In Portugal, Easter is a time for reunions and comforting flavours. At the table, you’ll find folar (a traditional Easter bread), roast goat, and, of course, chocolate eggs. A good wine or liqueur is almost a must to accompany the meal. But just like in Portugal, other parts of the world also celebrate Easter with unique culinary traditions. Discover some typical Easter dishes from different countries — and how to pair them with Portuguese wines.
Babka Wielkanocna – Poland
It may be hard to pronounce, but it’s easy to love. Babka Wielkanocna is a sweet and fluffy cake, flavoured with rum or vanilla, and topped with icing or powdered sugar. The name comes from the Polish word for “grandmother” and it’s a staple at Polish Easter tables.
Pair with: Quinta da Corrieira Carcavelos or Luiz Costa Pinot Noir Chardonnay Sparkling Wine.
Easter Ham – United States
This dish features a slow-roasted leg of pork, glazed with a caramelised crust of brown sugar and mustard. A much-loved Easter tradition in America, it’s perfect for sharing with family.
Pair with: Curral Teles Epsilon Red or Quinta das Cerejeiras Rosé.
Cozonac – Bulgaria and Romania
Cozonac is a fluffy sweet bread filled with walnuts, cocoa, or candied fruit. Aromatic and comforting, it’s a classic Easter treat in Romania and Bulgaria — a real temptation for lovers of traditional sweets.
Pair with: Fanal Fajã das Contreiras Madeira Wine or Pasmados Garrafeira White.
Fanesca – Ecuador
During Holy Week, Ecuadorians prepare Fanesca, a rich soup made with salted cod and twelve legumes — one for each apostle. It’s traditionally served with boiled egg, fried plantain, and aromatic herbs.
Pair with: Quinta da Lagoalva Grand Reserve Fernão Pires White or 1808 Field Blend White.
Pashka – Russia
Made with cottage cheese (tvorog), Pashka is shaped like a pyramid to represent Christ’s tomb. It’s often decorated with dried fruits and nuts.
Pair with: Horácio Simões Heritage Moscatel or Quinta da Bela Vista Carcavelos.
Colomba Pasquale – Italy
Similar to Christmas panettone, Colomba Pasquale is a dove-shaped cake symbolising peace and the Holy Spirit. It’s made from a light dough enriched with candied fruit and topped with almonds and sugar.
Pair with: Ramilo Rosé Brut Sparkling Wine or Camaleão Alvarinho Sparkling Wine.
Lamala – Alsace (France)
Lamala is a lamb-shaped cake, a symbol of Christ as the “Lamb of God.” It’s traditionally served dusted with powdered sugar during Easter celebrations.
Pair with: Pacheca Late Harvest or Lagoalva Late Harvest.
Wishing you a Happy Easter, filled with flavour and great wines!
