Dish

Francesinha

Francesinha is a hearty and spicy sandwich that is perfect for those who love bold flavors. The bread is typically filled with ham, linguiça, and steak, as well as cheese and a fried egg. The sandwich is then covered in a spicy tomato sauce and served with french fries.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Portuguese cuisine

Sandwich/Wrap› Sandwich

Origins and history

Francesinha is believed to have originated in Porto, Portugal in the 1950s. It was created by a Portuguese immigrant who wanted to create a sandwich that was similar to the French croque-monsieur.

Dietary considerations

Can be made vegetarian by using meat substitutes and omitting cheese and egg

Variations

There are many variations of Francesinha, including ones that use different types of meats, such as chicken or pork. Some variations also use different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or gouda.

Presentation and garnishing

Francesinha is typically served on a plate or in a bowl. It is often garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro.

Tips & Tricks

To make the spicy tomato sauce, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add tomato paste, beer, and hot sauce and simmer until thickened. To make the sandwich easier to eat, cut it into quarters.