Migas
(Migajas)
Migas is a traditional, ancient dish in Spanish and Portuguese cuisine. At its base, it is made from softened bread cooked in fat. Its name, migas, is literally translated to crumbs, referring to its key ingredient - breadcrumbs.
In Spain, the ingredients vary from region to region. Generally, the dish consists of water-soaked bread, garlic, paprika, and olive oil. Regional varieties include ingredients such as spinach, chorizo, and bacon. It is usually served as an appetizer before the main meal.
In Portugal, migas is made with wheat or corn bread crumbs, garlic, and olive oil. Regional varieties of the dish include ingredients such as asparagus, tomatoes, coriander, kale, beans, or rice, and it is served as a side dish to numerous meat-based main dishes.
Although migas is a highly caloric meal, it is often praised as great winter food that is extremely flavorful and easy to prepare.
Recipe variations
Authentic Spanish Meat Migas
READY IN 20minAdapted from Alimentacion.es, the official website of Spain’s Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Food and Environment, this recipe is the classic version of the Spanish migas made from leftover bread and stew.
Andalusian Migas
READY IN 40minThe following recipe describes the method of preparing migas in Andalusia, a southern Spanish region, where they add bacon and chorizo sausages.
Portuguese Migas in Alentejo Style
READY IN 35minThe southern Portuguese region of Alentejo is home to this version of migas, whose main characteristic is that it's prepared by sautéing wheat bread in pork fat. The spare ribs and pork loin are marinated overnight, then browned and pan-fried the following day together with bacon. The old wheat bread is then crushed and fried in the rendered fat. Serve the meat and the fried breadcrumbs on a large platter.
Migas Authentic recipe
Adapted from Alimentacion.es, the official website of Spain’s Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Food and Environment, this recipe is the classic version of the Spanish migas made from leftover bread and stew.
WHERE TO EAT The best Migas in the world (according to food experts)
