In Portuguese Christmas tradition, the Christmas Eve family meal is called Consoada.
Consoada is traditionally eaten on the evening of 24 December, often after or around the family’s religious observances. A classic version features salted cod, known as bacalhau, with potatoes, greens, and other vegetable dishes. Regional menus vary, and families may add seafood, sweets, and local specialties.
The word refers to the Christmas Eve supper rather than one particular ingredient. In many Portuguese-speaking communities, the meal is an important gathering for extended family, followed by midnight worship or the opening of gifts. Portugal’s Christmas food customs therefore combine Catholic observance with regional culinary traditions.
Bacalhau is the famous fish commonly served at Consoada, but it is not the name of the meal. Bolo Rei is a festive fruit-and-nut cake associated with the Christmas season, while folar is a separate Portuguese celebratory bread.