POPULAR SAINTS AT THE TABLE: DISHES THAT CAN’T BE MISSED AT THE FESTIVITIES

The Popular Saints festivities are a very special time in Portugal, filled with music, dancing and, of course, lots of delicious food! Celebrated in June, these festivities pay homage to Saint Anthony, Saint John and Saint Peter, bringing culinary traditions that bring family and friends together around the table.

1. Grilled Sardines

Without a doubt, the most emblematic dish of these festivities is grilled sardines. Soft, succulent and full of flavour, sardines are usually served with bread, roast potatoes or a fresh salad. It’s impossible to imagine the Popular Saints without the unmistakable aroma of grilled sardines!

2. Caldo Verde

This traditional caldo verde is the soup that warms hearts during festive nights. Prepared with kale, potatoes, onion and chorizo, it is a comforting option that is always present at popular festivities.

3. Bread with Chorizo

Bread with chorizo, often baked in the oven, is a classic snack that accompanies celebrations. The bread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, while the chorizo ​​releases all its aroma and flavour.

4. Rice Pudding

Rice pudding is a traditional dessert that sweetens the festivities of the Popular Saints. Creamy and flavoured with cinnamon, it is the perfect end to a typical and festive meal.

5. Sardines in Cornbread

Another much-loved way to enjoy sardines is inside cornbread, a rustic cornbread. The combination of the flavour of the sardines with the texture of cornbread results in an irresistible snack.

6. Convent and Arraiais Sweets

To sweeten the festivities even more, convent sweets, such as pastéis de nata and bolas de Berlim, are always welcome. In addition, the arraiais — open-air festivals with food stalls — offer a huge variety of typical delicacies.

The food at the Popular Saints festivals is the soul of these celebrations, bringing together flavour, tradition and conviviality. Whether it’s grilled sardines or rice pudding, each dish tells a story of culture and sharing.

And you, what’s your favourite food from these festivals? Share it with us in the comments!