Alheira
Alheira is a type of sausage that originates from Trás-os-Montes in the northern region of Portugal.
Its creation is attributed to the Jewish community during the Portuguese Inquisition in the 15th century. During that time Jewish people faced persecution and were forced to convert to Christianity or leave the country. Many, however, continued to secretly practice Judaism.
Alheira is made primarily from poultry, bread, and garlic and it resembles traditional pork sausages. Over time, different variations of alheira have emerged. While the classic version is made with poultry, it’s also possible to find pork, game meat, or even vegetarian options. As you’d expect each variation offers a distinct flavour profile.
Traditional Portuguese Dishes: Bifana
Bifana is a popular Portuguese sandwich that consists of marinated pork cutlets served on a roll. The pork is typically marinated in a mixture of garlic, paprika, white wine or beer, and seasonings to enhance the flavour.
The sandwich is a beloved street food usually made with a soft bread roll and slathered with mustard and hot sauce. This adds a tangy and spicy kick. If you’re in Lisbon, try As Bifanas do Afonso, one of the most popular spots for bifana.
Pica Pau
Pica Pau is a dish containing bite-sized pieces of meat, typically pork or beef, cooked in a savoury sauce.
The meat is usually pan-fried or sautéed. Onions, pickles, and other spices are added to the pan and cooked together with the meat until it’s cooked through and slightly browned. The dish is often finished off with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.
It’s enjoyed as an appetizer or main course, and often accompanied by other ingredients like olives or sliced peppers.
Alheira
Alheira is a type of sausage that originates from Trás-os-Montes in the northern region of Portugal.
Its creation is attributed to the Jewish community during the Portuguese Inquisition in the 15th century. During that time Jewish people faced persecution and were forced to convert to Christianity or leave the country. Many, however, continued to secretly practice Judaism.
Alheira is made primarily from poultry, bread, and garlic and it resembles traditional pork sausages. Over time, different variations of alheira have emerged. While the classic version is made with poultry, it’s also possible to find pork, game meat, or even vegetarian options. As you’d expect each variation offers a distinct flavour profile.
Traditional Portuguese Dishes: Bifana
Bifana is a popular Portuguese sandwich that consists of marinated pork cutlets served on a roll. The pork is typically marinated in a mixture of garlic, paprika, white wine or beer, and seasonings to enhance the flavour.
The sandwich is a beloved street food usually made with a soft bread roll and slathered with mustard and hot sauce. This adds a tangy and spicy kick. If you’re in Lisbon, try As Bifanas do Afonso, one of the most popular spots for bifana.
Pica Pau
Pica Pau is a dish containing bite-sized pieces of meat, typically pork or beef, cooked in a savoury sauce.
The meat is usually pan-fried or sautéed. Onions, pickles, and other spices are added to the pan and cooked together with the meat until it’s cooked through and slightly browned. The dish is often finished off with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.
It’s enjoyed as an appetizer or main course, and often accompanied by other ingredients like olives or sliced peppers.
