Cataplana Recipe – Portugal's Seafood Delight

Name: Cataplana
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 3-5 servings
Cuisine: Portugal
Ingredients: bay leaf; black pepper; cherry tomatoes halved; chicken broth; chicken thighs boneless; chorizo; cloves garlic; deveined; dried oregano; dried thyme; green bell pepper; olive oil; onion; parsley for garnish; portuguese sausage; red bell pepper; salt; shrimp; skinless cut into chunks; smoked paprika; white wine

Cataplana is a traditional Portuguese seafood dish that combines a variety of fresh ingredients, typically cooked in a unique clam-shaped pot. This dish showcases the rich maritime culture of Portugal, often enjoyed during family gatherings or special occasions. It celebrates local seafood and is a favorite in coastal regions.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

1 lb chorizo or Portuguese sausage, sliced
1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into chunks
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup white wine
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large cataplana or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the sliced chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the chicken chunks and cook until browned on all sides.

Combine Ingredients

Add the sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine.

Pour in the white wine and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.

Return the cooked chorizo to the pot and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Cook the Shrimp

Cover the pot and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors are well combined.

Add the shrimp and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cataplana?

Cataplana is a seafood dish from Portugal, typically made with a mix of fish, shellfish, and sometimes meats, all cooked together in a distinctive clam-shaped pot.

Where does Cataplana come from?

Cataplana originates from the Algarve region of Portugal, known for its rich fishing tradition and vibrant culinary heritage.

What are the main ingredients in Cataplana?

Key ingredients include chorizo or Portuguese sausage, chicken thighs, shrimp, olive oil, onion, garlic, and bell peppers.

How long does Cataplana take to make?

Cataplana takes about 50-70 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Cataplana?

Serve Cataplana with crusty bread for dipping and a side salad to balance the flavors.

Cataplana