Spanhovas

Spanhovas is a traditional Portuguese dish, particularly popular in the Minho region of Portugal. Its name derives from the word "spanhóis," meaning Spaniards, suggesting a historical connection or influence from Spanish cuisine. The core of the dish consists of pork meat, often pork belly or pork shoulder, which is seasoned and then cooked, typically by frying or roasting. A key element of Spanhouas is the use of rice, which is usually cooked with the pork and its rendered fat, absorbing the rich flavors. The rice is often seasoned with garlic, onions, and sometimes herbs like bay leaf or parsley. The dish is characterized by its savory and hearty nature, with the rice being tender and infused with the taste of the pork. Variations exist, with some recipes incorporating other ingredients or different cooking methods for the pork. Spanhouas is considered a comfort food and is frequently served as a main course, often accompanied by simple green salads or cooked vegetables. It is a reflection of the rustic and flavorful Portuguese culinary heritage, emphasizing the use of readily available ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.