Portuguese bread rolls form a significant aspect of the tradition and culture of Portugal. Available in a wide variety, these freshly baked bread rolls are lovely and have an inviting aroma. Read our guide for more facts and information…
Portuguese communities, who immigrated to other parts of the world, carried along their bread-making tradition too. In parts of the USA, Portuguese bread rolls are sweet, with a pale yellow color and cake-like consistency. Hawaii and other coastal regions have a slightly varied tradition of these bread rolls, but basically the same. Portuguese settlers reached as far as southern England and California and the original immigrants used the ingredients available in their regions to bake their traditional bread. Thus, Portuguese bread rolls still retain their popularity in the modern era.
Bread-baking custom in Portugal
Portuguese bread rolls form a vital part of every Portuguese meal, and sometimes a whole meal comprises these fresh and lovely rolls. Orange juice and potato puree added to the dough impart a unique flavor, and the baking time along with the suitable temperature is essential to create the best bread rolls. Throughout Portugal different types of bread can be found, each influenced by distinct regional traditions. With bread as the centre of Portuguese cuisine, these traditional soft rolls combined with a variety of ingredients usually load the breakfast table. Croissants and bread with nuts and dry fruits are also popular items.
Types of Portuguese Bread Rolls
Portuguese bread called ‘Pao’, usually prepared from corn or wheat is well-known for its traditional taste. Broa, made from corn, is available as thick golden slices, tasting delicious. It is usually had with traditional soups. Pao de Forma is made of thick slices, preferably for toasts that are accompanied by cheese and some ham.
Milk rolls namely, Pao de leite form a breakfast delight taken with cheese. Portuguese bakeries and cafés offer a variety of croissants stuffed with almonds, cream and chocolate. Pau de Lo, for festive occasions is texturally soft and has genuine taste. Bola Rei, a Christmas delight is adorned with richly colored dried fruit and nuts.
Acorda consists of bread mixed with a few other ingredients and forms the main course in several restaurants in southern Portugal. For instance, Pap’Acorda is a bread dish with sea food. Rebanadas forms a sumptuous meal with Portuguese bread rolls cooked with sugar and eggs, after they are dipped in juice and some raisins. Baggette is made of square bread crusts and is offered as a snack in cafes.
Portuguese bread rolls form an indispensable part of Portuguese recipes and the wide variety of this bread is combined with almost any kind of ingredients to make sweet milk rolls, sandwiches, toasts and various other bread dishes. Bread is invariably served in all Portuguese Cafes, be it for a filling breakfast, a light snack or a sumptuous meal.
