Portuguese cuisine is characterized by often flavorful and rich dishes and is an example of the Mediterranean influence of Portugal’s former colonial possessions is also noticeable, especially in the many different spices used. These spices include piri-oiri (small, fiery chili peppers) and black pepper as well as cinnamon, vanilla and saffron. Olive oil is one of the basics of the Portuguese cooking. Garlic is used extensively, as well as herbs such as coriander and parsley. Portuguese cuisine is famous for its stews, it comes to both fish and meat. Among the fish rights is bacalhau common. Portugal is a major maritime nation with a well-developed fishing industry, which is reflected in the amount of fish and shellfish consumed.