Portuguese and Chinese Food Met in Macau
Macau’s food culture has long been overshadowed by the all-conquering Cantonese cuisine across the water in Hong Kong. However, while high-end restaurants have recently put the city on the foodie map, Macau has been a treasure for those knowledgeable about Asian cuisine. Unlike most former colonies, where British, Dutch, or French influences merely added hints of flavor, Macau has created a unique culinary style by merging Southern Chinese and Portuguese ingredients and techniques, resulting in Macanese cuisine.
This distinctive form of cooking seemed to be in decline during the 1990s. Nevertheless, increased appreciation for Macau’s culture and the emergence of outstanding Macanese restaurants have revitalized the culinary scene. Today, the city boasts a thriving food culture with first-class cooking!
What is Macanese Cuisine?
Similar to Cantonese cuisine, Macanese cuisine is heavily based on freshly caught seafood. However, the seafood selection offers a variety of options, including codfish, crab, and sardines. The Portuguese influence is especially prominent in the robust flavors achieved through spices like chili, saffron, and cinnamon. Whereas Cantonese cooking emphasizes freshness and simplicity, Macanese dishes are often slow-baked or roasted to fully develop the spices’ flavors. Moreover, exotic ingredients from Portugal’s former colonies, such as coconut and turmeric, find their way into various dishes.
In terms of meats, chicken and pork are very popular and are typically stewed or slow-cooked to achieve tenderness. The combination of flavors tends to be impressive, with generously portioned dishes often served with just a side salad, all rich in flavor. Furthermore, desserts—often a weaker point in Cantonese cuisine—are a strong suit of Macanese dining. The Macau Egg Tart is a must-try!
What Other Food Can I Get in Macau?
Although Macanese may be regarded as the national cuisine of Macau, many restaurants primarily serve Cantonese dishes, with few featuring authentic Macanese options. To truly experience the flavors of Macau, you’ll need to seek out the select few dedicated Macanese restaurants throughout the city.
In addition to Macanese cuisine, you’ll find some exceptional Portuguese restaurants in Macau offering classic dishes. These establishments excel in serving the best salted cod in Asia, along with wonderful chorizo and chicken prepared in the traditional Piri-Piri style. Most Portuguese restaurants in Macau tend to be upscale, featuring wine lists comparable to those in Lisboa.
