Bifana
Portuguese Pork Sandwich
A beloved Portuguese street food classic, the Bifana features thinly sliced pork marinated in a flavorful blend of white wine, garlic, and paprika, then quickly cooked and served in a crusty roll, often with a generous smear of mustard. The bread is typically dipped in the flavorful pan juices for an extra burst of taste.
🧂 Ingredients
- 8 Thin pork steaks (e.g., pork loin or shoulder, sliced very thinly)(Aim for slices about 2-3mm thick. If not pre-sliced, you can partially freeze the pork for easier slicing.)
- 100 ml Dry white wine(A crisp, dry white wine like Vinho Verde is traditional.)
- 4 cloves Garlic
- 1 tbsp Sweet paprika(Smoked paprika can also be used for a different flavor profile.)
- 1/2 tsp Salt(Or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper(Freshly ground, or to taste)
- 1-2 tbsp Olive oil or neutral cooking oil
- 4 Crusty rolls or Portuguese 'pão' (bread rolls)(Something sturdy enough to hold the pork and juices.)
- to taste Portuguese mustard (or Dijon mustard)(Optional, for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the white wine and stir to create a paste.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 2
Marinate the pork: Add the thin pork steaks to the marinade. Toss gently to ensure each piece is coated. For best flavor, let marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours. If short on time, you can proceed directly to cooking after coating.
⏱️ 30 minutes (optional) - 3
Heat the pan: Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it shimmer.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Cook the pork: Add the marinated pork steaks to the hot skillet in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the pork is cooked through and slightly caramelized. The pork should be tender and no longer pink in the center.
⏱️ 5-6 minutes - 5
Deglaze and create sauce: Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the pan and set aside. If there are any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, add a splash more white wine (about 2-3 tbsp) and scrape them up with a wooden spoon. Let this sauce simmer for about 1 minute to reduce slightly.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 6
Prepare the rolls: While the pork rests, slice the crusty rolls horizontally. You can lightly toast them if desired.
⏱️ 1 minute - 7
Assemble the sandwiches: For a traditional Bifana, dip the cut side of each roll half briefly into the warm pan juices. Spread mustard on the bottom half of each roll, if using. Place 2 pork steaks on each bottom roll half. Spoon any remaining pan sauce over the pork.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 8
Serve: Top with the other half of the roll and serve immediately.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For authentic flavor, use thinly sliced pork shoulder or loin. If you can't find pre-sliced, freeze the meat for 30-45 minutes until firm, then slice thinly.
- ✓Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the pork. Cooking in batches ensures the pork sears rather than steams, leading to better flavor and texture.
- ✓The quick dip of the bread in the pan juices is key to soaking up the delicious flavors. Be quick so the bread doesn't become soggy.
- ✓Bifana is best enjoyed fresh and hot, traditionally accompanied by a cold beer or a glass of Vinho Verde.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of piri-piri sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Top with a slice of melted cheese (like mild cheddar or Portuguese cheese) after cooking the pork.
- Serve with a side of fries or a simple green salad.