In this revised and updated edition of her authoritative and fascinating book Edite Vieira traces the rich legacy of her country's culinary excellence from medieval through to modern times lacing it with history and anecdote and a collection of authentically delicious recipes. From simple and wholesome peasant fare to elaborate celebratory meals, ingredients include salt cod (bacalhau) in all its myriad variations, cumin and oranges are both remnants of the voyaging past, green coriander is the main flavouring herb; essentially the food is the food of a country which grows grapes, peppers, melons, quinces and apples, and few other countries have such a repertoire of pork dishes. Fresh pork is much in evidence as well as ham (presunto), pork and red pepper sausages (chouricos) and black pudding (morcela), all foods very much in present vogue.

Edite Vieira was born in Portugal. She moved to London where she worked for the BBC as a radio journalist and programme announcer. She was a cultural affairs correspondent for a number of magazines but is most highly regarded as the author of many books including a collection of poetry and for her food writing and recipe books. She is also the winner of a Gourmand World Cookbook Award.