Experience the irresistible flavors of Portuguese cuisine with this classic Bifana recipe! Made with tender pork loin marinated in a savory blend of garlic, white wine, paprika, and bay leaf, these juicy cutlets are pan-seared to perfection and tucked into warm, crusty rolls. A squeeze of fresh lemon adds a vibrant citrus kick, while optional toppings like mustard or piri-piri sauce let you customize each bite. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack, Bifanas are a deliciously simple way to enjoy Portuguese street food at home. Whether you're hosting a gathering or craving something flavorful, this quick recipe delivers unforgettable taste in just under an hour!
Slice the pork loin into thin cutlets of approximately 1/4 inch thickness.
In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, white wine, paprika, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
Place the pork cutlets in the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Allow the meat to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for better flavor.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
Remove the pork from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and place the cutlets in the skillet.
Cook the pork cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the cooked pork from the skillet and keep warm.
Warm the crusty rolls in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes.
Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the cooked pork cutlets to add a burst of freshness.
Assemble the bifana by placing a portion of the pork inside each warmed roll.
Serve immediately, optionally with mustard or piri-piri sauce for added heat.
Calories |
2401 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 120.6 g | 155% | |
| Saturated Fat | 33.6 g | 168% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 395 mg | 132% | |
| Sodium | 3886 mg | 169% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 128.4 g | 47% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.2 g | 26% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.7 g | ||
| Protein | 157.1 g | 314% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 239 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 12.7 mg | 71% | |
| Potassium | 2658 mg | 57% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.