

Portuguese-Style Chicken

Portuguese-style chicken, also known as Frango à Portuguesa, is a mouth-watering dish that showcases the flavours and spices commonly found in Portuguese cuisine. This dish typically involves marinating chicken pieces in a flavourful blend of herbs, spices, and citrus juices before grilling or roasting them to perfection. To make this dish, start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of garlic, paprika, chili flakes, lemon juice, and olive oil. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour, or preferably overnight, to ensure that the flavours penetrate the meat. Once marinated, grill or roast the chicken until it is cooked through and has a deliciously crispy skin. Serve the Portuguese-style chicken with a side of sautéed vegetables and roasted potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal. The combination of flavours and textures in this dish will transport you to the sunny streets of Portugal, where delicious food is a way of life.

Portuguese Tarts

No visit to Portugal would be complete without indulging in the famous Portuguese tarts, also known as Pastéis de Nata. These delectable custard tarts are a true delight and are loved by locals and visitors alike. To make Portuguese tarts at home, you will need puff pastry, eggs, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Start by rolling out the puff pastry and cutting it into small circles. Line a muffin tin with the pastry circles, pressing them gently into the moulds to create a tart shell. Next, prepare the custard filling by whisking together eggs, sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Pour the custard mixture into the pastry shells and bake them in the oven until the custard is set and the pastry is golden brown. Once the tarts are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Before serving, dust the tarts with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon, which adds a delightful aroma and flavour. These Portuguese tarts are best enjoyed warm, with a cup of coffee or tea. The creamy custard filling and flaky pastry crust create a harmonious combination that will transport your taste buds straight to the charming cafes of Lisbon.

Portuguese cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavours from Portugal, France, and the Mediterranean. By preparing Portuguese-style chicken and Portuguese tarts, you can bring a taste of Portugal to your dinner table. Whether you are exploring the country or simply want to experience its culinary delights, these dishes will transport you to the vibrant streets of Portugal, where food is a celebration of culture and tradition. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the flavors, and enjoy the journey through Portuguese cuisine.