The Cataplana history
Cataplana is not only the name of this kitchen utensil made of copper and in the shape of a shell, it is also the name of the delicious dishes that are made in it. The cataplana is made up of two concave parts joined by a hinge that, with the help of two side fasteners, seals all the ingredients, ensuring that all flavors and aromas are retained and blended together like no other kitchen utensil.
The food is cooked with an airtight steam cooking, slowly and at low temperatures. This way of cooking gives the food a unique and characteristic flavor that you will want to repeat.
Originally made from copper, today there are cataplanas on the market that can be used in modern induction or glass ceramic hobs.
Little is known about the origins of the cataplana in the Algarve, but everything indicates that it was during the period when the Algarve was under Arab rule that it appeared. Its creation may have been inspired by the many bivalves that inhabit the Ria Formosa.
Documents arrive from ancient times referring to the opening of a pit in the ground where the cataplana was placed on glowing embers and covered with sand. This type of open-air cooking is documented in historical records and, looking at the shape of the cataplana, it is perfectly natural that this should have happened.
Even today, this kitchen utensil is produced by artisans who mold the copper with slow, accurate hammer blows that give them all their charm.
There are countless dishes that can be prepared in a cataplana. Of all this variety of recipes, we highlight the Clams Ă Portimonense, Clams in Cataplana, Partridges with Clams in Cataplana, Pork Cataplana with Clams, Tamboril Cataplana, and we could list many more.
In June, the cataplana has a festival dedicated to it exclusively: the Festa da Cataplana in Castro Marim.
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