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Octopus Cataplana — traditional dish from Algarve, Portugal
Main course Fish & Seafood

Food Flavour DNA

Nutritional Values

🔥520kcal
💪42gProtein
🌾40gCarbs
🥑18gFat
🌿4gFibre
⚖️400 gServing

* Per serving · 400 g. May vary.

Allergens

🐟 Fish

Octopus Cataplana

How to order / say it
Say it Cataplana de Polvo — [ka-ta-PLA-na djuh POL-voo]
Order I'd like the Octopus Cataplana, please.
Locally Queria a Cataplana de Polvo, por favor.
Say locally

A hearty dish of tender octopus stewed with potatoes and spices.

Why try it?

As a lesser-known variation of the traditional cataplana, this dish highlights the Algarve's versatility in seafood preparation. It's an authentic taste of local culinary craftsmanship, perfect for lovers of seafood and regional traditions.

How it tastes

The tender, slightly chewy octopus is infused with the flavors of garlic, onion, and white wine, complemented by the earthy tones of potatoes. The dish is aromatic, with a balance of flavors that is both hearty and comforting.

Origin & History — first documented: 1850

Octopus Cataplana emerged in the mid-19th century as an adaptation of the traditional cataplana, devised to utilize octopus abundance along the Algarve coast. Over time, it became a celebrated local dish, appreciated for its adaptability and depth of flavor.

Recipe

Ingredients

  • 🦐 600 g octopus
  • 🥕 300 g potatoes
  • 🧄 1 large onion
  • 🧄 4 cloves garlic
  • 🥕 2 medium tomato
  • 🫒 30 ml olive oil
  • 🍷 150 ml white wine

Method

  1. 1 Boil octopus until tender, then set aside.
  2. 2 Sauté onions, garlic, and tomatoes in olive oil in a cataplana pot.
  3. 3 Add boiled potatoes and octopus along with white wine.
  4. 4 Simmer covered until all flavors meld and serve hot.

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All Europe recipes — Portugal — Faro — Octopus Cataplana
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