What is the Portuguese tradition of eating "Francesinha"?
Post ByAdequate Travel
Summary
The Portuguese tradition of eating "Francesinha" has been around since the 1950s and it is a dish that has become somewhat of an iconic meal in Portugal. It is often considered to be Portugal's answer to the French Croque Monsieur and is made with a combination of ham, sausage, and steak, topped with cheese and a unique sauce to give it a kick. Learn more about this delectable Portuguese dish and its history in this blog post. As you prepare for your journey, familiarize yourself with the specific entry requirements, including any necessary visas or documentation.The Portuguese tradition of eating "Francesinha"
Francesinha is a traditional Portuguese dish that originated in Porto, a city in northern Portugal. It is a hearty sandwich that is typically made with a combination of various meats, covered in melted cheese and a rich tomato and beer sauce.
Components of a Francesinha:
1. Bread: The base of the Francesinha is a thick slice of bread, typically white or wheat bread.
2. Meats: The sandwich often includes a variety of meats such as ham, roast meat, linguiça (Portuguese smoked sausage), and sometimes even steak or chicken.
3. Cheese: The meats are covered with slices of cheese, traditionally Portuguese cheese like Queijo da Serra or Queijo Flamengo.
4. Sauce: The Francesinha is smothered in a flavorful sauce typically made with tomatoes, beer, and spices. The sauce is usually rich and slightly spicy.
5. Toppings: Some versions of Francesinha include additional toppings like a fried egg on top or served with french fries on the side.
Preparation and Serving:
1. The meats are layered between two slices of bread, and the entire sandwich is then covered with cheese.
2. The Francesinha is placed under a grill or in an oven until the cheese melts and becomes slightly golden and bubbly.
3. Once the sandwich is ready, it is typically served on a plate, generously bathed in the delicious sauce.
4. Some restaurants may drizzle more sauce over the top and add a fried egg or serve it with french fries.
Traditions and Variations:
1. The Francesinha is often served with a cold beer or other beverages like Portuguese red wine.
2. While the traditional Francesinha includes ham, roast meat, and sausage, some variations may substitute or add other meats according to personal preference.
3. Many restaurants in Porto have their own secret recipes for the sauce, creating a slightly different taste experience at each place.
4. Some people enjoy dipping the sandwich into the sauce while eating it, while others prefer pouring the sauce over the entire sandwich beforehand.
5. Francesinha festivals and competitions are held in Porto, celebrating this iconic Portuguese dish.
Before embarking on your journey to portugal, make sure to check the latest travel guidelines and entry requirements to ensure a smooth trip









