Francesinha
A Portuguese sandwich originally from Porto, made with various meats, covered in melted cheese and a special tomato and beer sauce. Although it's not originally from Gaia, it is a regional specialty and may be offered.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Restaurante El Corte Inglés
The Francesinha was created in Porto in the 1950s by Daniel David da Silva, an emigrant who had worked in France. He adapted the French croque-monsieur to Portuguese tastes, creating a heartier, more flavorful sandwich.
The Francesinha is deeply ingrained in the culture of Porto, often considered a symbol of the city. It's a dish enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, representing the city's culinary heritage and hospitality.
Porto's Culinary Icon
The Francesinha is arguably Porto's most famous dish. You'll find variations of it in almost every restaurant and cafe in the city.
Social Gathering Food
It's a popular meal to share with friends and family, typically enjoyed in a casual setting.
Late-Night Comfort Food
Francesinhas are often eaten late at night after a night out, serving as a hearty and satisfying meal.
Local Pride
The people of Porto take great pride in their Francesinha, and there's often debate about which establishment serves the best version.
The Francesinha is a symphony of savory flavors. The combination of various meats, melted cheese, and the signature tomato and beer sauce creates a rich, umami-packed experience, with subtle hints of spice and acidity.
The sandwich's flavor profile is primarily savory, derived from the smoked ham, linguiça (Portuguese sausage), fresh sausage, and steak or roast beef. The melted cheese adds a creamy, mild counterpoint to the meats. The sauce is the key, bringing sweetness from the tomato, bitterness and depth from the beer, and a touch of spice from piri-piri or other chili peppers.
Sauce Consistency
A good Francesinha sauce should be thick enough to coat the sandwich without being overly heavy. It should also have a slight kick.
Egg on Top?
Ordering your Francesinha 'com ovo' (with an egg) is a common and delicious addition. The runny yolk adds extra richness.
Bread Quality
The bread should be slightly toasted to prevent it from becoming soggy but soft enough to be easily cut.
Knife and Fork Required
Don't be afraid to use a knife and fork! The Francesinha is often too large and messy to eat with your hands.
Order 'Normal' or 'Meia'
If you are not too hungry, consider asking for 'Meia Francesinha' meaning 'Half Francesinha'.
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