17 Portuguese Malasada Recipe Elevate Your Taste Buds!
Published on: Mar 4, 2024
If you're looking for a delicious treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, look no further than the Portuguese malasada. This traditional pastry is a staple in Portuguese cuisine and has gained popularity all over the world. With its fluffy texture and sweet filling, it's no wonder why it has become a beloved dessert for many. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the history of the Portuguese malasada and share a tried and true recipe for you to recreate in your own kitchen.
This hearty and flavorful fish stew is a classic Portuguese dish that is perfect for any occasion. Made with a variety of seafood, including fish, shrimp, and clams, this stew is bursting with bold flavors and rich textures. The secret to a great Portuguese fish stew is the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The result is a delicious and satisfying meal that will please even the pickiest of eaters.
Caçoila, also known as Portuguese stewed beef, is a traditional dish that originated in the Azores islands of Portugal. This dish is made with tender chunks of beef slow-cooked with a variety of spices and seasonings, creating a flavorful and comforting meal. It is typically served over rice or with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.
3of 40
Portuguese Orange Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Oranges, All
This moist and decadent orange cake is a must-try for any dessert lover. Made with freshly squeezed orange juice and zest, this cake has a bright and tangy flavor that is perfectly balanced by the sweet glaze drizzled on top. It is a classic Portuguese dessert that is often served during special occasions and holidays.
4of 40
Portuguese Chickpea Salad
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Yellow Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic, Fresh
This refreshing and nutritious salad is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. Made with chickpeas, tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions, this salad is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is often served as a side dish or as a light lunch option.
Kale soup, also known as Caldo Verde, is a comforting and hearty soup that is a staple in Portuguese households. This soup is made with sliced kale, potatoes, and chunks of chorizo sausage in a flavorful broth. It is a perfect dish for a chilly day and is often served with crusty bread for dipping.
This flavorful and filling dish is a popular meal in Portugal, especially during the colder months. Made with white beans, linguiça sausage, and a variety of vegetables, this dish is a one-pot wonder that is easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Egg tarts are a delicious and indulgent treat that are a must-try for any dessert lover. These tarts are made with a flaky and buttery crust filled with a creamy egg custard filling. They are a popular dessert in Portugal and are often served as a sweet ending to a meal.
8of 40
Spicy Portuguese Shrimp
Main Ingredients: Large Shallot, Garlic, Olive Oil, Shrimp, White Wine
If you love spicy food, then you have to try this mouth-watering dish of Portuguese shrimp. Made with shrimp, garlic, paprika, and chili flakes, this dish packs a punch of flavor and heat. It is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal and pairs well with crusty bread or rice.
This simple and flavorful baked fish dish is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. Made with fresh fish fillets, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, this dish is easy to make and perfect for a healthy and delicious meal. Serve it with a side of rice or vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.
10of 40
Portuguese Style Baked Eggs
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Red Bell Peppers, Onion, Garlic, Crushed Red
Breakfast just got a whole lot more interesting with this Portuguese twist on baked eggs. Made with eggs, tomatoes, onions, and spices, this dish is packed with flavor and protein. It is often served with crusty bread for dipping and is a great way to start your day.
11of 40
Peri-peri Chicken, the Spicy Portuguese Chicken
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chili, Garlic, Lemon, Paprika, Bay Leaf
Peri-peri chicken, also known as Portuguese chicken, is a spicy and flavorful dish that is a must-try for any chicken lover. The chicken is marinated in a spicy peri-peri sauce before being grilled or baked to perfection. It is often served with a side of spicy rice or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
12of 40
Portuguese Chicken and Crispy Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Potatoes, Marinade, Ancho Chilies, Smoked
This mouth-watering dish is a favorite in Portuguese households. Made with chicken thighs, crispy potatoes, and a flavorful sauce, this dish is a great option for a weekend dinner with family and friends. The combination of tender chicken and crispy potatoes is simply irresistible.
Shrimp Mozambique, also known as Portuguese shrimp, is a delicious and spicy dish that is perfect for seafood lovers. The shrimp is cooked in a spicy sauce made with beer, garlic, and chili peppers, resulting in a flavorful and fragrant dish. It is often served with a side of rice or crusty bread.
14of 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 cuisine. These soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for sandwiches or as a side to a meal. They are often made with simple ingredients, such as flour, yeast, and salt, and are a must-try for any bread lover.
15of 40
Portuguese Style Parisienne Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Olive Oil, Garlic Salt, Paprika, Dried
These creamy and flavorful Parisienne potatoes are a classic Portuguese side dish. Made with sliced potatoes, garlic, and herbs, these potatoes are baked in a creamy sauce until golden and delicious. They pair well with any protein and are a great way to add some Portuguese flair to your meal.
16of 40
French toast (Portuguese style)
Main Ingredients: Bread, Milk, Eggs, Sugar, Cinnamon, Vegetable Oil
This sweet and indulgent breakfast dish is a favorite in Portuguese homes. Made with slices of bread soaked in a mixture of eggs, milk, and spices, this French toast is then fried until golden and crispy. It is often served with a drizzle of sweet syrup or honey for a decadent treat.
17of 40
Portuguese Daisy
Main Ingredients: Port Wine, Brandy, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Grenadine
This refreshing and colorful cocktail is a popular drink in Portugal, especially during the summer months. Made with gin, lemon juice, and elderflower syrup, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot day. It is often garnished with a slice of lemon or a fresh daisy flower.
18of 40
Portuguese Grilled Pork Ribs
Main Ingredients: Pork Rib, White Wine, Garlic, Fresh Thyme, Olive Oil
These finger-licking good pork ribs are a must-try for any BBQ lover. The ribs are marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce before being grilled to perfection. They are a popular dish in Portugal, especially during summer gatherings and celebrations.
Egg tarts, also known as pastel de nata, are a delicious and iconic Portuguese dessert. These tarts are made with a flaky crust and a creamy egg custard filling, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon. They are a must-try for any dessert lover and can be found in bakeries and cafes all over Portugal.
20of 40
Nando’s Portuguese Spicy Rice
Main Ingredients: Rice, Water, Frozen Peas, Bell Pepper, Onion, Garlic
This flavorful and spicy rice dish is inspired by the popular chain restaurant Nando's, which originated in South Africa but has a strong presence in Portugal. Made with rice, garlic, peppers, and peri-peri sauce, this rice is a great side dish for any protein and packs a punch of flavor.
This traditional Portuguese dish is full of rich and bold flavors. The combination of tender fish, potatoes, and tomatoes creates a hearty and satisfying stew. It's perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion with friends and family. The secret to making the best Portuguese fish stew is using fresh ingredients and taking your time to let the flavors meld together. Serve with crusty bread for dipping and enjoy!
Caçoila, also known as Portuguese stewed beef, is a comfort food favorite in Portugal. This dish is typically made with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. The key to making the perfect caçoila is to let it simmer and cook low and slow to allow the meat to become tender and the flavors to develop. Serve with rice or crusty bread for a hearty and delicious meal.
23of 40
Portuguese Orange Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Oranges, All
This moist and flavorful cake is a staple in Portuguese households. The use of fresh orange juice and zest gives it a bright and citrusy flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. The almond flour in the batter adds a nutty and delicious element. This Portuguese orange cake is a must-try for any dessert lover.
24of 40
Portuguese Chickpea Salad
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Yellow Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic, Fresh
This refreshing and nutritious salad is a popular dish in Portugal. It's made with chickpeas, tuna, tomatoes, and olives, and dressed with a simple vinaigrette. The combination of flavors and textures makes this salad a perfect side dish or a light lunch option. It's quick and easy to make, and will surely become a go-to recipe in your household.
Also known as caldo verde, this traditional Portuguese soup is a hearty and comforting meal. It's made with potatoes, sliced kale, and chorizo, and seasoned with garlic and paprika. The result is a flavorful and satisfying soup that will warm you up on a cold day. Serve with crusty bread for a complete and filling meal.
This simple and delicious dish is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. It's made with white beans and linguiça, a traditional Portuguese sausage. The combination of flavors from the sausage and beans creates a hearty and flavorful dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. Serve with rice and crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
These creamy and flaky egg tarts are a popular dessert in Portugal. They are made with a buttery pastry crust and filled with a delicious egg custard, which is flavored with cinnamon and lemon zest. These Portuguese egg tarts are a must-try for any pastry lover and are perfect for a special occasion or a sweet treat any day of the week.
28of 40
Spicy Portuguese Shrimp
Main Ingredients: Large Shallot, Garlic, Olive Oil, Shrimp, White Wine
This dish is bursting with flavor and spice. It's made with tender shrimp cooked in a flavorful sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes. The result is a delicious and bold dish that can be served over pasta or rice. Add crusty bread on the side to soak up the extra sauce.
This simple and healthy dish is a popular choice in Portugal. It's made with your choice of white fish fillets, topped with a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and olive oil. The fish is then baked to perfection, creating a tender and flavorful meal. Serve with a fresh salad for a well-rounded and nutritious dinner option.
30of 40
Peri-peri Chicken, the Spicy Portuguese Chicken
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chili, Garlic, Lemon, Paprika, Bay Leaf
This dish has become a global sensation, and for a good reason. The combination of spicy peri-peri sauce and tender chicken is a match made in heaven. The chicken is marinated in the sauce for maximum flavor and then grilled to perfection. Serve with fries or roasted potatoes for a delicious and spicy meal.
31of 40
Portuguese Style Baked Eggs
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Red Bell Peppers, Onion, Garlic, Crushed Red
This dish is a Portuguese twist on the classic baked eggs. It's made with eggs cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce, seasoned with garlic, paprika, and chorizo. The result is a hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch option. Serve with crusty bread for dipping and enjoy the delicious flavors.
32of 40
Portuguese Rolls – Papo Secos
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Warm
These soft and pillowy rolls are a staple in Portuguese cuisine. They are perfect for sandwiches or as a side to any meal. The secret to making the perfect papo secos is using potato flour, which gives them a unique texture and flavor. Serve these rolls warm with butter or your favorite sandwich fillings for a tasty and authentic Portuguese experience.
33of 40
Portuguese Chicken and Crispy Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Potatoes, Marinade, Ancho Chilies, Smoked
This mouth-watering dish is a crowd-pleaser in Portugal. It's made with tender chicken thighs and potatoes, seasoned with garlic, paprika, and rosemary, and roasted until crispy and golden brown. The flavors are simple yet bold, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Serve with a side of vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
This spicy and flavorful dish is a must-try for seafood lovers. It's made with shrimp cooked in a sauce made with coconut milk, tomatoes, and spices. The result is a delicious and creamy dish that pairs perfectly with rice or pasta. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra pop of flavor.
35of 40
Portuguese Style Parisienne Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Olive Oil, Garlic Salt, Paprika, Dried
This dish is a Portuguese take on the classic Parisienne potatoes. It's made with potatoes cooked in a creamy and flavorful sauce, seasoned with garlic, onion, and nutmeg. The result is a tasty and comforting side dish that pairs well with any main course. Serve with roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal.
36of 40
French toast (Portuguese style)
Main Ingredients: Bread, Milk, Eggs, Sugar, Cinnamon, Vegetable Oil
This sweet and indulgent breakfast option is a Portuguese twist on the classic French toast. It's made with sliced bread soaked in a mixture of eggs, milk, and cinnamon, and then pan-fried until golden and crispy. Serve with fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey for a delicious and satisfying breakfast.
37of 40
Portuguese Grilled Pork Ribs
Main Ingredients: Pork Rib, White Wine, Garlic, Fresh Thyme, Olive Oil
These tender and flavorful pork ribs are a hit in any Portuguese household. They are marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, paprika, and red wine vinegar before being grilled to perfection. The result is juicy and succulent ribs that will have you coming back for more. Serve with a side of potato salad for a delicious and complete meal.
This is another variation of the traditional Portuguese egg tarts. They are made with a flaky puff pastry crust and filled with a creamy and rich egg custard. These mini egg tarts are perfect for a party or a special occasion and are sure to impress your guests. Serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
39of 40
Nando’s Portuguese Spicy Rice
Main Ingredients: Rice, Water, Frozen Peas, Bell Pepper, Onion, Garlic
This spicy and flavorful rice dish is inspired by the popular Portuguese restaurant chain, Nando's. It's made with rice cooked in a tomato and peri-peri sauce. The result is a delicious and colorful side dish that pairs well with any main course. Add in some vegetables for a complete and nutritious meal.
40of 40
Portuguese Daisy
Main Ingredients: Port Wine, Brandy, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Grenadine
This refreshing and fruity cocktail is a popular choice in Portugal. It's made with vodka, gin, orange juice, and grenadine, and garnished with a slice of orange and a maraschino cherry. It's perfect for a sunny day or a fun night out. Cheers to a taste of Portugal in every sip!
The Origins of the Portuguese Malasada
A Fusion of Cultures
The Portuguese malasada can be traced back to the island of Madeira, a Portuguese territory located off the coast of Africa. Madeira is known for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture, which is reflected in their cuisine. The malasada is believed to have originated from a traditional Portuguese dessert called "malassada," which is a fried doughnut sprinkled with sugar. However, the malasada as we know it today is a result of the fusion of Portuguese and Hawaiian cultures. During the 19th century, many Portuguese immigrants traveled to Hawaii to work in the sugar plantations. They brought along their culinary traditions, including the malassada, which eventually evolved into the malasada we know and love today.
A Symbol of Celebration
In Hawaii, malasadas are often associated with the celebration of Shrove Tuesday, also known as "Malasada Day." This tradition started in the 19th century when Portuguese families would use up all their sugar, butter, and lard before the fasting period of Lent began. They would make and share malasadas with their neighbors, and the tradition has continued to this day. In fact, there are many bakeries in Hawaii that specialize in making and selling malasadas year-round.
The Recipe for Portuguese Malasadas
Now that you know the history of this delicious treat, it's time to try making it at home! Below is a recipe for traditional Portuguese malasadas that will surely satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 cup milk
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 egg
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Vegetable oil for frying
1/2 cup sugar for coating
Instructions:
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, salt, and nutmeg.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth dough forms.
Cover the dough and let it rest for 1 hour.
In a deep pot, heat the vegetable oil to 375°F.
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, drop the dough into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Remove the malasadas from the oil and drain on a paper towel.
Roll the malasadas in sugar while they are still warm.
Serve and enjoy your homemade Portuguese malasadas!
Final Thoughts
The Portuguese malasada is a delicious and indulgent dessert that has become a beloved treat all over the world. Its rich history and cultural significance make it more than just a pastry - it's a symbol of celebration and togetherness. So why not try making this tasty treat at home and share it with your loved ones? We hope this article has inspired you to give this recipe a try and discover the joy of the Portuguese malasada for yourself.