Experience the essence of Portugal with our genuine Bifana recipe or Pork Sandwiches ! Tender pork seasoned with garlic and spices, served in a soft bread roll.

A beloved Portuguese sandwich offering rich flavors with every bite. Ideal for any mealtime craving, simple to prepare and utterly delicious.

Ingredients:

  - 1 lb (450 g) pork loin, thinly sliced

  - 4 Portuguese bread rolls (or any crusty rolls)

  - 4 cloves garlic, minced

  - 1 cup white wine

  - 2 tablespoons olive oil

  - 1 tablespoon paprika

  - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  - 1 teaspoon salt

  - 1 teaspoon black pepper

  - 1 bay leaf

  - 1 lemon (juiced)

  - Optional: piri-piri sauce or hot sauce for extra heat

Instructions:

Marinate the Pork:

1-In a bowl, mix the minced garlic, white wine, olive oil, paprika, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, bay leaf, and lemon juice.

2-Add the thinly sliced pork loin to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the marinade.

3-Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for a more intense flavor.

Cook the Pork:

1-Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2-Remove the pork slices from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and cook them in the hot skillet until they are browned and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

3-Once all the pork slices are cooked, return them to the skillet along with the reserved marinade.

4-Bring the marinade to a simmer and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.

Assemble the Bifanas:

1-Slice the bread rolls open, keeping one side attached.

2-Place a generous amount of the cooked pork slices into each roll, drizzling a bit of the sauce from the skillet over the meat.

3-Optionally, add piri-piri sauce or hot sauce for extra heat.

Serve:

1-Serve the Bifana sandwiches hot, with extra sauce on the side if desired.

2-Enjoy with a cold Portuguese beer or a glass of white wine for an authentic experience.

Tips:

1-For a traditional touch, serve the Bifanas with a side of pickled vegetables or a simple green salad.

2-You can also grill the bread rolls for a few minutes to add extra crunch.

Nutritional Values :

1 lb (450 g) pork loin, thinly sliced:

  - Calories: 748

  - Protein: 123 g

  - Fat: 20 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Fiber: 0 g

benefits :

  - Excellent source of high-quality protein, crucial for muscle repair and growth.

  - Rich in essential vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, zinc, and phosphorus, supporting overall health and metabolism.

  - Provides essential amino acids necessary for various bodily functions.

4 Portuguese bread rolls (or any crusty rolls):

  - Calories: 800 (200 per roll, can vary depending on size)

  - Protein: 24 g

  - Fat: 4 g

  - Carbohydrates: 160 g

  - Fiber: 8 g

benefits :

  - Good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for daily activities and exercise.

  - Contains dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.

  - Enriched with B vitamins and minerals like iron, contributing to overall nutrient intake.

4 cloves garlic, minced:

  - Calories: 18

  - Protein: 0.8 g

  - Fat: 0.1 g

  - Carbohydrates: 4 g

  - Fiber: 0.2 g

benefits :

  - Known for its potential health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.

  - Contains compounds like allicin, which may help lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

  - Rich in antioxidants that protect cells from oxidative damage.

1 cup white wine:

  - Calories: 121

  - Protein: 0.2 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 3.8 g

  - Fiber: 0 g

benefits :

  - Contains antioxidants like resveratrol, which may have heart-protective effects and promote longevity.

  - Moderate consumption may be linked to improved heart health and reduced risk of certain chronic diseases.

  - Provides some vitamins and minerals, albeit in small amounts.

2 tablespoons olive oil:

  - Calories: 239

 - Protein: 0 g

  - Fat: 27 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Fiber: 0 g

benefits :

  - Rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and may help lower bad cholesterol levels.

  - Contains antioxidants that fight inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

  - May contribute to better cognitive function and overall brain health.

1 tablespoon paprika:

  - Calories: 19

  - Protein: 0.9 g

  - Fat: 1 g

  - Carbohydrates: 3.7 g

  - Fiber: 2.3 g

benefits :

  - Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and aid in weight management.

  - Rich in vitamin C, supporting immune function and collagen production for healthy skin.

  - Has anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate pain and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard:

  - Calories: 9

  - Protein: 0.3 g

  - Fat: 0.6 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.6 g

  - Fiber: 0.1 g

benefits :

  - Low in calories and fat, making it a healthier condiment choice compared to others.

  - Contains antioxidants like selenium and flavonoids, which may have anti-cancer properties.

  - Adds flavor without adding significant calories or sodium.

1 teaspoon salt:

  - Calories: 0

  - Protein: 0 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Fiber: 0 g

benefits :

  - Electrolyte Balance: Salt contains sodium, which is essential for maintaining the body's fluid balance, blood pressure, and nerve function.

  - Muscle Function: Sodium in salt helps with muscle contraction and prevents cramps, making it important for athletes.

  - Digestive Health: Salt can stimulate the production of digestive juices, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption.

1 teaspoon black pepper:

  - Calories: 6

  - Protein: 0.3 g

  - Fat: 0.1 g

  - Carbohydrates: 1.5 g

  - Fiber: 0.6 g

benefits :

  - Essential for flavor enhancement and seasoning in cooking.

  - Sodium, when consumed in moderation, helps maintain fluid balance and nerve function.

  - Black pepper contains piperine, which may improve nutrient absorption and digestion.

1 bay leaf:

  - Calories: 2

  - Protein: 0.1 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.5 g

  - Fiber: 0.3 g

benefits :

  - Contains vitamins A, C, and B-complex vitamins, contributing to overall health and immune function.

  - Has antimicrobial properties that may help fight infections and promote gut health.

  - Adds aromatic flavor to dishes without adding calories or sodium.

1 lemon (juiced):

  - Calories: 4

  - Protein: 0.1 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 1.3 g

  - Fiber: 0.1 g

benefits :

  - Rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts immune function and collagen synthesis.

  - Helps improve digestion and alkalizes the body, promoting detoxification and liver health.

  - Adds tangy flavor to dishes while providing a burst of freshness.

These values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand, preparation methods, and specific ingredients used.