Cristiano Ronaldo, the international football legend, is not only known for his incredible sporting abilities but also for his disciplined and meticulous approach to maintaining his physical fitness. As an athlete, Ronaldo understands the importance of consuming a well-balanced and nutritious diet to fuel his performance on the field. Despite his commitment to healthy eating, he does have a few favorite dishes that he enjoys indulging in from time to time. Let’s explore some of Ronaldo’s favorite meals.
1. Bacalhau à Brás (Portuguese Salted Cod Fish): Being proud of his Portuguese heritage, Ronaldo has often professed his love for the traditional Portuguese dish Bacalhau à Brás. This savory dish consists of salted codfish, thinly sliced fried potatoes, onions, scrambled eggs, black olives, and parsley. It is a flavorsome and hearty meal that satisfies the palate.
2. Medialunas con Jamón y Queso (Argentinian Croissants with Ham and Cheese): Ronaldo has an affinity for Argentinian cuisine, and one of his guilty pleasures is enjoying Medialunas con Jamón y Queso. These buttery, crescent-shaped croissants are filled with savory ham and cheese, making them a delightful treat for breakfast or brunch. Although not the healthiest option, Ronaldo occasionally treats himself to these delectable pastries.
3. Polvo à Lagareiro (Portuguese Octopus): Another favorite of Ronaldo’s from his Portuguese roots is Polvo à Lagareiro. This dish features tender octopus that is cooked with olive oil, garlic, and served with roasted potatoes. The octopus is traditionally grilled or baked until it achieves a delightful smoky flavor. Ronaldo’s choice of this dish showcases his preference for seafood and his connection to his cultural roots.
4. Espetada (Portuguese Meat Skewers): Ronaldo is known to appreciate the succulent flavors of Espetada, a traditional meat skewer dish from Portugal’s Madeira Island. Typically, chunks of marinated beef or pork are skewered onto large bay leaves before being grilled over an open flame. The result is tender and aromatic meat that is bursting with authentic Portuguese flavors.
5. Arroz con Pollo (Spanish Chicken and Rice): As a global superstar, Ronaldo has spent a significant part of his career in Spain, where he tasted and enjoyed the diverse Spanish cuisine. Arroz con Pollo, a classic Spanish dish, is one of his go-to favorites. This flavorful and comforting meal combines chicken, rice, saffron, bell peppers, peas, and various spices. The combination of ingredients creates a colorful and aromatic dish that is not only delicious but also satisfying.
It’s important to note that while Ronaldo enjoys these dishes, he does so in moderation. To maintain his athletic performance, he follows a strict diet plan that emphasizes lean protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. These occasional indulgences serve as rewards for his hard work and dedication, as well as a way to connect with his cultural heritage and explore different culinary experiences.
In conclusion, Cristiano Ronaldo’s favorite meals include Bacalhau à Brás, Medialunas con Jamón y Queso, Polvo à Lagareiro, Espetada, and Arroz con Pollo. These dishes allow him to savor unique flavors from Portugal, Argentina, and Spain, showcasing his appreciation for diverse cuisines.