Espetada is beef grilled on a skewer, while trinchado is cubes of beef cooked in a rich, garlicky sauce. Both are Portuguese beef favourites, but they are cooked – and eaten – very differently.
What is espetada?
Espetada comes from the island of Madeira. Chunks of beef are seasoned with garlic, salt and bay leaf, threaded onto a skewer and grilled over a flame. It is often served hanging from a stand, with sides such as chips, rice or bread.
What is trinchado?
Trinchado is a saucy dish: cubes of beef are cooked in a sauce of garlic, wine and chilli until tender. It is usually served with a Portuguese roll to mop up the sauce, and is a staple of Portuguese restaurants in South Africa.
Which should I choose?
- Choose espetada if you love chargrilled meat and simple, bold seasoning.
- Choose trinchado if you want something rich and saucy to eat with bread.
Both are on the Grills & Seafood section of the Parreirinha Rapido Illovo menu. WhatsApp us to order for collection.
