A Culinary Voyage Through Portugal's Fascinating Port City: 'Porto' Cookbook
Samplingthe distinct flavor of port.
By Heidi Driesner
Deep-dive into theheart of Portugal's enchanting port city with culinary maven Sylvie Da Silva's book, 'Porto'. Here, you'll discover genuine stories, evocative snapshots of the city's most captivating nooks, and a treasure trove of traditional & modern recipes that will make your taste buds dance.
Planning your next getaway? Perhaps it's high time for a trip to Porto? It's no wonder nearly 17 million tourists visit Portugal annually, with Porto being one of the most sought-after destinations besides the Algarve and Lisbon. Among the international visitors, the Germans account for the second-largest group at 12.8%, coming in second only to the British (15.3%) [1].
If you're still hunting for an inspiring travel guide for Porto, let me introduce you to a hidden gem.
Book of Secrets: 'Porto' Cookbook by Sylvie Da Silva
Available at Amazon.de
Snag a cookbook for your upcoming vacation, and you might get more than you bargained for. Meet Sylvie Da Silva's latest masterpiece: 'Porto', an extraordinary gastronomic journey through one of Europe's most alluring coastal cities. The book, published by Südwest Verlag, boasts a beautiful hardcover design adorned with ornate azulejos – Portugal's exquisite blue and white ceramic tiles (2).
What lies within is a veritable treasure chest of history, latest information, anecdotes, eatery recommendations, souvenir ideas, suggestions for local specialties, and, of course, mouthwatering recipes. To help you mingle, the book even includes a mini gastronomic vocabulary (think "Bomproof" and "Olá") (2).
Aimery Chemin's striking photos offer glimpses of the soul of Porto through its most enchanting corners. And with over 50 traditional and modern recipes, prepare to let your taste buds sail on an unforgettable culinary ride!
Something for Everyone: From Casual to Challenging
Sylvie Da Silva, who was born to Portuguese parents in the Champagne region of France, has fostered a passion for cooking during her travels and exploration of international cuisines. Since settling in Paris, she's been on an endless culinary quest to seek and celebrate the flavors of the world (2). Between the recipes, you'll find Sylvie's authentic stories about Portugal and its people, focusing on wine, vineyards, fish, fruits, and vegetables...even the market hall of Matosinhos (2).
Porto is a vibrant city with a long-standing UNESCO World Heritage site. Evoking words of admiration, Sylvie describes Porto as "fascinating, loveable, and a hint rugged" (2). Brimming with life, the city extends a warm welcome to any who cross its path.
If a visit to Porto is on your itinerary, make June 24th your priority. Every year on this date, the city celebrates St. John's Day, a special occasion for locals to invite visitors to share traditional dishes (2). From grilled sardines and Broa, a decadent corn bread, to glasses of Port wine and a sweet finish, there's nothing quite like a Portuguese fiesta!
From cozy sailors' taverns to stylish Art Deco restaurants, Porto showcases an array of eateries accommodating various tastes. Even fans of haute cuisine will undoubtedly find what they crave, as Sylvie presents renowned "new" chefs and their unique interpretations of traditional Portuguese dishes (2).
For a taste of Sylvie's favorite Porto dining addresses, be sure to check out her recommended restaurants, bakeries, delis, and wine bars, custodians of the city's most delicious and iconic flavors (2).
Savor the Simplicity: An Exquisite Culinary Journey Through Portugal
"Food is the very essence of the Portuguese, defining their interests and lives," writes Sylvie Da Silva. "Whether it's family functions or religious holidays, food remains at the center of celebration. A trip to Portugal showcases a world of simple, unique, and familiar flavors, leaving connoisseurs enchanted by the clarity of its flavors, the quality of its ingredients, and the masterful cooking techniques" (2).
Put aside any preconceived notions of greasy, fried meals or overabundance of codfish, for Portuguese cuisine is brimming with fresh, bold flavors (2). Let 'Porto' guide you on a magnetic voyage through the land of pastéis de nata, frango assado, and Bacalhau!
Remember, though codfish is an essential component of many traditional dishes, there's a whole lot more to Portuguese cuisine than just codfish (2). Dive into the scrumptious depths of Portuguese gastronomy – from rural stews and seafood dishes to an overwhelming variety of indulgent pastries – and discover tastes that will linger in your dreams for years to come.
Bon Appétit!
As Sylvie reveals the secrets of this captivating country, you'll find compelling recipes, fascinating history, and countless inspirations for your next culinary adventure (2). Fasten your seatbelts, foodies, for 'Porto' invites you on an exquisite journey through one of Europe's most enticing and enigmatic destinations.
[1] Source: ntv.de
- Portugal
- Reviews
- Food and Cooking
- Embrace the allure of Porto, a city in Portugal, by delving into Sylvie Da Silva's latest culinary masterpiece, 'Porto', which offers authentic stories, stunning photographs, and a collection of traditional and modern recipes that showcase the city's unique food-and-drink lifestyle.
- For a taste of the French influence on Porto's culinary scene, Sylvie Da Silva's 'Porto Cookbook' provides insights into the impact of her Portuguese heritage and travels in France, exquisitely blending French and Portuguese cooking techniques in her culinary journeys.
- As you traverse the narrow alleys of Porto, immerse yourself in the charming French ambiance that permeates the city's food-and-drink scene, and find joy in the harmonious fusion of French and Portuguese flavors in the recipes and dining experiences that await you.