Olá! I’m Luís here again. Many people know us for our wines, cured meats and hampers, but some of the best products in our range are actually the simple and everyday staples.
These are the things we use regularly in Portuguese kitchens, not just for big occasions or entertaining guests, but in day-to-day cooking.
Olive oil, rice, beans and sardines are at the heart of many of our meals. They’re affordable, useful and full of flavour. Add a bottle of piri-piri sauce or a tin of seasoned fish and suddenly a basic meal becomes something with character.
Here are a few Portuguese pantry items we recommend keeping in your cupboard with some simple ways to use them.
1. Olive Oil – For Cooking and Finishing
In Portugal, olive oil is used every day. We cook with it, dress salads with it and drizzle it over soups, vegetables or even toast. A good olive oil doesn’t need to be expensive, but it should be smooth, clean and made with care.
Try: Gallo Portuguese Olive Oil
- Mild and balanced flavour
- Great for frying, roasting or finishing dishes
- Use in salad dressings or spooned over grilled fish
Everyday cooking tip: Warm a little olive oil with chopped garlic and pour it over cooked greens or boiled potatoes for a simple, flavourful side.
Gallo Olive oil available in 750ml or 3 Litres
2. Beans – The Base for Stews, Salads and Soups
Beans are used in many Portuguese recipes. They’re filling, inexpensive and versatile. From feijoada (bean stew) to chilled summer salads, a tin of beans can be the base of a full meal.
Try: Compal White Beans and Red Kidney Beans
- Ready to use
- Good in hot or cold dishes
- Rich in fibre and protein
White Beans available in 845g can or 6 cans x 410g
Red Kidney Beans available in 845g can or 6 cans x 410g
Everyday cooking tip: Mix white beans with chopped tomato, red onion, parsley and a little olive oil for an easy salad or side dish.
3. Rice – A Staple for Every Meal
Portuguese meals often include rice. Whether it’s with grilled fish, tomato sauce or baked in the oven with meat, it’s one of the most used ingredients in our kitchens.
Try: Carolino Rice
- Traditionally grown in Portugal
- Absorbs flavour well
- Ideal for soups, stews and baked dishes
Everyday cooking tip: For a quick weekday meal, cook carolino rice with garlic, onion and a splash of white wine. Add in beans or leftover chicken for a simple one-pot dish.
4. Piri-Piri Sauce – A Kick of Heat
Piri-piri sauce is made from small, spicy chilli peppers. It’s often used in marinades or served on the side for those who like a little extra heat.
- Medium to hot heat
- Tangy, not too vinegary
- Works well with grilled meats, eggs or even chips
Everyday cooking tip: Mix a spoon of piri-piri sauce into mayonnaise or yoghurt for a quick dipping sauce for vegetables or fried fish.
5. Sardines – Tinned, But Full of Flavour
Tinned fish is a staple in Portuguese homes. It’s affordable, lasts well in the cupboard and packs a lot of flavour. Sardines are one of the most popular choices.
Try: Bom Petisco Sardines in Olive oil
- High quality and responsibly sourced
- Packed in olive oil, ready to eat
- Great on toast, in salads or stirred into pasta
Everyday cooking tip: Toast a slice of bread, spread with a little tomato purée, top with sardines and chopped herbs. Quick and satisfying.
Flavour That Fits Every Day
Portuguese cooking isn’t complicated. It’s about good ingredients used well. When your pantry is stocked with quality staples, it’s easier to cook meals that feel satisfying and special.
At Divino, we choose products that we use at home — not just for gifts, but for everyday life. If you want to bring more flavour to your meals, start with the basics. Olive oil, rice, beans and a tin of sardines go a long way.
Browse all pantry essentials at Divino.je
Saúde!