Mar Belo•Long Branch, NJ

Portuguese•$30 and under

Portugal: Land of ExplorersIn the 15th Century, Prince Henry the navigator ordered his explorers to bring back to Portugal any exotic fruits, nuts and plants from the new lands. Tomatoes and potatoes are taken to Europe, Brazilian pineapples were introduced to Azores, Brazilian chili peppers grew in Angola, African coffee was transplanted to Brazil.Today the Portuguese fondness for ingredients like cinnamon or curry powder, is also a legacy of his time. The Romans brought wheat and introduced onion, garlic, olives and grapes. Later the Moors were the first to plant rice and introduced figs, planted groves of lemons, oranges and almond trees. Portugal is a seafaring nation with a well-developed fishing industry trading cod since the 15th century.Today, naturally, Portuguese cuisine varies from region to region , but fresh fish and shellfish are found on virtually every menu. BOM APETITE!!!!