Malasadas are a delicious Portuguese treat that have become a beloved dessert in Hawaii and around the world. These fluffy, deep-fried doughnuts are typically coated in sugar and filled with various sweet fillings such as custard or chocolate. While they may seem daunting to make at home, this easy malasadas recipe will have you whipping up these tasty treats in no time.
One of the most beloved dishes in Portuguese cuisine is their fish stew, known as caldeirada. This hearty and flavorful dish is made with different types of fish, such as cod, hake, and monkfish, along with vegetables like potatoes, onions, and tomatoes. The secret to this dish is the use of pimentón, a type of smoked paprika that gives it a unique smoky flavor. Serve this with some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious broth.
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Filhos – Malasadas – Portuguese Fried Dough
Main Ingredients: Flour, Sugar, Salt, Eggs, Butter, Lemon Zest, Milk
For a sweet treat, try making filhos, also known as malasadas, a popular Portuguese dessert. These fried dough balls are dusted with sugar and often filled with a creamy custard filling. While they are traditionally enjoyed during the Carnival season, they can be enjoyed any time of the year. Pro tip: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying to ensure a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.
Caçoila, also known as carne de vinha d'alhos, is a traditional Portuguese dish made with stewed beef marinated in wine and garlic. The meat becomes tender and flavorful from the marinade, and it is often served with rice or potatoes. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.
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Portuguese Orange Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Oranges, All
For a refreshing and citrusy dessert, try making a Portuguese orange cake. This cake is made with fresh orange juice and zest, giving it a bright and tangy flavor. It's perfect for a summer barbecue or a potluck party. Pro tip: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra indulgent treat.
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Portuguese Chickpea Salad
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Yellow Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic, Fresh
Chickpeas are a staple in Portuguese cuisine, and this simple and healthy salad is a great way to enjoy them. Tossed with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing, this salad is a delicious side dish or a light lunch option. Pro tip: Add some crumbled feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Kale soup, also known as caldo verde, is a hearty and comforting dish that is enjoyed in Portugal year-round. This soup is made with potatoes, kale, and chorizo sausage, giving it a rich and flavorful broth. Serve with some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Beans and sausage is a classic combination in Portuguese cuisine, and this dish is no exception. Made with white beans, linguiça sausage, tomatoes, and spices, this dish is simple yet full of flavor. It's a great option for a quick and easy weeknight meal, and it's even better the next day for leftovers.
One of the most iconic desserts in Portuguese cuisine is the Portuguese egg tart, also known as pastel de nata. These flaky and creamy tarts are made with a custard filling and a caramelized sugar topping. They are a must-try for any dessert lover and are best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.
This simple and flavorful dish is a staple in Portuguese households. It is made with white fish, such as cod or hake, marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs, and then baked to perfection. Serve with rice or potatoes and a side of vegetables for a well-balanced meal.
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Spicy Portuguese Shrimp
Main Ingredients: Large Shallot, Garlic, Olive Oil, Shrimp, White Wine
For a twist on traditional shrimp dishes, try making this spicy Portuguese shrimp recipe. The shrimp is cooked in a spicy tomato and wine sauce, giving it a bold and tangy flavor. Serve with some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
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Portuguese Style Baked Eggs
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Red Bell Peppers, Onion, Garlic, Crushed Red
This easy and versatile dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Baked eggs, also known as ovos no forno, are cooked in a flavorful tomato and sausage sauce, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. Serve with some crusty bread for dipping and enjoy!
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Portuguese Chicken and Crispy Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Potatoes, Marinade, Ancho Chilies, Smoked
This one-pan meal is a favorite in Portuguese households and for a good reason. Tender and juicy chicken is roasted on top of a bed of crispy potatoes, giving it a delicious and satisfying crunch. Add some fresh herbs and lemon slices for extra flavor and serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
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Peri-peri Chicken, the Spicy Portuguese Chicken
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chili, Garlic, Lemon, Paprika, Bay Leaf
Peri-peri chicken, also known as frango no churrasco, is a popular Portuguese dish that originated from the African country of Mozambique. This spicy and flavorful chicken is marinated in a peri-peri sauce made with hot peppers, spices, and vinegar, giving it a unique and fiery taste. Serve with a side of rice and vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Shrimp Mozambique is a popular dish in the Portuguese community in New England, but its origins can be traced back to the African country of Mozambique. This dish is made with shrimp cooked in a spicy beer and tomato sauce, giving it a bold and tangy flavor. Serve with some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
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Portuguese Rolls – Papo Secos
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Warm
Papo secos, also known as Portuguese rolls, are a staple in Portuguese cuisine. These soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for making sandwiches or dipping into soups and stews. They are easy to make at home and are a must-try for any bread lover.
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Portuguese Style Parisienne Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Olive Oil, Garlic Salt, Paprika, Dried
Parisienne potatoes, also known as batatas à parisienne, are a classic side dish in Portuguese cuisine. These small, round potatoes are cooked in a flavorful sauce made with garlic, spices, and white wine, giving them a unique and delicious taste. Serve as a side dish for any meal, or enjoy them on their own as a snack.
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French toast (Portuguese style)
Main Ingredients: Bread, Milk, Eggs, Sugar, Cinnamon, Vegetable Oil
For a Portuguese twist on a classic breakfast dish, try making French toast, also known as rabanadas, Portuguese style. This dish is made with thick slices of bread dipped in a sweet egg and milk mixture and then fried until golden brown. Serve with some cinnamon and powdered sugar for a delicious and indulgent breakfast treat.
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Portuguese Daisy
Main Ingredients: Port Wine, Brandy, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Grenadine
The Portuguese daisy, also known as margarida, is a popular dessert in Portugal. It is made with layers of crispy puff pastry, creamy custard, and a sweet glaze on top. This dessert is perfect for any special occasion or as a sweet ending to a delicious meal.
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Portuguese Grilled Pork Ribs
Main Ingredients: Pork Rib, White Wine, Garlic, Fresh Thyme, Olive Oil
Portuguese grilled pork ribs, also known as costelinhas de porco grelhadas, are marinated in a flavorful sauce made with garlic, wine, and spices and then grilled to perfection. The result is tender and juicy ribs with a delicious and smoky flavor. Serve with a side of Portuguese beans and rice for a complete meal.
Scallops are a popular seafood in Portuguese cuisine, and this recipe is a delicious and simple way to enjoy them. The scallops are cooked in a garlic and wine sauce and served with a side of rice or crusty bread for soaking up all the delicious flavors. Pro tip: Don't overcook the scallops to ensure they stay tender and juicy.
Ingredients:
Dough:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
Oil for frying
Sugar Coating:
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Custard Filling:
1 cup whole milk
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 large egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Coating
In a shallow bowl, mix together the sugar and ground cinnamon.
Step 3: Make the Custard Filling (Optional)
In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks.
Slowly pour the egg mixture into the hot milk, whisking constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter.
Cover the custard with plastic wrap and let it cool in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Step 4: Fry the Malasadas
Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 375°F.
Using a small cookie scoop, drop rounds of dough into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
Remove the malasadas from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel.
While still warm, roll the malasadas in the sugar coating until fully coated.
Step 5: Fill the Malasadas (Optional)
If making the custard filling, use a piping bag to fill the malasadas with the cooled custard.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
These homemade malasadas are best served warm and fresh. Enjoy them as a sweet treat for breakfast or dessert.
With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create these delectable malasadas in the comfort of your own home. So go ahead and give this easy malasadas recipe a try and impress your friends and family with your baking skills!