The Jews’ Influence on Portugese Cuisine

Rarely will you hear that Jews have been credited for influencing the cuisine of the country they settled in (save perhaps for Israel). On most occasions, they instead adapted their meals depending on what was available in their host country. As long as the recipes were kosher, it was alright. Such is not the case in Portugal and Spain, the Sephardic destination of many Jewish heritage tours.

In the Iberian Peninsula, the Sephardic Jews lived and thrived. While they suffered persecution, their influence on the local culture could not be denied. Many Sephardic dishes were adopted by the non-Jewish locals. A good number of recipes that are common in Iberian homes can often be traced back to the early Jewish settlers. Some of these dishes include the caldeirada, arroz doce, and the pasteis de bacalhau.

Perhaps the most well-known instance of Portugal embracing Jewish food is the alheira, a type of sausage traditionally made out of non-pork meats like poultry or veal, mixed with bread to add texture. Think of it as the kosher version of a chorizo. 

It was invented by Jewish "converts" of Catholicism during the 1490s as a way of secretly avoiding pork while still hanging sausages in smokehouses. This would help them not raise suspicion from the Inquisition while still keeping themselves kosher. 

Over time, the alheira would become a widespread dish among the rest of the Portugese people. In fact, it is usually the cheapest item in most restaurants, unless it is made from game meat. 

Sephardic Jews also influenced food preparation and food preference in many parts of Portugal. Unleavened breads and cakes are a common sight all over the country. The slaughter and cleaning of animals is almost the same with how Jewish rites would dictate it. In the Azores region, for example, blood is drained from the meat. Some coastal places even avoid eating seafood that do not have scales. 

It is also interesting to note that the growth of Portugal’s olive oil and wine industries during medieval times can be attributed to enterprising Jews and their business acumen.

When exploring your heritage on Jewish trips to Portugal, do take the time to enjoy the country’s delightful dishes and have a taste of how the Jews shaped the country’s culinary history.

Report this Page