Authentic Francesinha Recipe: The Pride of Porto

This recipe (Authentic Francesinha Recipe) recreates the true Francesinha experience, capturing its indulgent, iconic flavors. Thick layers of cured meats, melted cheese, and a rich, savory sauce come together in this masterpiece of Portuguese cuisine.

Ingredients

For the Sandwich:

• 2 slices of thick white bread
• 1 slice of cured ham
• 1 smoked sausage (linguiça or chorizo, sliced in half lengthwise)
• 1 grilled steak (thin, tender, and seasoned)
• 4 slices of melty cheese (like Gouda, Emmental, or Edam)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup tomato paste or puree
• 1/2 cup chicken or beef stock
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings and Sides:

• 1 fried egg (for the top of the sandwich)
• French fries, served on the side

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and garlic; sauté until golden and fragrant.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, stock, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, paprika, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
4. Let it simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Remove the bay leaf and blend the sauce with a hand blender for a smooth consistency.

Assemble the Sandwich

1. Toast the slices of bread lightly to ensure they don’t become soggy.
2. Layer one slice with cured ham, smoked sausage, and grilled steak.
3. Place the second slice of bread on top, then cover the sandwich entirely with slices of cheese, including the sides.

Bake the Sandwich

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the assembled sandwich on an oven-safe dish and bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Finish and Serve

1. Pour the warm sauce generously over the sandwich, allowing it to soak in.
2. Top with a fried egg, if desired, and serve with crispy French fries on the side.

Why This Recipe is Authentic

• Traditional Ingredients: Cured ham, linguiça sausage, and beer-infused sauce are hallmarks of Francesinha.
• Rich Sauce: The bold, savory sauce is the star, faithfully recreated with beer and Portuguese flavors.
• True Presentation: Topped with melted cheese, optional fried egg, and served with fries—this is Francesinha at its finest.

Authentic Francesinha Recipe isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a cultural icon and a culinary adventure. By following this authentic recipe, you’ll experience the full indulgence of Porto’s beloved dish. Whether enjoyed at home or as a centerpiece for a gathering, Francesinha promises to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.