16+ Newsday 2019 Easter Recipe Portuguese Bread Experience Flavor Like Never Before!
Published on: Mar 15, 2024
Easter is a time of celebration and tradition, and one of the most beloved traditions in Portugal is the baking of Portuguese bread. This delicious bread is a staple at Easter dinner tables across the country, and for good reason. The combination of crusty exterior and soft, fluffy interior makes it the perfect accompaniment to any meal. But what exactly makes Portuguese bread so special? Let's take a closer look.
This traditional Portuguese dish is a must-try for seafood lovers. Made with a variety of fresh fish, tomatoes, and a variety of herbs and spices, this stew is bursting with flavor. The secret ingredient is the pimenton, a spicy smoked paprika that gives the stew its signature smoky and spicy taste. Serve with crusty bread for a hearty and satisfying meal.
This slow-cooked beef stew is a staple in Portuguese households. Tender chunks of beef are simmered in a rich and flavorful sauce made with tomatoes, wine, and a variety of herbs and spices. The dish gets its unique flavor from the piri-piri peppers, giving it a subtle kick. Serve over rice or with crusty bread for a comforting and delicious meal.
3of 40
Broa - The Portuguese Bread
Main Ingredients: Yellow Cornmeal, All Purpose Flour, Milk, Hot Water
This rustic cornbread is a staple in Portuguese cuisine and is often served with meals or used as a base for sandwiches. Made with cornmeal, wheat flour, and a touch of sugar, this bread has a hearty and slightly sweet taste. It pairs perfectly with soups, stews, or even just a slather of butter.
4of 40
Portuguese Orange Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Oranges, All
This moist and flavorful cake is a popular dessert in Portugal. Made with fresh oranges and a touch of olive oil, it has a unique and delicious taste. The cake is typically served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream for a perfect finish to any meal.
5of 40
Portuguese Chickpea Salad
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Yellow Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic, Fresh
This light and refreshing salad is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. Made with chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing, it is packed with flavor and nutrients. It is the perfect side dish for any meal or can be enjoyed as a light lunch on its own.
Also known as caldo verde, this hearty soup is a comfort food for many Portuguese families. Made with kale, potatoes, and chorizo, it is a delicious and filling meal. The soup is often served with a side of crusty bread for dipping and sopping up all the delicious flavors.
This traditional dish is a staple in many Portuguese households. Made with kidney beans, linguiça sausage, and a variety of herbs and spices, it is a flavorful and satisfying meal. It is often served with rice or as a side dish to accompany a main course.
8of 40
Portuguese Bread and Garlic Soup with Cilantro and...
Main Ingredients: Cilantro Leaves, Garlic, Serrano Peppers, Kosher Salt
This simple yet delicious soup is a popular dish in Portugal. Made with stale bread, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices, it is a budget-friendly and hearty meal. The soup is typically topped with cilantro and a poached egg for added flavor and protein.
This traditional sweet bread is a classic in Portuguese cuisine and is often served during holidays and special occasions. Made with flour, sugar, milk, and eggs, it has a soft and slightly sweet taste. It is best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.
This delicious dessert is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. It is made with a flaky pastry crust and a rich and creamy custard filling. The tarts are typically dusted with cinnamon and sugar for added flavor and are a popular treat in Portugal.
This simple and rustic bread is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. Made with cornmeal, wheat flour, and a touch of sugar, it has a hearty and slightly sweet taste. It is a delicious accompaniment to soups, stews, or can be enjoyed on its own with a bit of butter.
12of 40
Spicy Portuguese Shrimp
Main Ingredients: Large Shallot, Garlic, Olive Oil, Shrimp, White Wine
This flavorful dish is a favorite among seafood lovers. The shrimp is sautéed with garlic, onions, and a variety of spices, including pimenton, giving it a spicy and smoky taste. It is typically served over rice or with crusty bread for a satisfying and delicious meal.
This simple yet delicious dish is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. Fresh fish is baked in a flavorful sauce made with tomatoes, onions, and a variety of herbs and spices. The dish is typically served with a side of rice and a salad for a well-rounded meal.
14of 40
Portuguese Style Baked Eggs
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Red Bell Peppers, Onion, Garlic, Crushed Red
This easy and flavorful breakfast dish is perfect for a lazy weekend morning. Eggs are baked in a tomato-based sauce flavored with onions, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices. It is typically served with crusty bread for dipping and enjoying all the delicious flavors.
15of 40
Peri-peri Chicken, the Spicy Portuguese Chicken
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chili, Garlic, Lemon, Paprika, Bay Leaf
This popular dish is a must-try for anyone who loves spicy food. The chicken is marinated in a spicy peri-peri sauce and then grilled or roasted to perfection. It is typically served with a variety of side dishes, such as rice, potatoes, or vegetables.
16of 40
Portuguese Chicken and Crispy Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Potatoes, Marinade, Ancho Chilies, Smoked
This delicious and comforting dish is a favorite among Portuguese families. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful sauce and then baked on top of crispy potatoes for a perfect combination of textures and flavors. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to please.
This flavorful dish originated in Mozambique but has become a favorite in Portugal. Shrimp is cooked in a spicy and tangy sauce made with tomatoes, beer, and a variety of herbs and spices. It is often served over rice or with crusty bread for a delicious and satisfying meal.
18of 40
Portuguese Rolls – Papo Secos
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Warm
These soft and fluffy rolls are a staple in Portuguese cuisine and are often served with meals or used as a base for sandwiches. Made with flour, yeast, and a touch of sugar, they are the perfect accompaniment to soups, stews, or can be enjoyed on their own with a bit of butter.
19of 40
Portuguese Style Parisienne Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Olive Oil, Garlic Salt, Paprika, Dried
This delicious side dish is a must-try for potato lovers. The potatoes are cooked in a flavorful sauce made with onions, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices. It is a simple yet delicious dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
20of 40
French toast (Portuguese style)
Main Ingredients: Bread, Milk, Eggs, Sugar, Cinnamon, Vegetable Oil
This unique and flavorful take on French toast is a popular breakfast dish in Portugal. The bread is dipped in a mixture of milk, eggs, and a touch of sugar and then cooked until golden brown. It is typically served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of fresh fruit for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Indulge in the flavorful and rich Portuguese Fish Stew, also known as Caldeirada. This traditional dish uses a variety of fresh seafood, such as cod, shrimp, and clams, cooked in a tomato-based broth flavored with herbs and spices. Serve it with crusty bread for a truly authentic experience.
Caçoila is a popular Portuguese dish made with tender chunks of beef, slow-cooked in a rich and savory sauce made with red wine, tomatoes, and spices. This hearty and comforting stew is perfect for cold winter nights or any time you're craving a delicious and filling meal.
23of 40
Broa - The Portuguese Bread
Main Ingredients: Yellow Cornmeal, All Purpose Flour, Milk, Hot Water
Broa, also known as Portuguese corn bread, is a staple in traditional Portuguese cuisine. This rustic bread is made with a combination of cornmeal and wheat flour, giving it a unique texture and flavor. It's perfect for dipping in soups and stews or enjoyed on its own with a slice of butter.
24of 40
Portuguese Orange Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Oranges, All
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this Portuguese Orange Cake. This moist and citrusy cake is made with fresh orange juice and zest, giving it a bright and refreshing flavor. It's a popular dessert in Portugal and is often served with a dusting of powdered sugar on top.
25of 40
Portuguese Chickpea Salad
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Yellow Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic, Fresh
For a quick and easy side dish, try this Portuguese Chickpea Salad. Made with canned chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and tossed in a simple vinaigrette, this salad is packed with flavor and nutrients. It's the perfect addition to any meal and can be easily customized to your taste.
Kale lovers will enjoy this Portuguese Kale Soup, also known as Caldo Verde. This hearty soup is made with potatoes, kale, and linguica sausage, simmered in a flavorful broth. It's a popular dish in Portugal and is often served at celebrations and gatherings.
Portuguese Beans with Linguiça is a simple and comforting dish that is popular in Portuguese households. This dish features linguiça, a smoked Portuguese sausage, cooked with beans in a rich and flavorful sauce. Serve it over rice for a filling and satisfying meal.
28of 40
Portuguese Bread and Garlic Soup with Cilantro and...
Main Ingredients: Cilantro Leaves, Garlic, Serrano Peppers, Kosher Salt
This unique and delicious Portuguese Bread and Garlic Soup is a popular dish in the Alentejo region of Portugal. Made with stale bread, garlic, and cilantro, this soup is easy to make and is perfect for using up leftover bread. Traditionally, a poached egg is added to each bowl for extra richness and flavor.
Grandma's Portuguese Sweet Bread is a beloved family recipe that has been passed down for generations. This soft and slightly sweet bread is made with eggs, milk, and butter, giving it a rich and tender texture. It's perfect for breakfast or as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
One of the most iconic Portuguese desserts is the Portuguese Egg Tart, also known as Pastel de Nata. These delicious and custardy tarts are made with a flaky pastry crust and a creamy filling made with egg yolks, sugar, and cream. They are a must-try for any dessert lover.
Another version of Broa is this Portuguese Corn Bread, which is made with only corn flour and water. This bread has a dense and hearty texture and is often served alongside meals or as a snack with cheese and fruit.
This simple and flavorful Portuguese Baked Fish is a popular dish in coastal regions of Portugal. Fresh fish fillets are seasoned with herbs and spices, then baked with potatoes and onions for a delicious and healthy meal. Serve it with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of flavor.
33of 40
Spicy Portuguese Shrimp
Main Ingredients: Large Shallot, Garlic, Olive Oil, Shrimp, White Wine
Spicy Portuguese Shrimp is a delicious and easy dish that can be served as an appetizer or a main course. The shrimp is marinated in a spicy and tangy sauce made with olive oil, garlic, and piri-piri sauce, then grilled to perfection. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
34of 40
Portuguese Style Baked Eggs
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Red Bell Peppers, Onion, Garlic, Crushed Red
This Portuguese Style Baked Eggs dish is a popular breakfast or brunch option in Portugal. Eggs are baked in a flavorful tomato and vegetable sauce, then topped with cheese and herbs. It's a delicious and filling way to start your day.
35of 40
Portuguese Chicken and Crispy Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Potatoes, Marinade, Ancho Chilies, Smoked
For a hearty and comforting meal, try this Portuguese Chicken and Crispy Potatoes recipe. Chicken is marinated in a flavorful mixture of herbs and spices, then roasted with crispy potatoes for a delicious and satisfying dish. It's perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping for the week.
Portuguese Shrimp Mozambique is a popular dish in Portuguese restaurants around the world. This spicy and flavorful dish features shrimp cooked in a sauce made with beer, garlic, and piri-piri sauce. Serve it with rice or crusty bread for a delicious and filling meal.
37of 40
Peri-peri Chicken, the Spicy Portuguese Chicken
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chili, Garlic, Lemon, Paprika, Bay Leaf
This Peri-peri Chicken, also known as Frango Assado, is a mouthwatering and spicy dish that is popular in Portuguese cuisine. Chicken is marinated in a spicy sauce made with peri-peri peppers, then grilled to perfection. Serve it with a side of Broa for a truly authentic experience.
38of 40
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 bakeries and households. These soft and slightly sweet rolls are perfect for making sandwiches or enjoyed on their own with a spread of butter. They are a must-try for anyone looking to experience traditional Portuguese cuisine.
39of 40
Portuguese Style Parisienne Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Olive Oil, Garlic Salt, Paprika, Dried
Portuguese Style Parisienne Potatoes are a delicious and unique twist on the classic French dish. These small and round potatoes are cooked in a flavorful sauce made with onions, garlic, and herbs, then topped with chorizo for an extra burst of flavor. They are perfect as a side dish or as a main course for vegetarians.
40of 40
French toast (Portuguese style)
Main Ingredients: Bread, Milk, Eggs, Sugar, Cinnamon, Vegetable Oil
End your meal on a sweet note with this French toast (Portuguese style). Made with slices of Broa, eggs, milk, and spices, this hearty and comforting dish is perfect for breakfast or as a dessert. Serve it with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
The History of Portuguese Bread
The Origins of the Recipe
Portuguese bread, also known as "pão caseiro," has been a staple in Portuguese cuisine for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the Catholic Church's influence in Portugal, where bread was a symbol of the body of Christ in the Eucharist. As a result, bread became an important part of Portuguese culture and was often served at religious holidays, including Easter.
A Labor of Love
The process of making Portuguese bread is a labor of love. Traditionally, it involves a long fermentation process, resulting in a rich and complex flavor. This process requires patience and dedication, as the dough must be left to rise for several hours before it is ready to be baked. However, the end result is well worth the wait, as the bread is full of flavor and has a distinct texture that sets it apart from other types of bread.
The Ingredients
Flour and Water
The main ingredients in Portuguese bread are flour and water, making it a simple yet delicious recipe. However, the type of flour used is what gives the bread its unique flavor and texture. Traditionally, Portuguese bread is made with wheat flour, but some recipes also call for rye or cornmeal flour, which adds a subtle nutty flavor to the bread.
Yeast and Salt
Yeast and salt are also crucial components in making Portuguese bread. The yeast helps the dough rise and gives the bread its light and airy texture, while the salt enhances the flavor and helps to develop a crispy crust.
The Secret Ingredient: Love
While not a tangible ingredient, love is an essential component in making Portuguese bread. This bread is often made by hand, with each step done with care and attention. This love and dedication add an extra layer of flavor to the bread, making it truly special.
How to Enjoy Portuguese Bread
As a Side Dish
Portuguese bread is best enjoyed as a side dish to a main meal. It pairs perfectly with hearty stews, soups, and grilled meats. Its crusty exterior and soft interior make it ideal for soaking up sauces and gravies.
As a Snack
Portuguese bread is also delicious as a snack. It can be sliced and topped with butter, jam, or cheese for a quick and satisfying treat. It's also a popular choice for making sandwiches, with its sturdy texture making it a great option for holding fillings.
As a Tradition
For many Portuguese families, baking Portuguese bread is a cherished tradition passed down through generations. Making this bread together as a family is a way to bond and celebrate their cultural heritage. So, this Easter, why not start your own tradition and bake some delicious Portuguese bread with your loved ones?
In conclusion, Portuguese bread is more than just a recipe – it's a symbol of tradition, love, and celebration. Its rich history and unique ingredients make it a standout dish at any Easter dinner table. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of making this delicious bread as a family.