Francesinha Portuguese Sandwich

In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, and cook for another 2 minutes. Pour in the beer, beef broth, port wine, and bay leaf. Add the piri-piri sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Mix the cornstarch with 2 tbsp of cold water to create a slurry, then stir into the sauce continuously until it thickens. If desired, stir in 1 tbsp of butter at the end for a smoother consistency. Remove the bay leaf.

While the sauce is simmering, prepare the meats. In a frying pan, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the beef steaks for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove, season with salt and pepper. Next, cook the fresh sausages and frankfurter sausages until nicely browned. Slice the cooked sausages and frankfurters.

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan-assisted). Lightly toast the bread slices in a dry pan or toaster. Place one slice of bread on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Layer with the ham, cooked fresh sausage, frankfurter, and beef steak. Cover with another slice of bread. If using, fry an egg and place it on top of the upper bread slice. Generously cover the entire sandwich with cheese slices, ensuring it's fully encased.

Place the baking tray in the hot oven and bake for 5-8 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. Meanwhile, cook the french fries according to package instructions. Carefully remove the Francesinha from the oven and transfer it to a deep plate. Pour the hot sauce generously over the sandwich, ensuring it covers the sandwich and pools at the bottom of the plate. Serve immediately with the freshly cooked french fries.