On the hunt for the finest Christmas recipes in Porto? In Porto and the northern region, the holiday season revolves around cherished moments with family and friends. It kicks off on Christmas Eve with a festive ‘Consoada’ or Christmas Dinner, a time when the whole family gathers around a beautifully set table, savoring a leisurely three to four-hour dining experience. If you’re eager to explore more about these traditions, consider joining our Christmas special Food Tour in Porto.
What do we put on our Christmas dinner tables?
1. Bacalhau (codfish)
Our Christmas is not imaginable without eating at least one dish with codfish, aka bacalhau, and all the trimmings: potatoes, carrots, radishes, carrots, kale and eggs. Simply boiled is the main method of preparation, but always generously sprinkled with extra virgin olive oil. Apart from the classic preparation, you’ll find various other delightful bacalhau dishes adorning our Christmas tables, whether for dinner or the following day’s lunch. Here are some of our favorite codfish recipes:
- Codfish cakes recipe (this particular recipe has a twist to it);
- Pataniscas recipe (can be served as a starter or as a main course);
- Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá recipe (as traditional as a Portuguese meal can get);
- Bacalhau à Zé do Pipo recipe (easiest Portuguese meal to impress someone, some would argue).
2. Desserts
Like we cannot imagine Christmas without Bacalhau, we also cannot imagine it without various desserts served during the holiday season. Here are some of the most typical Portuguese Christmas desserts and how to prepare them at home.
- Aletria recipe (a favorite for kids of all ages, from 0 to 99);
- Rabanadas recipe (gather your close family for an assembly line approach and you will be truly embracing the Portuguese way);
- Pão de Ló recipe (it has been around in Portuguese cuisine since at least 1700. Can you believe it?);
- Formigos de Natal recipe (this dessert combines the spirit of Porto with the traditions of Minho and Trás-os-Montes).
3. The perfect wine pairing for this special dinner
Portugal produces exquisite wines that are certainly a beautiful pairing option for your Christmas dinner. We’ve put together a few of our favorite Portuguese wines and asked our co-founder to share his top picks for wine bottles around 10€ as well. Feel free to express your gratitude in person during one of our Porto Food Tours.
4. Traditional drinks
While Porto is defiantly known for its Port wines, there are other traditional drinks, that one should try at least once. Here are some recommendations:
- Taste Licor Beirão (as an apéritif or also after a desert);
- Make a refreshing Port & Tonic cocktail.
Christmas in Porto
Finally, the ideal way to kick off your Christmas holidays is by joining one of our Food Tours. Guided by a passionate local, you’ll explore the culinary delights locals savor, visit hidden gems of eateries, sample our traditional cuisine, and there’s more! Along the way, delve into the history, culture, and architecture of our beloved Porto. Post-tour, our guide will gladly provide additional recommendations to enhance your Christmas holiday experience. Secure your spot today!
Merry Christmas & Enjoy the Holiday season!
Taste Porto Foodie Team
