8 Tips for Organizing a Magusto as Tradition Requires

Discover 8 tips for organizing a Magusto as tradition requires at home and celebrate São Martinho with friends.

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Mandriola

Discover how to organize a Magusto at home and celebrate São Martinho with friends.

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Good food, red wine, roasted chestnuts, and a great atmosphere. If this is what you imagine when you think of this year’s Magusto (which, by the way, is celebrated on November 11), keep these tips in mind for a fun-filled evening.

1. Choose the location

The choice of location is essential to create the right atmosphere for the Magusto. Think about the available space and the experience you want to provide.

– At home: If you have a yard or terrace, take advantage of it to have the Magusto outdoors, in contact with nature. If you prefer a cozier environment, a comfortable living room is also an excellent option.

– In the park: Choose a public park or garden to set up a small picnic with traditional delicacies. Don’t forget to check if it’s allowed to make a fire or use grills (at this time of year, it usually isn’t a problem but confirm).

– Cellar or wine cellar: Did you know you can rent a cellar or wine cellar to celebrate São Martinho? This setting provides a unique experience, surrounded by barrels of wine and aromas that perfectly complement the moment.

2. Define a theme for the Magusto

To make the party even more fun and memorable, unleash your imagination and choose a theme. If you’re out of ideas, here are some suggestions:

– Medieval Magusto: Decorate the space with garlands and wooden tables. Ask guests to wear clothing inspired by the Middle Ages.

– Country Magusto: Focus on a rustic atmosphere, with straw, wicker baskets, and checkered tablecloths.

– Fantasy Magusto: For a more “Hollywood” touch, choose a movie or series and prepare the decoration and menu accordingly. Guests can dress up as their favorite characters.

3. Decorate the Space

There are some essential elements to create the perfect atmosphere.

– Lighting: You can choose lanterns, candles, or other lights that make the space cozier.

– Natural elements: Don’t forget to spread a bit of the season’s spirit—dried leaves, pumpkins, chestnuts, and pinecones.

– Table: A centerpiece with chestnuts and candles is a great idea.

4. Prepare the Chestnuts

Chestnuts are essential for a Magusto and can be prepared in two main ways:

– In the oven: Make a shallow longitudinal cut in each chestnut, place them in a pot with a handful of salt, add hot water, and let it boil for 5 to 10 minutes. Then, drain the water, place the chestnuts on a serving dish, add another handful of salt, mix, and put them in the oven at 220 °C for about 20 minutes. Halfway through, turn them to prevent burning on one side.

– On a stove or grill: Light the embers as you normally would for a barbecue, for example, and place the chestnuts on the embers, well-seasoned with salt. Stir occasionally to prevent them from burning.

5. Create a Gourmet Experience

A Magusto can be an excellent opportunity to explore flavors and offer your guests a unique culinary experience. In addition to chestnuts, you can serve other snacks that will delight everyone.

– Grilled chorizo and a selection of cheeses are classic choices that never disappoint.

– Rustic bread with flavored olive oil, dried figs, or even freshly fried codfish cakes.

– For dessert, serve traditional sweets in gourmet portions so that guests can sample various options.

6. Choose the wine

In addition to chestnuts, wine is also the star of the Magusto. In Portugal, this age-old tradition must include jeropiga, vinho novo, or água-pé, depending on the region. Add Mandriola red wine to the menu. Rich and fruity, it perfectly complements roasted chestnuts and good conversation. Open a bottle, serve yourself and your guests, and enjoy without rushing. You can also take the opportunity to prepare a wine tasting.

7. Prepare a Traditional Meal

Snacks and appetizers are great, but some people can’t do without a more complete meal. We suggest caldo verde or pumpkin cream soup, bacalhau à lagareiro, a roasted rooster with chestnuts, or duck rice. For dessert, surprise everyone at the table with Abade de Priscos pudding, honey cakes, rice pudding, sponge cake, or almond tart.

8. Prepare the Entertainment

In addition to good food and drink, it’s important to ensure that everyone has fun. Organize traditional games, such as the “jogo da lata” (tin can game), where participants try to hit a target with chestnuts. You can also warm up your voices and showcase musical talents in a fun karaoke session.

Now you are ready to organize an epic Magusto at home! With chestnuts, Mandriola wine, and plenty of joy, you will be able to enjoy the best of life and create great memories with those you love most. Enjoy the party, relax, and happy São Martinho!