15 Portuguese Chili Paste Recipe You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 8, 2024
Portuguese cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of spices, and one ingredient that stands out is the iconic chili paste. This fiery condiment is a staple in many Portuguese households and is used in a variety of dishes, from stews and soups to marinades and dips. Making your own portuguese chili paste is not only simple, but it also allows you to customize the level of heat and flavor to your liking. In this article, we'll take a closer look at this traditional recipe and how you can recreate it at home.
Portuguese fish stew, also known as caldeirada de peixe, is a savory and comforting dish that is popular in coastal regions of Portugal. Made with a variety of fish such as cod, hake, and monkfish, this stew is rich in flavor and hearty enough to satisfy any seafood lover's cravings. The key to a good Portuguese fish stew is using fresh, high-quality fish and a combination of herbs and spices to create a delicious broth. Serve it with crusty bread for the ultimate dining experience.
Caçoila, also known as Portuguese stewed beef, is a traditional dish hailing from the Azores region of Portugal. It is made with tender chunks of beef, marinated in a flavorful mixture of wine, garlic, and spices, and then slow-cooked until the meat is melt-in-your-mouth tender. The addition of potatoes and carrots makes this dish a complete meal that is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Serve it with a side of rice and enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of Portugal.
3of 20
Portuguese Orange Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Oranges, All
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a slice of delicious Portuguese orange cake. This moist and flavorful cake is made with fresh orange juice and zest, giving it a bright and citrusy flavor. It is often served as a dessert or as an accompaniment to afternoon tea. The best part? It's easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. Serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.
4of 20
Portuguese Chickpea Salad
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Yellow Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic, Fresh
This healthy and filling Portuguese chickpea salad is a popular side dish in Portugal. Made with a combination of chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, and parsley, it is light and refreshing, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal. The addition of olive oil and vinegar adds a tangy and flavorful element to the salad. Serve it as a side dish or add some grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Kale soup, also known as caldo verde, is a hearty and comforting dish that is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. Made with potatoes, kale, and slices of chorizo sausage, this soup is packed with flavor and nutrients. The key to a good Portuguese kale soup is to use high-quality ingredients, especially the chorizo, which adds a smoky and spicy kick to the soup. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
This flavorful and satisfying dish is a popular choice for a hearty lunch or dinner in Portugal. Made with white beans, linguiça sausage, and a variety of vegetables, it is a one-pot meal that is easy to make and perfect for a busy weeknight. The use of linguiça, a Portuguese smoked sausage, adds a unique and delicious flavor to the dish. Warm up with a bowl of Portuguese beans and linguiça on a chilly day.
7of 20
Amped-Up Portuguese Red Pepper Paste
Main Ingredients: Sweet Paprika, Smoked Paprika, Dry Red Wine, Garlic
Red pepper paste, also known as massa de pimentão, is a staple ingredient in Portuguese cuisine. Made with red bell peppers, garlic, and olive oil, it adds a delicious and slightly spicy flavor to dishes. This amped-up version of the traditional red pepper paste includes the addition of red wine, honey, and smoked paprika, making it even more flavorful and versatile. Use it as a marinade, spread, or dip to add a taste of Portugal to your meals.
Portuguese egg tarts, also known as pastéis de nata, are a popular dessert in Portugal. These flaky and creamy pastries are filled with a sweet and custardy egg filling and are often dusted with cinnamon or powdered sugar. They are best eaten warm with a cup of coffee or tea. Though they may seem intimidating to make, with a little practice, you can recreate these delicious tarts at home.
9of 20
Spicy Portuguese Shrimp
Main Ingredients: Large Shallot, Garlic, Olive Oil, Shrimp, White Wine
Get your taste buds ready for a burst of flavor with this spicy and delicious Portuguese shrimp dish. Made with shrimp, garlic, chili peppers, and a variety of herbs and spices, it is a must-try for seafood lovers. The dish gets its heat from the addition of piri-piri sauce, a spicy Portuguese condiment made from chili peppers. Serve it with rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Looking for a simple and healthy way to prepare fish? Try this easy and flavorful Portuguese baked fish recipe. Made with fresh fish fillets, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of herbs and spices, it is a delicious and nutritious meal that can be on the table in under an hour. The addition of white wine adds a tangy and aromatic element to the dish. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for a well-balanced meal.
11of 20
Peri-peri Chicken, the Spicy Portuguese Chicken
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chili, Garlic, Lemon, Paprika, Bay Leaf
Peri-peri chicken, also known as piri-piri chicken, is a popular dish in Portugal and other African countries. Made with chicken marinated in a spicy mixture of chili peppers, garlic, and herbs, this dish is known for its intense and fiery flavors. The chicken is then grilled or roasted until tender and served with a side of rice or potatoes. If you love spicy food, this dish is a must-try.
12of 20
Portuguese Style Baked Eggs
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Red Bell Peppers, Onion, Garlic, Crushed Red
In Portugal, baked eggs, or ovos assados, are often served as a breakfast or brunch dish. Made with eggs, tomatoes, onions, and herbs, they are a simple yet delicious way to start your day. The addition of cheese adds a creamy and savory element to the dish. Serve it with crusty bread for a filling and satisfying meal.
13of 20
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 crusty rolls are perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or as a side to a meal. The key to a good papo seco is the use of high-quality flour, which gives the rolls their light and airy texture. Serve them warm with a spread of butter or cheese for a delicious and versatile addition to any meal.
14of 20
Portuguese Chicken and Crispy Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Potatoes, Marinade, Ancho Chilies, Smoked
This flavorful and hearty dish is a favorite in Portugal. Made with chicken marinated in a mixture of spices and herbs and served with crispy potatoes, it is a complete meal that is perfect for a family dinner. The secret to achieving perfectly crispy potatoes is to parboil them before roasting. The result? Tender and flavorful chicken and crispy and delicious potatoes that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Shrimp Mozambique, also known as camarão à mozambique, is a popular seafood dish in Portugal. Made with shrimp, garlic, beer, and spicy piri-piri sauce, it is a flavorful and zingy dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a dinner party. The addition of beer adds a unique and delicious element to the dish, which is often served with rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
16of 20
Portuguese Style Parisienne Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Olive Oil, Garlic Salt, Paprika, Dried
Parisienne potatoes, also known as Portuguese potatoes, are a popular side dish in Portugal. Made with small, round potatoes, garlic, and herbs, these buttery and flavorful potatoes are easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The key to achieving a crispy and golden exterior is to parboil the potatoes before roasting them in the oven. Serve them with your favorite protein for a complete and delicious meal.
17of 20
French toast (Portuguese style)
Main Ingredients: Bread, Milk, Eggs, Sugar, Cinnamon, Vegetable Oil
Put a Portuguese twist on a classic breakfast dish with this delicious and indulgent French toast recipe. Made with thick slices of bread, soaked in a mixture of milk, eggs, and spices, and then fried until golden and crispy, this dish is perfect for a lazy weekend morning. The addition of cinnamon and powdered sugar adds a sweet and aromatic element to the dish. Serve it with fresh fruit and a drizzle of maple syrup for a decadent breakfast treat.
18of 20
Portuguese Grilled Pork Ribs
Main Ingredients: Pork Rib, White Wine, Garlic, Fresh Thyme, Olive Oil
These finger-licking Portuguese grilled pork ribs are a popular choice for summer barbecues and outdoor gatherings. Made with a flavorful marinade of garlic, paprika, and olive oil, these ribs are grilled to perfection and served with a side of rice or potatoes. The key to achieving tender and juicy ribs is to marinate them for at least 8 hours before grilling. Serve them with a cold beer for the ultimate summer dining experience.
These delicious and creamy Portuguese egg tarts are a must-try for any dessert lover. Made with a flaky pastry crust and a rich and custardy egg filling, these tarts are popular in Portugal and other parts of Asia. The addition of a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar on top adds a sweet and aromatic touch. Serve them warm for the ultimate indulgence.
20of 20
Nando’s Portuguese Spicy Rice
Main Ingredients: Rice, Water, Frozen Peas, Bell Pepper, Onion, Garlic
Nando's is a popular restaurant chain known for its flavorful and spicy Portuguese-style chicken. But did you know they also have a delicious spicy rice recipe? Made with long-grain rice, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of herbs and spices, this rice dish is the perfect side for any meal. The addition of chili peppers adds a fiery and delicious kick to the dish. Serve it with a side of grilled chicken or fish for a complete and flavorful meal.
Gathering the Ingredients
To make portuguese chili paste, you'll need just a few simple ingredients that are readily available in most grocery stores. The key ingredient, of course, is chili peppers. While any variety of chili pepper can be used, traditional Portuguese recipes call for piri piri peppers, also known as African bird's eye peppers. These small, red peppers pack a punch of heat and are essential for an authentic flavor. You'll also need garlic, olive oil, and sea salt. Some recipes may also call for additional spices such as paprika, cumin, or oregano.
Preparation and Cooking
To begin, start by washing and drying the chili peppers. Remove the stems and chop them into smaller pieces. Next, peel and chop the garlic cloves. In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped garlic. Cook for a few minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add in the chopped chili peppers and stir to combine. Let the mixture cook for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers begin to soften.
Once the peppers have softened, remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and add in a pinch of sea salt. Blend until you reach your desired consistency. For a smoother paste, blend for longer, and for a chunkier paste, blend for a shorter amount of time. If desired, you can also add in additional spices at this point for extra flavor.
Storing and Serving
Once your portuguese chili paste is blended to your liking, transfer it to a clean jar or container. This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month, or it can be frozen for longer shelf life. This versatile condiment can be used in a variety of dishes, from marinating meats to adding a kick of heat to soups and stews. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for bread or as a spread on sandwiches. Get creative and experiment with different ways to incorporate this portuguese staple into your meals.