Francesinha (Portuguese Steak Sandwich)
A hearty sandwich from Porto layers steak, cured pork, and melted cheese, smothered in a rich tomato‑beer sauce and served with crispy fries.
- Prep
- 20 min
- Cook
- 30 min
- Total
- 50 min
- Serves
- 4
- Difficulty
- Medium
Method
-
Step 1 of 6
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent, then add the garlic and cook another minute.
-
Step 2 of 6
Season the beef steak with salt and pepper, then sear it in the same pan for 2‑3 minutes per side until browned but still pink inside; set aside.
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Step 3 of 6
In the pan, add the linguiça and ham, cooking until lightly crisp, then remove and keep warm with the steak.
-
Step 4 of 6
Melt the butter in a saucepan, stir in the tomato passata, beer, Worcestershire sauce, and piri‑piri if using; simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until thickened, seasoning with salt and pepper.
-
Step 5 of 6
Slice the rolls lengthwise, place a piece of steak, a layer of linguiça, and ham on each, then top with a cheese slice; arrange the sandwiches on a baking tray and broil at 200°C / 400°F (180°C fan) until the cheese melts and bubbles, about 3‑4 minutes.
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Step 6 of 6
Serve each sandwich with a generous ladle of the hot sauce, garnish with chopped parsley and a side of crisp fries.
Notes from the kitchen
If Portuguese cheese is unavailable, substitute with a good melting cheese such as mozzarella or provolone. The sauce can be made ahead and reheated; store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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