Portuguese cuisine is known for its bold flavors and hearty dishes, and one dish that captures the essence of this cuisine is the alcatra. This traditional Portuguese recipe originated from Terceira, one of the Azores islands, and is a popular dish among locals and tourists alike. The word "alcatra" comes from the Arabic word "al-qatr," meaning "an earthenware pot," which was traditionally used to cook this dish. In this article, we will dive into the history and ingredients of this delicious Portuguese recipe and share a step-by-step guide on how to make it at home.
A classic Portuguese dish, this fish stew is a flavorful and hearty meal that is perfect for a cozy winter evening. Made with a variety of fresh seafood and vegetables, this dish is a delicious way to incorporate more fish into your diet.
Start by sautéing some onions, garlic, and paprika in a large pot. Then add in your favorite fish, such as cod or haddock, along with some clams, mussels, and shrimp.
To give the stew a rich and creamy texture, add in some coconut milk and let it simmer until all the seafood is cooked through. Serve with some crusty bread for dipping and enjoy a taste of Portugal in every bite.
2of 40
Alcatra - Portuguese Pot Roast in the Slow Cooker
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Large Onion, Bay Leaves, Allspice Berries
This Alcatra recipe is a traditional Portuguese pot roast that is cooked in the slow cooker for maximum flavor and tenderness. Made with beef, red wine, garlic, and bay leaves, this dish is packed with bold flavors that will have your taste buds singing.
To make this dish, start by searing the beef on all sides in a hot pan. Then transfer it to the slow cooker and top it with a flavorful sauce made with tomato paste, beef broth, and herbs.
Let the meat cook low and slow for several hours until it is tender and falling apart. Serve with some mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting and satisfying meal that will transport you to the streets of Portugal.
A twist on the traditional pot roast, this Portuguese version is made with chorizo sausage and red wine for a unique and flavorful dish. Served with potatoes and carrots, this pot roast is a complete meal that is perfect for a chilly evening.
To make this dish, start by browning the chorizo and beef in a large pot. Then add in some onions and garlic and let them cook until fragrant. Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for a few minutes before adding in the vegetables.
Let the pot roast simmer for a few hours until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Serve with a glass of red wine for an authentic Portuguese experience.
4of 40
Azorean Alcatra (Portuguese Beef Pot Stew)
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Beef Chuck Roast, White Wine, Water, Large
This hearty stew is a staple in the Azores, a group of islands off the coast of Portugal. Made with tender beef, red wine, peppers, and potatoes, this dish is a comforting and flavorful meal that will warm you up from the inside out.
To make this dish, start by marinating the beef in a mixture of red wine, garlic, and spices. Then sauté some onions and peppers in a large pot before adding in the beef and marinade.
Let the stew simmer for a few hours until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Serve with some crusty bread for dunking and enjoy a taste of the Azores in your own kitchen.
This traditional Portuguese dish is made with tender beef, white wine, and tomatoes for a flavorful and comforting meal. The beef is marinated in a mixture of garlic, paprika, and bay leaves before being cooked low and slow until it is fall-apart tender.
To make this dish, start by marinating the beef overnight for maximum flavor. Then sauté some onions and garlic in a large pot before adding in the beef and marinade. Let it simmer for a few hours until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Serve with some crusty bread or over rice for a delicious and authentic Portuguese meal.
6of 40
Portuguese Orange Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Oranges, All
This light and fluffy cake is a popular dessert in Portugal, known for its deliciously citrusy flavor and moist texture. Made with orange juice and zest, this cake is bursting with fresh and bright flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
To make this cake, start by mixing together butter, sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy. Then add in the dry ingredients and the orange juice and zest, and mix until well combined.
Bake in the oven until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple and delicious dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
7of 40
Portuguese Chickpea Salad
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Yellow Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic, Fresh
This refreshing salad is a staple in Portuguese cuisine, made with chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. The flavors in this dish are bright and fresh, making it the perfect side dish for any meal.
To make this salad, simply combine all the ingredients in a large bowl and toss with a vinaigrette dressing. Let it sit in the fridge for an hour or two to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
This salad is not only delicious, but it is also packed with nutrients and a great source of plant-based protein. Enjoy it as a light lunch or as a side dish to your favorite Portuguese main course.
This hearty soup is a classic Portuguese dish, made with linguiça sausage, potatoes, and of course, kale. The flavors in this soup are rich and comforting, making it the perfect meal for a cold winter day.
Start by cooking the sausage in a large pot until browned, then add in the onions and garlic and cook until fragrant. Add in the potatoes, chicken broth, and kale and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender.
Serve with some crusty bread for dipping and enjoy a bowl of this delicious and hearty soup that will transport you straight to Portugal.
This simple and flavorful dish is a staple in Portuguese cuisine, made with red beans and linguiça sausage. The flavors in this dish are bold and satisfying, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
To make this dish, simply cook the sausage in a large pot until browned, then add in some onions and garlic and cook until fragrant. Add in the beans and let them cook until heated through and the flavors have melded together.
This dish can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish to your favorite Portuguese meal. Either way, it is sure to be a hit with your taste buds.
This classic Portuguese dessert is a must-try for any food lover. Made with a flaky puff pastry crust and a creamy custard filling, these tarts are a deliciously sweet end to any meal.
To make these tarts, start by rolling out the puff pastry and cutting it into circles to fit your tart pans. Then make the custard by combining milk, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour the custard into the pastry shells and bake until golden brown and set.
Serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra burst of flavor and indulge in a taste of Portugal with every bite.
Main Ingredients: Bone, Italian Seasoning, Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder
This flavorful and juicy roast chicken is inspired by Portuguese flavors and is the perfect dish for a summer barbecue. Marinated in white wine, lemon juice, and herbs, this chicken is bursting with flavor and is sure to be a crowd pleaser.
To make this dish, simply marinate the chicken in a mixture of the ingredients and let it sit for a few hours to absorb all the flavors. Then roast in the oven or on the grill until cooked through and golden brown.
Serve with some grilled vegetables and rice for a complete and satisfying meal that is perfect for any summer gathering.
This simple and delicious dish is a staple in Portuguese cuisine, and for good reason. Made with fresh fish fillets, tomatoes, and olives, this baked fish is a flavorful and healthy meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
To make this dish, simply place the fish fillets in a baking dish and top them with the sliced tomatoes and olives. Bake in the oven until the fish is flaky and the flavors have melded together.
This dish can be served with rice, potatoes, or a salad for a complete and satisfying meal that is full of Mediterranean flavors.
13of 40
Spicy Portuguese Shrimp
Main Ingredients: Large Shallot, Garlic, Olive Oil, Shrimp, White Wine
This dish is a twist on the classic Portuguese shrimp dish, adding some heat and spice to the mix. Made with shrimp, garlic, chili peppers, and tomatoes, this dish is a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
To make this dish, sauté the shrimp in a hot pan and then add in the garlic, chili peppers, and tomatoes. Let everything cook until the shrimp is pink and the flavors have melded together.
Serve over rice or with some crusty bread for dipping and enjoy a taste of Portugal with a kick.
14of 40
Portuguese Style Baked Eggs
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Red Bell Peppers, Onion, Garlic, Crushed Red
This delicious and easy dish is a common breakfast or brunch option in Portugal, and it is sure to become a favorite in your household as well. Made with eggs, tomatoes, onions, and chorizo, this dish is packed with protein and flavor.
To make this dish, simply sauté the onions and chorizo in a pan and then add in the eggs and tomatoes. Let everything cook until the eggs are set and the flavors have melded together.
Enjoy with some crusty bread or toast for a delicious and fulfilling breakfast or brunch option.
Take your Thanksgiving dinner to the next level with this Portuguese-inspired roast turkey. Marinated in a mixture of beer, garlic, and herbs, this turkey is juicy and flavorful, with a crispy skin that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
To make this dish, start by marinating the turkey overnight for maximum flavor. Then roast in the oven until golden brown and cooked through. Serve with your favorite Thanksgiving sides for a Portuguese twist on a classic holiday meal.
16of 40
Portuguese Chicken and Crispy Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Potatoes, Marinade, Ancho Chilies, Smoked
This dish is a popular comfort food in Portugal, made with chicken, potatoes, and olive oil. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of garlic, paprika, and oregano before being roasted in the oven with the potatoes for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
To make this dish, start by marinating the chicken in the spices and olive oil. Then add the potatoes to the same pan and roast everything together until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are crispy.
Serve with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables for a delicious and well-balanced meal.
This dish is a popular seafood option in Portugal, made with shrimp and a flavorful sauce made with beer, tomatoes, and spices. The shrimp is cooked in the sauce until pink and tender, and then served over rice or with some crusty bread for dipping.
To make this dish, start by sautéing some onions and garlic in a pan before adding in the shrimp and the sauce ingredients. Let everything simmer until the shrimp is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
This dish is perfect for a dinner party or a special occasion, and is sure to impress your guests with its bold and delicious flavors.
18of 40
Peri-peri Chicken, the Spicy Portuguese Chicken
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chili, Garlic, Lemon, Paprika, Bay Leaf
This spicy and flavorful chicken dish is a staple in Portuguese cuisine, and it is sure to become a favorite in your household as well. Made with peri-peri sauce, garlic, and herbs, this chicken is bursting with heat and flavor.
To make this dish, simply marinate the chicken in the peri-peri sauce for a few hours before grilling or roasting it. Serve with some grilled vegetables and rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
If you prefer a milder version, simply use less peri-peri sauce in the marinade. Either way, this dish is sure to be a hit with your taste buds.
19of 40
Portuguese Rolls – Papo Secos
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Warm
These delicious and airy rolls are a staple in Portuguese cuisine, and they are perfect for dipping in soups, stews, or sauces. Made with flour, yeast, and milk, these rolls are easy to make and are a delicious addition to any meal.
Start by mixing together the ingredients and letting the dough rise before shaping it into rolls and baking them in the oven. Serve warm with some butter for a simple and satisfying accompaniment to any Portuguese meal.
20of 40
Portuguese Style Parisienne Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Olive Oil, Garlic Salt, Paprika, Dried
These crispy and flavorful potatoes are a popular side dish in Portugal, and they are sure to become a favorite in your household as well. Made with potatoes, olive oil, and garlic, these potatoes are a delicious and easy addition to any meal.
To make these potatoes, simply toss them in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs, and then roast them in the oven until crispy and golden brown. Serve as a side dish to your favorite Portuguese main course for a complete and satisfying meal.
This traditional Portuguese dish is a must-try for seafood lovers. Made with a variety of fresh fish, onions, garlic, and tomatoes, this hearty stew is full of flavor and perfect for a chilly evening. The secret to a delicious Portuguese fish stew is using bacalhau, a dried and salted cod, but you can also use any white fish of your choice. Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious broth.
22of 40
Alcatra - Portuguese Pot Roast in the Slow Cooker
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Large Onion, Bay Leaves, Allspice Berries
For a comforting and easy meal, try making Alcatra, a traditional Portuguese pot roast, in your slow cooker. This dish is typically made with beef, but you can also use pork or chicken. The meat is marinated in red wine, garlic, and spices for added flavor, and then slow-cooked until tender and falling apart. Serve with a side of arroz de tomate, or tomato rice, for a complete and satisfying meal.
23of 40
Azorean Alcatra (Portuguese Beef Pot Stew)
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Beef Chuck Roast, White Wine, Water, Large
If you're looking for a hearty and filling dish, try making Azorean Alcatra, a Portuguese beef pot stew. This dish is popular in the Azores, a group of islands off the coast of Portugal, and is made with beef, onions, bacon, and spices. The unique addition of linguiça, a smoked Portuguese sausage, adds an extra layer of flavor to this delicious stew. Serve over a bed of arroz branco, or white rice, for a complete and satisfying meal.
Caçoila, or Portuguese stewed beef, is a simple and comforting dish that is perfect for a family meal. This dish is made with beef, onions, garlic, and red wine, and is slow-cooked until the meat is tender and flavorful. The addition of chouriço, a spicy Portuguese sausage, adds an extra kick to this dish. Serve with a side of batatas fritas, or French fries, for a classic Portuguese meal.
25of 40
Portuguese Orange Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Oranges, All
No Portuguese meal is complete without dessert, and Portuguese orange cake is a must-try for any sweet tooth. This moist and flavorful cake is made with fresh orange juice and zest, giving it a bright and refreshing flavor. The addition of rum adds a subtle kick, making this cake a hit at any gathering. Serve with a scoop of gelado de baunilha, or vanilla ice cream, for a delicious and indulgent treat.
26of 40
Portuguese Chickpea Salad
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Yellow Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic, Fresh
This simple and healthy salad is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. Made with chickpeas, onions, tomatoes, and peppers, this salad is packed with flavor and nutrients. The addition of sardines adds a unique twist to this dish, but you can also use tuna or leave out the fish entirely for a vegetarian option. Serve with a side of crusty bread for a light and refreshing meal.
Kale soup, or caldo verde, is a classic Portuguese dish that is perfect for a cold day. Made with kale, potatoes, and sausage, this soup is hearty and full of flavor. The key to a delicious kale soup is using linguiça, a smoked Portuguese sausage, for added depth of flavor. Serve with a side of broa, a traditional Portuguese cornbread, for a complete meal.
Beans are a staple in Portuguese cuisine, and this dish is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Made with beans, onions, garlic, and spices, this dish is packed with flavor and can be made with any type of beans you have on hand. The addition of linguiça adds a smoky and spicy kick, making this dish a favorite among Portuguese families.
Portuguese egg tarts, or pasteis de nata, are a beloved treat in Portugal and can now be found in bakeries all over the world. These flaky and creamy custard tarts are made with a buttery pastry crust and a rich egg custard filling. The key to a perfect Portuguese egg tart is using pasteis de nata molds, but you can also use a muffin tin to achieve the same result. Serve with a sprinkle of canela, or cinnamon, for an extra burst of flavor.
30of 40
Spicy Portuguese Shrimp
Main Ingredients: Large Shallot, Garlic, Olive Oil, Shrimp, White Wine
For a quick and easy weeknight meal, try making spicy Portuguese shrimp. This dish is made with shrimp, onions, garlic, and spices, and can be on the table in less than 30 minutes. The addition of piri-piri sauce, a spicy Portuguese chili sauce, gives this dish a fiery kick. Serve with a side of rice and vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
For a lighter and healthier option, try making Portuguese baked fish. This dish is made with any white fish of your choice, topped with a flavorful mixture of onions, garlic, and tomatoes, and baked until tender. The addition of azeite, or olive oil, gives this dish an extra burst of flavor. Serve with a side of arroz de tomate for a delicious and well-rounded meal.
32of 40
Peri-peri Chicken, the Spicy Portuguese Chicken
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chili, Garlic, Lemon, Paprika, Bay Leaf
Peri-peri chicken is a popular dish in Portugal that has gained popularity all over the world. This dish is made with chicken marinated in a spicy peri-peri sauce, made from African bird's eye chili peppers, garlic, and herbs. The chicken is then grilled or roasted until tender and served with a side of arroz de tomate and batatas fritas for a complete and flavorful meal.
33of 40
Portuguese Style Baked Eggs
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Red Bell Peppers, Onion, Garlic, Crushed Red
If you're looking for a unique and delicious breakfast option, try making Portuguese style baked eggs. This dish is made with eggs, onions, tomatoes, and spices, and is baked until the eggs are perfectly cooked. The addition of chouriço adds a smokey and spicy flavor to this dish, making it perfect for any time of day. Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping in the runny yolk.
34of 40
Portuguese Chicken and Crispy Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Potatoes, Marinade, Ancho Chilies, Smoked
This one-pan meal is a favorite among Portuguese families. Chicken thighs are marinated in a flavorful mixture of garlic, paprika, and herbs, and then roasted in the oven along with crispy potatoes. The result is a tender and juicy chicken with perfectly crispy potatoes that are sure to be a hit with the whole family. Serve with a side of salada mista, or mixed salad, for a well-rounded meal.
Shrimp Mozambique, or camarão à moçambique, is a popular dish in Portugal that is perfect for entertaining. This dish is made with shrimp cooked in a spicy tomato and beer sauce, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. The addition of piri-piri sauce adds an extra kick to this dish, making it perfect for spicy food lovers. Serve with a side of arroz branco for a complete and satisfying meal.
36of 40
Portuguese Rolls – Papo Secos
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Warm
Papo Secos, or Portuguese rolls, are a staple in Portuguese cuisine. These soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or just for dipping in soup or stew. The secret to a delicious Papo Seco is using sweetened condensed milk in the dough, which gives it a slightly sweet and rich flavor. Serve warm with a spread of butter for a simple and delicious snack.
37of 40
Portuguese Style Parisienne Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Olive Oil, Garlic Salt, Paprika, Dried
Parisienne potatoes are a classic French side dish, but the Portuguese have their own version that is equally delicious. These small potatoes are roasted in the oven with olive oil, garlic, and herbs until crispy and golden brown. The addition of linguiça, or bacon, adds a savory and smoky flavor to these potatoes, making them the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
38of 40
French toast (Portuguese style)
Main Ingredients: Bread, Milk, Eggs, Sugar, Cinnamon, Vegetable Oil
For a unique and delicious twist on traditional French toast, try making it Portuguese style. This dish is made with thick slices of bolo do caco, a traditional Portuguese sweet bread, soaked in a mixture of eggs, milk, and cinnamon, and then fried until golden brown. Serve with a drizzle of mel, or honey, for a sweet and indulgent breakfast.
39of 40
Portuguese Daisy
Main Ingredients: Port Wine, Brandy, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Grenadine
The Portuguese Daisy cocktail is a refreshing and fruity drink that is perfect for a warm summer day. Made with port wine, peach schnapps, and orange juice, this cocktail is light and easy to drink. The addition of grenadine gives it a beautiful red color, making it a perfect drink for any occasion.
40of 40
Portuguese Grilled Pork Ribs
Main Ingredients: Pork Rib, White Wine, Garlic, Fresh Thyme, Olive Oil
For a delicious and flavorful main dish, try making Portuguese grilled pork ribs. These ribs are marinated in a mixture of garlic, paprika, and herbs, and then grilled until tender and juicy. The addition of piri-piri sauce adds a spicy kick to these ribs, making them a hit at any barbecue or gathering. Serve with a side of arroz de tomate and a cold beer for the perfect Portuguese meal.
The History of Alcatra
The Origins
The alcatra recipe has been passed down through generations in the Azores islands, dating back to the 15th century. It was traditionally a dish prepared for special occasions, such as weddings or religious feasts. The dish was primarily made with beef, as the Azores were a cattle-raising region. However, over time, the recipe has evolved, and different variations of alcatra can now be found, including pork and chicken versions.
The Influence of Portuguese Colonization
In the 15th and 16th centuries, Portuguese explorers brought this dish to Brazil and other parts of their colonies, where it gained popularity. The dish was adapted to incorporate locally available ingredients, such as beans and cassava, resulting in a fusion of flavors and making it a staple in Brazilian cuisine as well.
The Ingredients
Beef is the star of this dish, and the cut used is typically a boneless chuck roast or beef shank. The meat is marinated in a mixture of red wine, garlic, and bay leaves, which gives it its distinct flavor. Other key ingredients include onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers, which add a depth of flavor to the dish.
The Importance of the Potatoes
Potatoes play a crucial role in this recipe. Traditionally, the potatoes are cooked in the same pot as the alcatra, absorbing all the flavors and juices from the meat. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth potato that is bursting with flavor. You can also serve the dish with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
The Cooking Process
To make alcatra, the meat is first marinated for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to infuse. Then, the meat is seared in a pot and cooked slowly with the marinade, vegetables, and potatoes. The dish is typically cooked in an earthenware pot, but any oven-safe pot or Dutch oven will work just fine. The slow cooking process results in a tender and flavorful meat that falls apart with a fork.
Final Thoughts
Alcatra is a dish that truly embodies the rich and diverse culture of Portugal. It's a dish that brings people together and celebrates the flavors of the region. So the next time you're craving a hearty and delicious meal, why not try your hand at making alcatra? Your taste buds will thank you.
![How to Make easy Caldo Verde Recipe [Sausage kale soup] | Kitchen Dreaming](https://kitchendreaming.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Portuguese-Sausage-and-Kale-Soup-Caldo-Verde-Recipe-3.jpg)
