Surf Waves, Seafood, and Sizzling Stories: A Ghannouj Gazette Adventure
How I Almost Tamed the Waves and the Tomato Rice: Tales from My Portuguese Odyssey
OCT 09, 2023
Hello, Ghannouj Gang!
Welcome back to the second edition of The Ghannouj Gazette – your weekly Monday morning antidote to those dreary and depressing start-of-the-week blues!
This week, we're jet-setting to Portugal, where I attempted to conquer waves in Nazaré (spoiler alert: the waves didn’t show up), diving headfirst into the enchanting world of 'A Gentleman in Moscow' by Amor Towles (because who needs sleep, right?), and whipping up a storm in the kitchen with my Arroz de Tomatos recipe (inspired by my Portuguese escapades).
But that's not all, folks!
We've got a treasure trove of TV series, podcasts, and song recommendations for our beloved subscribers that are more delightful than a surprise pastel de nata.
Eating My Way Around Portugal: Nazare
In this edition of The Ghannouj Gazette, we're jetting off to the picturesque shores of Nazaré, Portugal, where I had a not-so-successful rendezvous with not-so-record-breaking waves. I may not have conquered them, but the vast stretch of coastline, adorned with sand and rocks, was nothing short of impressive. The highlight of this coastal escapade was undoubtedly ascending the red lighthouse to witness the majestic waves crashing against the rugged cliffs. It's a sight that'll leave you both awestruck and slightly misty-eyed – trust me, the ocean has a way of doing that.
But what's a journey without some culinary discoveries, right? Down by the beach in Nazaré, you'll find a unique tradition of drying fish under the sun. The species of choice for this sunbathing spectacle are horse mackerel, sardines, and octopus, thanks to their abundance in these waters. Picture a sprawling net facing south, where these sea treasures are laid out to dry – like a seafood sunbathing party!
The Red Lighthouse of Nazare
All this beachfront exploration was enough to work up a formidable appetite, and we found ourselves at Taberna D'Adeleida, a cosy little spot known for its pot of Arroz de Marisco. Let me tell you, this dish is like a flavour explosion in your mouth – a tantalizing blend of seafood, rice, and an array of aromatic spices that's nothing short of heavenly. It's the kind of meal that makes you forget all about those stubborn waves you couldn't conquer earlier in the day.
After our coastal adventure in Nazaré, we returned to Porto's charming city for an evening of culinary indulgence. You see, Portugal never disappoints when it comes to food, and Porto is no exception. We found ourselves gravitating back to the neighbourhood of Matosinhos, a place that's earned a special spot in our hearts (and stomachs).
Our night destination was "A Chalandra," a gem of a restaurant that locals and savvy travellers flock to for a memorable seafood feast. We settled in, ready for an unforgettable dinner, and oh boy, did A Chalandra deliver.
The meal started with fried sardines, followed by the best clams I've ever had – plump, juicy, and drenched in a garlic and herb-infused broth that had us sopping up every last drop with crusty bread. Next up was the shrimp, perfectly cooked to tender perfection and seasoned with just the right amount of salt and pepper to let their natural flavours shine.
But the star of the show, without a doubt, was the grilled turbot. This delectable fish was cooked to crispy-skinned perfection, and each bite practically melted in our mouths. It was like a symphony of flavours dancing on our taste buds.
And, of course, we couldn't resist ordering a steaming pot of that irresistible tomato rice once again. It was like a warm hug on a plate, with each grain of rice soaking up the flavours of the sea. The dish makes you want to close your eyes and savour every bite.
Now, let's talk about that house piri piri hot sauce. If you've never experienced the fiery pleasure of Portuguese piri piri sauce, you're in for a treat. A Chalandra's version was like a flavour explosion, starting with a burst of smoky heat and ending with a delightful tanginess that left us reaching for more, even if it did knock our socks off.
So, there you have it – another unforgettable culinary adventure in Portugal, and we're only getting started.
As we wrap up this week's travel section, I'm thrilled to share that our next stop will be the enchanting Douro Valley. Expect vineyards, fine wines, and breathtaking landscapes to leave you in awe.
Arroz de Tomate: A Taste of Portugal
I'm excited to share a delightful culinary gem inspired by my recent adventure through the sun-kissed streets of Portugal. Picture yourself lounging at a seaside cafe in Porto, the air filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the distant sound of Fado music. I fell head over heels in this enchanting atmosphere for Arroz de Tomate – a savoury rice dish like a warm embrace from the Iberian Peninsula.
Arroz de Tomate, or Tomato Rice, captures the essence of Portuguese cuisine with its rich flavours and vibrant colours. It's a dish that celebrates the simplicity of fresh ingredients, making it the perfect canvas for your culinary creativity. So, dust off your apron and prepare to embark on a flavorful journey to Portugal in your kitchen. Served with love, this recipe will transport you to this beautiful country's cobblestone streets and azure coastlines, one spoonful at a time. Vamos cozinhar! (Let's cook!)
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Two cloves of garlic, minced
- One onion, finely chopped
- Four ripe tomatoes, diced (or one can of diced tomatoes)
- 1 cup of long-grain rice (such as Arborio or Jasmine)
- One small red chilli pepper, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 cups of chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large, deep skillet or a wide saucepan. Add the minced garlic, chopped onions, and chilli pepper. Sauté gently until the onions turn translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Toss in the diced tomatoes and stir well. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 5-7 minutes or until the tomatoes break down and release their juices, creating a luscious sauce.
- Stir in the rice, ensuring it's evenly coated with the tomato mixture. Let it sauté for a few minutes, allowing the rice to absorb those lovely tomato flavours.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, add the bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to ensure all the flavours mingle harmoniously.
- Reduce the heat, cover your pan, and let the magic happen. Allow the Arroz de Tomate to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Throughout the cooking process, keep an eye on the rice, and if it looks like it's drying out too quickly, you can add more stock or water as needed.
- Once the rice is cooked to perfection, remove the bay leaf, and give it one final fluff with a fork.
- Arroz de Tomate is traditionally served as a side dish in Portugal, but feel free to enjoy it as a standalone meal. Garnish with fresh herbs, olive oil, or your favourite piri piri sauce for that extra Portuguese flair.
Now, sit back, close your eyes, and savour each mouthful of this fragrant, flavorful Arroz de Tomate. As the delicious aroma fills your kitchen, let it transport you back to the charming streets of Porto, where every meal is a celebration of life and love. Enjoy, my fellow food adventurers, and until next time, bom appetite!
What's on My Screen and in My Ears
As we wind down this edition of The Ghannouj Gazette, let's talk about the small screen and the sweet sounds that have captivated my senses this week.
First up, I'm hooked on "Killing Eve" Season 4. This thrilling series never ceases to amaze, and this season is no exception. The dizzying dance between the two central characters continues to be as fascinating as ever, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves suspense and intrigue.
On the podcast front, I've stumbled upon the strangely captivating "Hooked on Freddie." Brace yourself for a wild, complicated story involving a man and a dolphin. Yes, you read that right! It's a tale that's both bizarre and, at times, uncomfortably intimate, so consider yourself warned. If you're up for a truly unique storytelling experience, give it a listen.
And finally, in music, Big Sam's Ountha has been my go-to track this week. It's a beautifully powerful love song that tugs at the heartstrings and reminds us of the universal language of love.
So, there you have it – a glimpse into my current watchlist and playlist. As always, I encourage you to explore these picks and discover the delightful (and sometimes perplexing) world of entertainment. Until next week, stay curious and keep those screens and speakers buzzing!