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Petiscos
By Carlos Prata
The Portuguese tradition of small shared plates, similar to Spanish tapas but with a distinctly Portuguese character.
Petiscos are Portugal's answer to small plates culture — modest, flavourful dishes meant to be shared over drinks. Rooted in tasca culture, common petiscos include tremoços (lupini beans), peixinhos da horta (fried green beans), and caracóis (snails).
The petisco tradition is experiencing a renaissance, with modern petiscarias elevating humble dishes while preserving their convivial spirit. A proper petisco session unfolds slowly, with dishes arriving as ready, accompanied by wine or beer.