I know it’s a bit obvious, but I think it’s worth restating, it’s damn cold; so cold that an unlimited supply of wool blankets and crackling fireplaces won’t eradicate the persistent, internal chill. During these trying times, I find myself reaching for liquid comfort when the mercury dips below zero, preferably from a fortified or rich red wine. The Alentejo, Dão and […]
Portuguese Wines to Ward Off the Winter Read More »
As I was nearing 16, I told my parents I didn’t want a big birthday party. I opted instead for a trip to Portugal—the best sweet sixteen gift I could ever receive. In college, I went so far as to turn down a trip to Cancun for a chance to explore historic Portuguese villages. There
Portugal is a Small Package with Big Surprises Read More »
The headline is a bit more ambitious than I plan to be. This past year has seen a lot of changes at Catavino HQ, not least of all is trying to find a balance in life with a little guy nipping at your heels. At night, Gabriella and I often find ourselves falling asleep to
10 Portuguese Wine Experiences from 2014: An unforgettable year! Read More »
My first New Years in Portugal was spent in Lisbon, gazing out across the city to the Tejo river, where the yearly fireworks would flare up and burst in a spectacular display of color. Underneath the technicolor display, a cacophony of banging pots and pans alongside honking car horns rang in o Ano Novo. It was a gorgeous night
Traditions of a Portuguese New Year: It all comes down to your underwear Read More »
From the beginning of November to the end of January, it’s impossible to pass a pastelaria (pastry shop) without being bombarded by the ubiquitous Bolo Rei (King Cake). This is one of, if not the most, popular Christmas desserts throughout Portugal, consisting of a sweet, brioche-like bread dough packed with eggs and filled with various nuts, raisins and crystallized fruit. Essentially, a much tastier version of
Bolo Rei and Bolo Rainha: Portugal’s Royal Christmas Treat Read More »
One of the top things I like to do when I’m in Portugal is stop in at a local “tasca” for a home-style meal. As a matter of fact, I have a new favorite tasca called Tascardoso in Lisbon’s Principe Real neighborhood where I recently spent a week. Our airbnb host recommended it. But even
17 Stars in 2014: Portugal’s Haute Cuisine Continues to be on Michelin’s Radar Read More »
Like any good Americana, the smell of roasted root vegetables and spiced pumpkin are what I call the “scent” of autumn. It’s that smell that comes to mind when the leaves gently metamorphous from green to burnt orange, maroon and mustard yellow; when the air takes on the bite of frost; when your wardrobe changes from thin
Portuguese Squash and Root Vegetables: Pure Comfort Food Read More »
Unlike the Sirens in Greek mythology, I wouldn’t call the fishwives of Porto’s Mercado do Bolhao dangerous, but they definitely have an allure. Bolhao is the city’s traditional open market, a once vibrant place that is now in desperate need of updated regulations and repair. But what it certainly doesn’t lack at all are charismatic characters.
Supermarket Diaries: The Fishwives’ Siren Song Read More »
I’m a chocolate lover. I’m also a fig lover. Then I took a trip to the Algarve and discovered that chocolate and fig had a love child, and its name is Alfarroba. Vacationing in the Algarve, the southernmost region of Portugal, has its benefits; and it’s not just for the beach and the great weather.
Alfarroba: Southern Portugal’s Guilt-Free Dessert Read More »
Photographer: Nuno Lemos Capture Date: December 21, 2013 Location: Serra da Estrela, Portugal About: Located in central Portugal, this gorgeous unspoiled area is a protected National Park filled with rushing rivers, deep ravines and enough wildlife to keep your binoculars at the ready. That said, if you’re a cheese lover, consider packing up your bags and moving here
Friday Feature Photo: Sunset over Serra da Estrela, Portugal Read More »
I’ll admit, there are times I desperately wish to transport myself back to Barcelona, to the autumn sun, to the calm beaches, to the lazy outdoor terraces. And it’s not because Barcelona is any better or worse than Porto, it’s because it’s simply…dry. Come autumn, Porto turns into a wicked stepchild, throwing a massive tantrum of blustery
Top 5 Ways to Enjoy the Autumn Rain Read More »
When suddenly canned seafood became trendy in Portugal, I couldn’t help but have mixed feelings about it. On the one hand: I was thrilled for the producers and its supporters as well as proud of the industry’s ability to reinvent itself. But on the other: I thought, duh only now? And, will it last? I
Portuguese Meals Anyone Can Make: Octopus Salad with Black Eyed Peas Read More »
Editor’s note: When Sonia’s in Portugal her favorite thing to do is to peruse the supermarket aisles. As she shuffles between the U.S. and Portugal, we’ll be bringing you her discoveries in “Supermarket Diaries.” When I lived in Connecticut, I found myself in an argument with the butcher at the local supermarket – a risky move when
Supermarket Diaries: You had me at Rabbit Legs Read More »
When I moved to Portugal, I was dumbfounded by the amount of rice I consumed. Why? Because rice is absolutely everywhere! Not only that, the Portuguese are the largest consumers of rice in Europe, savoring 15 – 16 kilos per capita a year, compared with the 4 – 5 kilo European average. Unbeknown to many,
Portugal’s Arroz Carolino: The Native Rice of Portuguese Gastronomy Read More »
Editor’s Note: Although summer has come and gone, there’s no reason why you can’t be planning next year’s goal to become a surfing pro! Avid beach lover, Leah Burt, has provided us great suggestions on what to look out for when choosing your perfect Portuguese or Spanish surf camp! Over the past decade, Portugal and Spain have
How to Choose a Surfing School in Spain and Portugal Read More »
You must be logged in to post a comment.