Bringing Portuguese culture

from my Azorean table to yours

ADD SOME AZOREAN FLAVOR TO YOUR LIFE

Featured Recipes

A round plate holds a dish of rice pudding sprinkled with cinnamon in a crisscross pattern. The plate, inspired by Azorean cooking, is decorated with floral designs and rests on a lace doily.

Baked Goods

Arroz Doce / Sweet Rice

Arroz Doce, or Portuguese sweet rice pudding, is a creamy, comforting dessert flavored with hints of lemon and cinnamon. It’s a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table, often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions. Simple to make with pantry staples, it’s a timeless treat loved at gatherings and family tables alike!

Close-up of a few freshly baked popovers drizzled with a sugary glaze, reminiscent of the delectable pastries from Maria Lawton’s Azorean cooking. The golden brown treats have a puffy, airy texture and are arranged on a plate, with some of the glaze dripping slightly over the sides.

Baked Goods

Portuguese Cavacas – Portuguese Popovers

Portuguese Cavacas are light, airy pastries with a sweet sugar glaze, perfect for celebrations or a cozy coffee break. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser People will think you worked hard to make them, but we'll keep that our secret!

A round tart with a striped pattern of colorful, glazed vegetables sits on a clear glass plate. A spatula is placed beside it on a wooden surface.

Baked Goods

Upside Down Carrot Cake

Similar to the classic upside-down pineapple cake, this cake is a delightful twist on a favorite dessert. It’s topped with a rich, buttery caramel sauce that seeps into every bite. Carrot cake has always been one of my favorite desserts, and this version, with its irresistible caramelized topping, is truly mouthwatering. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself!

ABOUT MARIA

Welcome to the Azorean Green Bean®!

Born on the semi-tropical island of Sao Miguel in the village called Rosario de Lagoa, I moved permanently to the United States with my family when I was six years old. With a family tradition of cooking food from the islands, most of the recipes were lost to the ages because they were never documented.

I resolved to recreate as many of those recipes as I could to keep our family traditions alive. With the help of my sisters, aunts, and cousins, I traveled back to Sao Miguel and learned those recipes all over again, this time with a pen and paper in hand!

I'm bringing the rich culture and stories of my past to your kitchen through my cook book and television series. Saúde!


A bronze medal with a blue ribbon labeled

The follow up to my first book!

I am thrilled to announce that my second book, "At My Portuguese Table: Azorean Cooking and More!" is now available. This new book continues the style of my first book with even more delicious recipes.


A person sits at a wooden table signing books while two people stand in front of them. The background has shelves with canned goods and a sign that reads

Maria's Appearances

Come See Maria in person!

Join Maria live for an unforgettable experience celebrating Portuguese food, culture, and community! As an award-winning author, PBS host, and beloved ambassador of Portuguese heritage, Maria brings her passion and warmth to every event. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to her world, you’ll enjoy engaging stories, delicious recipes, and the opportunity to connect in person. Don’t miss your chance to meet Maria, grab a signed copy of her latest book, and be part of the vibrant Portuguese table she shares with the world!


Maria's Portuguese Table®

Black laurel branches frame the text

Maria's Portuguese Table® is an award-winning culinary travel show that features Portuguese dishes and culture not only in the Azores, but around the world. We bring the culture and traditions of a small island chain in the Atlantic ocean to a larger audience, and also invite you join us for the stories and memories behind the dishes.


THE COOKBOOK

Azorean Cooking: From My Table to Yours

Azorean Cooking will transport you to a kitchen as fragrant as your grandmother's. No matter your heritage, this charming cookbook is a pleasure, providing the perfect introduction to the culture, food, and heritage of this remarkable region. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases).


WE'RE GETTING NOTICED!

Maria's Awards

Silver Winner For the 43rd Annual Telly Awards

Bronze Winner For the 43rd Annual Telly Awards

Travel with Maria

No More Trips This Year — But More to Come!

Thank you to everyone who joined me on tour this year—it’s been such a joy traveling with you! While there are no more trips scheduled for the rest of this year, I’m already working on exciting plans for 2026. Newsletter subscribers will be the first to hear when new dates are announced, so be sure to sign up and stay tuned!



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Listen to Married to Portuguese, the fun podcast

I record with my husband, Bob!

Where to Watch

Your Local PBS Station

Maria's Portuguese Table® Season 2 air on stations around the US on PBS. Check your local PBS station for more information to see if we're broadcasting near you, or stream it online at pbs.org.

Now available on the PBS app found on IOS, Android, Roku, and Firestick

Watch Season 1 on YouTube

Maria goes on an 8-part food and travel odyssey starting in Rhode Island USA to Sao Miguel Azores, to California. Rediscover one of the world’s oldest cultures with her!

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