Portuguese Steak Recipes

Discover the Best Portuguese Steak Recipes: A Culinary Journey through Portugal

Indulge in the rich and authentic flavors of Portuguese cuisine with our selection of tantalizing Portuguese steak recipes. Whether you’re planning a trip to Portugal or simply looking to recreate these culinary delights at home, these recipes are a must-try for any food enthusiast.

From the succulent Prego no Pão, a steak sandwich bursting with savory goodness, to the flavorful Bife à Portuguesa, a classic Portuguese-style steak, these dishes will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Portugal. Our collection of authentic Portuguese steak recipes showcases the perfect blend of spices, marinades, and cooking techniques that make these dishes truly unforgettable. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey filled with mouthwatering aromas, bold flavors, and the unmistakable taste of Portugal.

Read more: Best Things to Eat in Portugal?

Portuguese Prego Sandwich Recipe

The Prego sandwich is a staple in almost every snack bar in Portugal. It’s simple yet delicious, reflecting the essence of Portuguese cuisine.

What does “Prego” mean in Portuguese?

Contrary to what one might expect, “Prego” translates to “nail” in English. However, there’s no need for a hammer here. The Prego sandwich is a delightful creation consisting of tender fried meat nestled between soft white bread slices.

The Origin of the Prego Sandwich

Manuel Prego, a proud resident of Praia das Macas in Sintra, Portugal, introduced this mouthwatering delight to the world. With his innovative touch, he crafted this satisfying sandwich, making it the centerpiece of his humble snack bar.

How to Order a Portuguese Prego

When ordering a Portuguese Prego, you have two options: Prego no Pão or Prego no Prato. “Prego no Pão” means you’ll receive a sandwich with tender beef served between bread slices. “Prego no Prato” means your order will include beef, rice, French fries, and possibly a fried egg, salad, or vegetables.

Difference Between Bitoque and Prego

When dining at a Portuguese restaurant, it’s important to distinguish between two popular dishes: Bitoque and Prego. Bitoque features pork meat, while Prego consists of tender cow steak. Pay close attention to your order to ensure you receive the dish you desire.

Read more: Eat like a local in Portugal.

Portuguese Prego Steak Recipe

Ingredients for One Person:

• One white bread
• One beefsteak (sirloin steak preferred)
• One garlic clove
• One bay leaf
• One tablespoon of olive oil
• 1/2 tablespoon butter
• Yellow mustard or Piri-Piri
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Lay the steak on a cutting board or a dish.
2. Roughly chop the garlic and crush it into the meat. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bay leaf and olive oil.
4. Fry the beef for barely two to three minutes, turning once. Transfer to a dish.
5. Cut the bread and toast it in the same pan.
6. Serve the steak on the toasted bread with mustard. Enjoy this prego recipe with a good beer!

Portuguese Steak with Coffee Sauce

This Portuguese beef recipe, featuring a delightful coffee sauce, requires additional preparation time but is worth the effort.

Ingredients for Four Persons:

• 4 beefsteaks (about 500 grams)
• 50 ml strong coffee
• 100 ml heavy cream
• Four cloves of garlic
• 100 ml Port wine
• 40 grams unsalted butter
• Two bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Season the steaks with salt, pepper, bay leaf, and smashed garlic. Leave to marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. In a skillet, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add the steaks with the marinade and fry for 3 minutes per side. Remove to a plate.
4. Add smashed garlic and bay leaf to the pan. Increase heat to medium-high, add wine and coffee, and stir.
5. Add the cream, adjusting the salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Return the steaks to the skillet to warm up if desired. Serve with white rice or fried potatoes.

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Portuguese Beef Skewers – Espetada

The Portuguese Beef Skewers are also known as Espetada. While it may not be a traditional steak, these skewers are a cherished favorite among grilling enthusiasts. Prepare to be captivated by the incredible flavor combination that awaits you.

What do espetadas mean?

Espetadas, a traditional Portuguese dish, features large cubes of meat skewered onto bay leaf sticks along with onions and peppers, then grilled to perfection. Originating from the picturesque island of Madeira, this delectable recipe is a cherished part of Portuguese cuisine.

While bay laurel trees may not be readily available everywhere, you can easily substitute them with standard wood skewers, conveniently found in most grocery stores. Don’t miss the chance to recreate this mouthwatering barbecue delight and experience the authentic flavors of Portugal.

Ingredients for Four Persons:

• 500 grams of cubed beef
• Garlic powder
• Two onions
• Green pepper
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• One tablespoon of olive oil

Preparation:

1. Soak wooden skewers in water.
2. In a bowl, mix garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the cubed beef and mix. Marinate for about 1 hour.
3. Skewer the meat, alternating with onion and pepper pieces.
4. Grill over high heat. Traditionally grilled over hot coals, it can also be prepared on a gas grill.
5. Serve with white rice and fried potatoes.

Read more: Best Time to Visit Portugal.

Cachena Steak

The Cachena breed, originating from both Portugal and Galicia, Spain, is renowned for its exceptionally delicious meat. These triple-purpose cattle are notably smaller in size compared to other breeds, but their meat is truly extraordinary, delivering a burst of irresistible flavors!

Ingredients for Four Persons:

• Four Cachena steaks
• “Tarrestre” beans
• White rice

Preparation:

1. Prepare the Cachena steaks to your preferred doneness.
2. Cook the “tarrestre” beans until tender.
3. Serve the steak with rice and beans, savoring the rich, unique flavors of the Cachena breed.

Explore More Portuguese Steak Delights

When you delve into Portuguese cuisine, you’ll find an array of exquisite steak recipes that go beyond the ordinary. Imagine a succulent steak accompanied by a rich Port wine and pepper sauce, a tantalizing combination that will leave your taste buds in awe.

Unleash your taste for adventure and let the flavors of Portugal awaken your senses. From the iconic Prego sandwich to the elegant Cachena steak, Portuguese cuisine offers a unique and delightful experience for every food lover. Embrace the opportunity to taste these exceptional dishes and immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of Portugal. Join us on this remarkable journey and elevate your dining experience to new heights.