One of the best things about travelling to new places is getting to try delicious new delicacies. If you’re a food fan planning a trip to Portugal, then you’re in luck. Faro and the Algarve have a number of fantastic foods to try, from savoury meals to sweet treats. Take a look below at some of the great traditional Portuguese delicacies you must try while you’re there.
1 – Bacalhau
Bacalhau is a very popular, traditional Portuguese dish that you’ll be able to find no matter where you go in Portugal. It can also be cooked in a wide variety of styles, so there’s even more for you to try! Some say that there are nearly a thousand ways to serve it. Bacalhau itself is salted cod, and can be prepared as a full meal or also as snacks and appetisers. Take a look around and see how many different versions of bacalhau you find. If you’re a seafood fan, you’re bound to find a recipe you love.
2 – Caldo verde
Caldo verde is a simple, traditional Portuguese soup made with onions, potatoes and kale, and also cooked with garlic and olive oil. It is typically served with a slice of smoked pork sausage known as linguica. This is a very popular soup in Portuguese cuisine. Similar to bacalhau, it can also be cooked in a number of different ways.
3 – Arroz de bucho
If you fancy something a bit different to bacalhau and caldo verde, you could try arroz de bucho – a blend of rice and pork often served with salad and vegetables. Interestingly, arroz de bucho is cooked and served inside a pig’s stomach and usually served in slices. Don’t be put off though: arroz de bucho is well known for its great taste.
4 – Leitão
If you like meat but don’t particularly like the sound of arroz de bucho, why not give leitão a try? Leitão is a Portuguese version of suckling pig, typically spit-roasted in an oven and known for its rich fatty flavours. While cooking, leitão is continually basted with garlic, pepper, salt, bay leaves and pig fat. Leitão is also commonly served as part of a celebration or a special occasion.
5 – Portuguese cheeses
Portugal has a fantastic selection of cheeses to enjoy, such as Queijo de Azeitão and Serra da Estrela. Queijo de Azeitão is popular in Portugal and produced in Azeitão, from where it takes its name. It is easy to find in shops and restaurants, and is known for its creamy texture. Serra da Estrela comes from the Serra da Estrela mountains and is known for its strong smell and equally strong flavour. This cheese is made from sheep’s milk and is a gooey, delicious treat.
Of course, these are just some of the fabulous foods and treats that Portugal has to offer. Depending on where you go, you might even get a chance to try something else. If you’re planning a trip to Faro and the Algarve, take a look at our handy area guides to find out more before you travel.