Christmas in Oporto
After patiently anticipating my visit to Oporto, the long-awaited moment finally arrived during the first weekend of December, just as the holiday season was poised to unfold. In Spain, this time of year brings forth two significant public holidays: La Constitucion or The Constitution Day on the 6th, and La Inmaculada or Immaculate Conception on the 9th.
Exploring the city during this festive period was truly enchanting. I kicked off my experience by participating in a morning city tour, followed by a delightful lunch near the pier. The afternoon was reserved for another leisurely stroll, and it was during this time that I stumbled upon a captivating scene in the kitchen.
Intrigued, I observed the chef passionately preparing Rabanada, a Portuguese rendition of the classic French toast. The tantalizing aroma of cinnamon wafted through the air, creating an irresistible allure. Before I knew it, I found myself assisting the chef, adding a hands-on and unexpectedly delightful dimension to my Oporto adventure.
Rabanadas are a traditional Portuguese Christmas dessert that is popular in Oporto (Porto) and throughout the country. Rabanadas are similar to French toast and are often enjoyed during the holiday season. These sweet treats are made by soaking slices of bread in a mixture of milk and eggs, then frying or baking them until golden brown. After cooking, the slices are typically coated with sugar and cinnamon, creating a delicious and festive flavor.
The preparation of Rabanadas involves the following steps:
Bread Soaking: Stale bread slices are soaked in a mixture of milk and beaten eggs. The choice of bread can vary, but it's common to use day-old or slightly stale bread to allow it to absorb the liquid mixture without becoming too soggy.
Frying or Baking: The soaked bread slices are then either fried in oil or baked until they are golden and crispy on the outside.
Sugar and Cinnamon Coating: Once cooked, the Rabanadas are coated with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon, adding sweetness and a warm, aromatic flavor to the dish.
Optional Garnishes: Some variations of Rabanadas may include additional toppings or garnishes, such as honey, syrup, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Rabanadas are often served warm and are a comforting and indulgent treat enjoyed by families during the Christmas season. They are a classic part of the Portuguese Christmas table, and each family may have its own variation of the recipe. In Oporto, you can find Rabanadas in local bakeries and restaurants during the holiday season, and many households prepare them as a special Christmas tradition.