Traditional Christmas Eve dishes in Portugal

Traditional Christmas Eve dishes in Portugal

At Portuguese Christmas dinner, the most common traditional dish is cod cooked with everyone . It is a centuries-old tradition that marks the Christmas celebration in many Portuguese homes.

Why cod?

• Tradition : Eating cod on Christmas Eve is a religious tradition that dates back to the Lenten fast.
• Flavor : Cod, when well prepared, offers a unique and comforting flavor, perfect for a special night.
• Versatility : There are countless cod recipes, each with its own regional characteristics.

In addition to cod, other typical dishes may appear on the Christmas table, such as:

• Roast turkey : A more modern option, but increasingly popular.
• Roast kid : Mainly in inland regions.
• Cooked octopus : Very common in the north of the country.

Side dishes:

Cod is usually accompanied by boiled potatoes, Portuguese cabbage, carrots and boiled egg.

Desserts:

To finish the meal, typical Christmas desserts include aletria, filhós, bolo-rei and rabanadas.

Christmas Dinner with Wine Pairing

Prohibited:

• Liver pâté: A classic! Served with homemade toast and pickles, this pâté pairs perfectly with a fresh and aromatic Alvarinho Loureiro white wine. The acidity of the wine cuts through the fat in the pâté, creating a perfect balance.

Main course:

• Cooked cod with everything: The most traditional dish on our Christmas table. The combination of cooked cod, boiled potatoes, Portuguese cabbage, carrots and boiled egg calls for a light and fresh white wine with good acidity, such as an Alvarinho . The floral notes and minerality of this wine pair perfectly with the delicate flavors of the dish.

• Roast turkey: For meat lovers, roast turkey is an excellent option. To accompany it, a Dão red wine with good structure and soft tannins. The red fruit and spices in this wine combine perfectly with the flavors of the turkey.

Dessert:

• Rabanada: The most traditional Christmas dessert. A sweet treat with a cinnamon and bread flavor, which calls for a sweet wine, such as a Tawny Port . The sweetness of the wine balances the sweetness of the rabanada, creating an irresistible combination.
• Bolo-Rei: A cake rich in dried fruits and spices. Served with Moscatel de Setúbal , a sweet and aromatic wine with notes of caramel and dried fruits.

Wines to toast:

• Brut Sparkling Wine: To start the dinner and toast with the guests.
• Tawny Port: A classic to accompany desserts.

Tips:

• Try Portuguese wines: Our country has a wide variety of quality wines, with different profiles and aromas.
• Harmonize the flavors: The choice of wine should be made according to the flavors of the dishes.
• Serve wines at the right temperature: Red wines should be served slightly chilled, while white wines should be served very cold.
• Have fun! Christmas dinner is a time to celebrate with family and friends.

Note: This is just a suggestion. Feel free to adapt the dinner to your tastes and preferences.

Remember: Wine pairing is an art, and the most important thing is to choose wines that you like and that go well with your Christmas dinner.

Merry Christmas !