Espetada facts for kids
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| Course | Main |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | Portugal |
| Region or state | Madeira |
| Serving temperature | Hot |
| Main ingredients | Meat |
Espetada is a super yummy Portuguese dish! It's all about cooking food on long sticks called skewers. You might also hear it called espetinho in Brazil. It's a classic meal that's loved by many.
Contents
What is Espetada?
Espetada is a special way of cooking where pieces of food are put onto a skewer. Then, they are grilled over hot coals or wood. This gives the food a delicious smoky flavor. It's a very popular dish in Portuguese cuisine.
Different Kinds of Espetada
In Portugal, you can find many types of espetadas.
- They often use different kinds of meat.
- Beef and pork are very common choices.
- Sometimes, people use turkey or chicken too.
- You might even find espetadas made with squid or fish, like monkfish.
Chefs often add colorful veggies between the meat pieces. These can include bell peppers, onions, and even chouriço (a type of sausage).
What to Eat with Espetada
Espetada is usually served with tasty side dishes.
- Most often, you'll get white rice or potatoes.
- A fresh salad is also a common addition.
- These sides help to make it a full and satisfying meal.
Espetada from Madeira
The Madeira region of Portugal has its own special way to make espetada.
- They use beef cut into cubes.
- The meat is put onto skewers made from bay laurel branches. This adds a unique flavor!
- Before cooking, the meat is seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic, and bay leaf.
- It's then grilled over hot coals or wood chips until it's perfectly cooked.
Special Sides in Madeira
In Madeira, two popular foods are eaten with espetada:
- Bolo do caco: This is a type of flatbread that's often served warm with garlic butter. It's great for soaking up the meat juices.
- Milho frito: These are fried squares or triangles made from a firm cornmeal mixture (like polenta). They are crispy and delicious!
How Espetada is Served
Sometimes, espetada is served in a really cool way. The skewer hangs from a special hook on a stand. This makes for a fun and impressive presentation when it comes to your table!
Images for kids
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Grilling espetada at a Portuguese community day in Petersham
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Espetada before being cooked
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Cooking in ember
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Espetada after being cooked
