Seafood Galore: Fresh Catches from Portugal's Coast
Portugal's coast has always been known for its vibrant and bountiful seafood. The country's long-standing fishing traditions have created a culture that embraces the sea's delicious offerings. From prawns to octopus, swordfish to sardines, there is an abundance of seafood from the Atlantic Ocean that is served fresh in Portugal's coastal towns and cities.
In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the most popular seafood in Portugal, along with where to find them and how they are traditionally prepared. So get ready to explore the wonderful world of Portuguese seafood!
Clams and Mussels
Clams and mussels are a staple in Portuguese cuisine. They can be found in many traditional dishes, such as seafood rice or cataplana (a delicious seafood stew). These little shellfish are often steamed with garlic, white wine and parsley and served with crusty bread, perfect for dipping in the sauce.
One of the best places to try these dishes is in the coastal town of Setúbal, located south of Lisbon. Not only is the seafood here incredibly fresh, but the town is also famous for its cataplana, which comes served in a copper pot that is shaped like a clamshell.
Sardines
Sardines are perhaps the most iconic seafood in Portugal. Grilled sardines are a simple yet delicious dish that can be found all over the country. They are usually served with boiled potatoes, roasted peppers, and a simple salad.
If you're looking for the best sardines, then head to the city of Porto, where they are a local delicacy. In late June, the city even hosts a festival called São João, where locals grill sardines on the streets and throw parties until the early hours of the morning.
Octopus
Octopus is another Portuguese favorite that is often served grilled with olive oil and garlic or boiled with potatoes. The texture of octopus can be quite chewy, so it's often cooked for a long time to make it more tender.
One of the best places to try grilled octopus is in the city of Aveiro, located in central Portugal. Here, it's often served with rice or potatoes and a salad of fresh greens.
Prawns
Prawns, or camarão in Portuguese, are a popular seafood snack that can be found all over Portugal. They are often served grilled with garlic and lemon or in a spicy sauce.
One of the best places to try prawns is in the coastal town of Ericeira, located northwest of Lisbon. Here, they are served with a variety of sauces and dips, including a spicy piri-piri sauce that's sure to make your taste buds tingle.
Cod
Cod, or bacalhau, is another beloved seafood in Portugal. It's often salted and dried before being cooked, which gives it a unique texture and flavor. There are many traditional dishes made with cod, including bacalhau à brás (a dish of shredded cod, potatoes, and eggs) and bacalhau com natas (a creamy cod gratin).
If you're looking for the best cod dishes, then head to the city of Lisbon, where there are countless restaurants serving up traditional Portuguese dishes. One of the most popular is A Casa do Bacalhau, which has been serving up delicious cod dishes since 1937.
In Conclusion
Portugal's coast is a seafood lover's paradise. From clams to sardines, octopus to prawns, there is an abundance of delicious seafood to try. Whether you're looking for a simple grilled dish or a traditional seafood stew, there is something for everyone in Portugal. So why not take a trip to this beautiful country and try some of the best seafood in the world?