Spanish vs. Portuguese Food: What’s the Difference?

Is there a difference between Spanish and Portuguese food? The two cultures may share some similarities, but they’re also unique in their own way. Dishes from the Iberian Peninsula have been influenced by Arabic, Jewish, and French cultures.

In Spain, you can find dishes like paella, chorizo, and paprika. In Portugal, you’ll see dishes like bacalhau (dried salt cod), linguiça (a type of Portuguese sausage), and feijoada (a Brazilian dish).

The most common dishes in Spain are tapas which are a series of small dishes that are eaten with drinks.

In Portugal, it’s customary to have a hearty lunch or dinner that includes soup or salad as an appetizer followed by a few different main courses with dessert for dessert. But what do locals think is the best meal?

Check out this article to find out!

General Differences

Spain and Portugal share many similarities but there are some differences as well. The most common dish in Spain is tapas, which are small dishes that come with drinks.

In Portugal, it’s typical to have a lunch or dinner that includes soup or salad as an appetizer followed by a few different main courses with dessert for dessert. But what do locals think is the best meal? You can find out by reading this article!

Spanish vs. Portuguese Food: What’s the Difference?

The two cultures may share some similarities, but they’re also unique in their own way. Dishes from the Iberian Peninsula have been influenced by Arabic, Jewish, and French cultures.

In Spain, you can find dishes like paella, chorizo, and paprika. In Portugal, you’ll see dishes like bacalhau (dried salt cod), linguiça (a type of Portuguese sausage), and feijoada (a Brazilian dish).

The most common dishes in Spain are tapas which are a series of small dishes that are eaten with drinks.

In Portugal, it’s customary to have a hearty lunch or dinner that includes soup or salad as an appetizer followed by a few different main courses with dessert for dessert.

Tapas

Tapas are small dishes that are eaten with drinks. The tradition has its origins in 17th-century Spain, but tapas can be found all over the world.

Creamy smoked eggplant topped with an olive mix and drizzled with balsamic vinegar sounds like a good idea for tapas! You can also use boiled eggs or anchovies as garnishes, or serve your tapas with crusty bread.

The Best Meal?

In Spain, the typical dishes are tapas which are small dishes that are eaten with drinks. In Portugal, it’s customary to have a hearty lunch or dinner that includes soup or salad as an appetizer followed by a few different main courses with dessert .

There aren’t many differences between the two cuisines, but it’s interesting to see how they’ve evolved. And of course, who doesn’t love trying new foods?

Conclusion

While both countries have a lot of shared similarities, there are some fundamental differences that separate the two cuisines.

Spanish dishes are usually served with rice or bread, while Portuguese dishes are served with fries or potatoes. Portuguese dishes are usually made with beef, pork or chicken, while Spanish dishes usually contain seafood.

The best meal? It’s really kind of up to you. With so many great dishes to try, you’ll never be bored.