How to make Peixinhos da Horta

Why cooks start here

Peixinhos da Horta is cooked the way the Minho and Lisboa cooks it — good olive oil used without counting, salt judged by hand, and no fuss about the plate. This is the home version, written down the way a Portuguese family cook actually puts it on the table.

Peixinhos da Horta, meaning 'little fish from the garden,' traces back to the Minho and Lisboa regions, where it transforms simple green beans into a beloved staple. Traditionally, it is a dish of everyday comfort, making use of good olive oil and the freshest vegetables, celebrating the bounty of home gardens. Portuguese families enjoy it as a satisfying snack or a side dish, often without fanfare, letting the flavors speak for themselves. The crispy, golden batter encases tender green beans, offering a delightful contrast of textures. A whisper of sweet paprika mingles with the subtle earthiness of the beans, all elevated by a sprinkle of sea salt. Enjoy them hot, fresh from the pan, as the flavors are at their peak when the batter is still crunchy and the beans retain their snap.