Petiscos: A Taste of Portugal

By Coledown Kitchen

Introducing Petiscos: A Taste of Portugal - a culinary journey through the vibrant and flavorful world of Portuguese small plates, known as petiscos. Delve into the heart and soul of Portuguese cuisine as you explore the rich tapestry of flavors, colors, and aromas that define this gastronomic tradition.

Petiscos, akin to Spanish tapas or Italian antipasti, are small, shareable dishes bursting with regional ingredients and bold flavors. In this cookbook, you'll discover an enticing array of petiscos recipes, thoughtfully curated by season to capture the essence of Portugal's diverse culinary landscape.

From succulent seafood delights to hearty comfort foods, each recipe offers a tantalizing glimpse into Portugal's gastronomic heritage.

Bom apetite! 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Coledown Kitchen
• Release date: Feb 12, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224261918

Book preview

Introduction

In this cookbook, we invite you to embark on a flavorful exploration of Portuguese petiscos.

But what exactly are petiscos? Imagine a delightful array of small plates and appetizers, each bursting with flavor and crafted to be shared among friends and family. Petiscos are the heart and soul of Portuguese dining culture—an expression of conviviality, community, and the simple joys of good food.

Derived from the Portuguese word "petiscar," meaning to nibble or snack, petiscos encompass a wide range of dishes that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Portugal. From crispy codfish fritters to succulent grilled sardines, each petisco offers a tantalizing glimpse into the diverse flavors and regional specialties that define Portuguese cuisine.

In this cookbook, we've gathered a collection of petiscos to suit every season, showcasing the freshest ingredients and traditional techniques that make Portuguese cooking truly exceptional. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering, planning a cozy dinner for two, or simply craving a taste of Portugal at home, these recipes are sure to inspire your culinary adventures.

So join us as we journey through the four seasons, savoring the vibrant flavors, aromatic spices, and warm hospitality that make petiscos a cherished part of Portuguese gastronomy.

Bom apetite!

Spring

As the flowers bloom and the weather warms, it's time to celebrate the freshness and renewal of spring with a delightful array of Portuguese petiscos. From succulent seafood to crispy fritters, each recipe in this chapter captures the essence of springtime in Portugal, inviting you to savor the season's bounty and share in the joy of good food with loved ones.

Portuguese Garlic Shrimp

Dive into the briny depths of Portuguese cuisine with this classic dish. Bursting with flavor from garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs, these succulent shrimp are a true taste of the sea. Served sizzling hot and accompanied by crusty bread for dipping, this dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family on a warm spring evening.

Ingredients:

- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1/4 cup olive oil

- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Lemon wedges for serving

Serving Size: 4

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.

3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.

4. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley.

5. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Codfish Fritters (Bolinhos de Bacalhau)

Made with salted codfish, potatoes, and aromatic seasonings, these golden morsels are a beloved petisco that captures the essence of this Portuguese culinary tradition.

Ingredients:

- 1 lb (450g) salted codfish

- 2 large potatoes, peeled and quartered