One of the most popular dishes in Portugal is Bitoque, a steak dish you can get in any traditional Portuguese tasca.
Bitoque origin story
The invention of the Bitoque is disputed. Some say it was brought to Lisbon by a Spanish man from Galicia. Others say it first appeared in a humble tavern near Sintra where a man named Manuel Dias Prego first started serving it. But, Prego’s version is slightly different (more on that later).
Today, Bitoque, or Prego are popular throughout Portugal, though you will mostly see Prego served in the north of the country and Bitoque as you go further south, though this isn’t a hard a fast rule.
What is Bitoque
Simply, Bitoque is a fried steak. Usually an inexpensive cut like a rump is tenderized with a mallet and fried in a combination of oil, lard, and butter. Sometimes garlic and bay is added.
The best Bitoque might be simmered in a spicy white wine and garlic sauce. The steak is then served with a side of French fries, rice, and a simple green salad.
Prego, on the other hand, is served on bread with a mustard sauce.
Both Bitoque and Prego and topped with a fried egg.
Variations include ham and cheese tucked between the meat and egg.
Where to get Bitoque
Any Tasca (a humble cafe in Portugal) worth its salt with have Bitoque on the menu.
There’s a place in the Campo de Ourique called O Bitoque. When you name yourself after a dish, you know it’s going to be good.
My favorite spot for a Bitoque in Lisbon is Minha Avó, a little vegan restaurant in the Marques De Pombal neighborhood (video). The vegan Bitoque is made with their homemade seitan, simmered in a delicious white wine sauce with garlic and served with the required French fries and rice. The “egg” is a vegan version with the white made from chickpea flour and yellow from pumpkin. Yum!
About the Author
Brent Petersen is the Editor-in-Chief of Destination Eat Drink. He currently resides in Setubal, Portugal. Brent has written the novel “Truffle Hunt” (Eckhartz Press) and the short story collection “That Bird.” He’s also written dozens of foodie travel guides to cities around the world on Destination Eat Drink, including an in-depth eating and drinking guide to Portugal. Brent’s podcast, also called Destination Eat Drink, is available on all major podcasting platforms.
