Portugal Diary
Ask any traveller and they will tell you that food is one of the best ways that a country can represent itself. Food is made to be consumed, to replenish strength, to satisfy hunger and to pleasure the palate. No other cultural product is as pure and straightforward as cooking.
Unlike art, literature, architecture, religion or politics, food can never subverted. It could never have underlying meanings. Food is food, and food is good. Gourmet cooking elevates food to another level of aesthetics. Gourmet is the fruit of humanity’s advancement, we are able to consume food to nourish both our bodies and through the art of gourmet cooking, our souls.
The Portuguese Take on Gourmet
If there is one element that food lovers will take note of in Portuguese gourmet, it is the abundant inclusion of cheese. There are many different kinds of cheese used in Portuguese foods, thanks to the many agricultural lands of the country; they are able to raise cheese producing cattle at bountiful rates. Cheese, in their land, is a staple in the dining table. Fish is also commonly found in Portugal, this is mostly due to the fact that there are many coastal regions in the country and fishing has been the way of life for some Portuguese families for many, many generations.
Some Special Portuguese Foods
If you ever find yourself in Lisbon, prepare yourself for a treat for your palate. This Portugal city has some of the best foods all over the world. Combined with great wine and a fantastic city, you are sure to be able to enjoy your every meal. If it is your first time to visit the country, be sure to order the Cozido, which is the official dish of Portugal. You should also be on the lookout for menu entries of bacalhau, francesinha, pastel de Belem, feijoada and caldeirada. Try any of these and you are sure to enjoy yourself.
