Meats and Oven

Espetada madeirense

Chunks of meat seasoned with garlic, bay leaf, and salt, grilled on a skewer.

RegionMadeira
DifficultyEasy
Total time40 min
Servings4 servings
Photo of Espetada madeirense - traditional Portuguese recipe
Photo of the traditional Portuguese recipe.

Editorial content from Empório Portugal. Traditional recipes may vary by region, family, and cook.

About the recipe

Espetada madeirense is one of the most well-known dishes from Madeira, traditionally associated with bay leaf and grilled meat.

The recipe is simple, but it depends on good meat, strong heat, and direct seasoning.

Ingredients

  • 1 kg of beef in large cubes
  • 4 crushed garlic cloves
  • Bay leaves
  • Coarse salt
  • Pepper
  • Olive oil optional
  • Fried corn to serve

Preparation method

  1. Season the meat with garlic, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
  2. Skewer the cubes on skewers.
  3. Heat the grill or barbecue.
  4. Grill over high heat, turning to brown evenly.
  5. Let rest for a few minutes.
  6. Serve with fried corn or salad.

Tips from Empório Portugal

  • Large cubes retain juiciness.
  • Bay leaf is an important part of the aroma.
  • Do not overdo the cooking time.

Possible substitutions in Brazil

  • Use sirloin, flank steak, or rump in cubes.
  • Metal skewers can replace bay leaf skewers.

Pairing

Young red wine or sparkling water. Content intended for those over 18 years old. Drink in moderation.

Editorial note from Empório Portugal

This recipe is part of the editorial curation of Empório Portugal, developed from Portuguese culinary tradition. Like all traditional recipes, it may vary according to region, family, and cook.

Do you have a family Portuguese recipe?

Send it to the Empório Portugal community. Submitted recipes undergo review before any publication.

Submit my recipe

Letter from Portugal

Receive recipes, guides, and Portuguese stories.

An editorial selection from Empório Portugal, without exaggerated promises and with respect for your privacy.

Subscribe to newsletter