Top 3 Portuguese Beef Dishes

Espetada is a traditional dish and a specialty of the island of Madeira. It consists of big pieces of beef that are marinated in salt and garlic, then skewered on a bay leaf stick. The stick is placed over hot coals until the meat is properly cooked. It is the most popular dish to serve at picnics or parties in Madeira. Espetada is often served with the skewer hung vertically from a hook, so that the flavorful juices can drip down onto a plate filled with thick-sliced, crusty bread. Pork, sausages, and squid can all act as a substitute for beef in espetada, but then it is not a typical Madeira dish anymore. Since it is a great summer dish, it is recommended to pair espetada with a glass of cold sangria.Expand

Bitoque is a traditional dish which consists of a lean fried steak that is usually accompanied by fries, rice, and various salads. Most commonly it is enjoyed as the main course complemented with tomato or mustard sauce and topped with a crispy fried egg. In the past, it was usually prepared with thin beef slices, but today pork varieties are equally popular. Bitoque is one of the most common lunch options for many Portuguese people and can be found on the menus of many traditional restaurants across the country. The sandwich variety of bitoque goes under the name prego.Expand

Posta Mirandesa is a traditional dish from the Trás-os-Montes and Alto-Douro regions of Portugal, made with thick cuts of Mirandesa beef, a high-quality meat from the Mirandesa breed. The meat is typically cut into chunks, about the size of a palm, and should be 3-4 cm (1.5") thick and weigh 250-300 grams (10 oz). The steak is cut from the pojadouro part of the cattle, which is the posterior part of the round. It is grilled with only coarse salt and is known for its exceptional tenderness and rich flavor. Traditionally cooked over wood-fired embers, this dish is served with boiled or roasted potatoes, vegetables, and sometimes mushrooms. It is a hallmark of the region's cuisine, enjoyed year-round in local restaurants.Expand