Alheira - Portuguese Smoked Sausage

Alheira - Portuguese Smoked Sausage

Alheira is a beloved traditional Portuguese smoked sausage that reflects the rich culinary heritage of Portugal. Historically, it was created by the Jewish community in Portugal as a clever way to disguise the absence of pork from their diets. This lighter version uses tender minced chicken and rustic bread, seasoned to perfection with aromatic spices, resulting in a deliciously savory and slightly smoky flavor. Serve it sliced with crusty bread, olives, or a fresh salad for a delightful meal that transports you to the sun-soaked streets of Lisbon.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Minced chicken breast (1 pound)
  • Bread (preferably crusty, day-old) (2 slices, soaked in water and squeezed dry)
  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
  • Paprika (1 tablespoon)
  • Salt (1 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Fresh parsley (optional) (2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish))
  • Lemon wedges (optional) (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced chicken, soaked and squeezed bread, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into a sausage shape, about 6 inches long, and wrap tightly in aluminum foil, twisting the ends to secure.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the wrapped sausage carefully to the pan.
  4. Cook the sausage for about 30 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking and browning on all sides.
  5. Once cooked through, remove the sausage from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before unwrapping.
  6. Slice the sausage into rounds and serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and accompanied by lemon wedges for an added zesty touch.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Cook Time: 30 minutes • Calories: 290 • Fat: 15g • Carbs: 10g • Protein: 30g • Sodium: 450mg • Sugar: 1g