Lisbon is currently one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. The city’s allure and spell are found in its unique charm, the mysterious alleys, and whitewashed buildings. If you really want to experience something of what the capital of Portugal has to offer, try the delicious kitchen, which is provided in any corner of the city. And, most of all, try the desserts.
Next, you have some suggestions on the best desserts in Lisbon, from which you can try in any part of the city you visit.
Pastéis de Nata
Pastéis de Nata is the first on the list of popularity among the Portuguese. These are the pastry products found throughout the city and are usually served fresh and barely removed from the oven, with cinnamon and powdered sugar on top. The best place to eat Pastéis de Nata is at Pastéis de Belém, the birthplace of this dessert, producing it since the beginning of the 19th century. Other good places are Fábrica da Nata and Pastelaria Santo António.
Bolo Rei
Bolo Rei is a dessert specific to Christmas, which translates as ‘king’s cake’. It is a sweet, round doughnut with a hole in the middle, over which pieces of candied fruit are added. It was initially prepared to celebrate the visit made to the baby Jesus by the three kings (Mags). Try Bolo Rei at Confeitaria Nacional, in Lisbon. And, by the way, if you are here, also check this cool things to do in Lisbon.
Leite-crème
Another favorite dessert of the inhabitants of Lisbon. It’s actually an egg cream, but the Portuguese over-indulge it. Perfectly completes any dish, especially Rojões à Moda do Minho (fried pork with rice).
Arroz Doce
Arroz Doce is a pudding made of rice, usually seasoned with cinnamon and lemon. Although you can find it sometimes all year round, it is more a holiday dessert, enjoyed around Christmas and New Year.
Doce de chila / gila
Sugary jam, plus fios de ovos (this looks like noodles and is made of egg and sugar). They are often used for decoration or as stuffing.
Most of the desserts you will find during your holiday in Lisbon are based on eggs and are extremely tasty. They usually add various sweet additives such as cinnamon, powdered sugar, or vanilla. In the country’s northern regions, the desserts are very consistent and very sweet.
Any dessert you choose in Lisbon and generally in Portugal will treat your taste buds. In the south, almonds, figs, and even marzipan are used more. The latter is a fine paste of almonds and sugar, usually used with rose water.
And if you are in Portugal, don’t forget to visit these amazing 25+ cities!
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