Neven Maguire is back on our TV screens tonight at 8pm on RTE with a new seven-part series of his popular Food Trails programmes, returning to Portugal following his highly enjoyable visit there in 2022. This year his travels take him from Porto in the North of Portugal, to the Atlantic island of Madeira. Throughout the series, the Cavan chef meets some of Portugal's most renowned chefs and unique artisan food and drink producers.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Neven revealed that each week he will share one of his own recipes, inspired by his Portuguese Food Trails. "I was delighted to return to Portugal which is an extraordinary country to explore as a chef, and also as a tourist," explained Neven. "From Porto to Coimbra, Sintra, Lisbon and Madeira, I discovered the distinct artisan food and drink of each region, and learned recipes from some of the country’s most talented chefs.
"Not only did we discover even more uniquely Portuguese produce, we met some incredible people who were exceptionally kind and welcoming wherever we travelled. In this new series we also ventured from mainland Portugal to the island of Madeira, a totally new experience for me, with a subtropical climate and cuisine. Throughout the series, I’ve tasted delicious food and drink, learned new cooking techniques and tips, and visited spectacular tourist attractions. Travelling through Portugal has been an enriching experience, and I’m looking forward to sharing it."