Portuguese Style Piri Piri
A traditional spicy flavour named for the east African “bird’s eye” chili pepper, which we grind with fresh lemon and then simmer with a traditional blend of spices.
Piri piri is the name of the spicy bird’s eye chili pepper that was very popular in the ex-Portuguese colony of Mozambique. Foodies say that this chili pepper is popular due to its ability to evoke special flavours in fish and chicken and the fact that it creates a truly addictive experience when used in sauces, marinades, and bastes.
Piri piri can be found throughout Africa, Asia, Australia, and across South America, although it originates from African countries, particularly Mozambique and Angola. Mozambique was colonized by the Portuguese in the fifteenth century, yet the influences of the Portuguese are still evident today. Initially, Portuguese explorers were attracted to the spice route (the area ranging from Cape of Good Hope all the way to India) due to the wealth and immense opportunities in this area. It’s no surprise that the spices discovered centuries ago are still large players in Portuguese cuisine today. Along the African coast, in the capital of Lourenco Marques, the pastel-coloured buildings, boardwalk cafes, bullfights, elaborate table settings, and tile floors remind visitors of Portugal. The Portuguesse sense of adventure is showcased by the use of heated chili peppers and spices used in many fresh meat and seafood dishes and the bright colours used in elaborate table settings.
At the dinner table, enjoy this lively meal in style!
The Travelling Butcher suggests setting your table with rich reds, deep terracotta, and lively greens, to truly bring out that sense of adventure and discovery of Portuguese travelers exploring the different tastes of southern Africa and bringing them back home to the beautiful coast towns of Portugal.