Sam Zucker is far from a Spanish native, but his passion and dedication to Spain has been profound. For years, he’s written on Catavino, not only infusing his writing with his love of food and wine, but for discovering the undiscovered nooks and crannies of Spain. (header photo by Sam Zucker) Sam Zucker’s Top 5 […]
Tips on what to Eat, Drink and Savor in Spain Read More »
Editor’s Note: Several months ago, we stumbled upon Barry Hatton’s book, “The Portuguese: A Modern History,” and found ourselves captivated. Very few books cover Portuguese culture and history in English, and of those that do, even fewer bring to the light the incredible successes and struggles that plague the nation. As an AP reporter, and someone married
Barry Hatton: 5 Historical events to understand the Portuguese Read More »
Smooth bittersweet chocolate on the tongue is one of the more indulgent treats to enjoy. It has a richness that the lighter, milkier counterpart just can’t seem to compare to. Luckily for me and all the other dark chocolate lovers out there, Portugal has a similar love for this sort of dark velvety confection, often
Portuguese Chocolate Rivals Belgium’s Finest Read More »
Imagine a social event in Italy or Spain and you are likely to conjure up images of long lunches over copious glasses of wine, children running amok among 1,001 family members, a powerful mother figure who unequivocally has the final word, and ridiculous amounts of food. While these two countries share linguistic ties, a rich
Alghero: Where Catalan and Sardinian Cuisine Merge Read More »
Her arthritic hand gently traced the oblong scales and swooping contours, softly smiling at its whimsy. “It’s lovely,” she whispers,” the artist must feel the spirit of the ocean as much as I do. Even at its most terrifying, I’m always drawn to it…but I guess that’s true of most Portuguese.” Adjusting her bags, she twists her body to the
The “Gangsta” Graffiti Grandmothers of Portugal Read More »
Beyond the festivals, concerts and cultural activities in Portugal lies a community of people who exist to ride the waves. This isn’t just a hobby for them, it’s a way of life! What makes Iberia unique is that each and every beach hosts its own culture, a place where the wave obsessed can enjoy a customized experience based
Top 10 Surf Schools in Spain and Portugal Read More »
Editor’s note: With the March being recognized for stories about inspiring women (also known as Women’s History Month in the USA), we thought it would be fitting to honor the only female master blender existing today, Ana Rosas, of the renowned Ramos-Pinto port house. A woman that oozes with, grace, passion and the warmest of
Women’s History Month: Exploring the Maternal Side of Winemaking Read More »
I love the flavors you get when cooking with Portuguese ingredients. I’ve learned that the food in Portugal can be intense, yet sophisticated. It bursts with flavors, yet somehow remains uncomplicated. How did a country, known for rustic cuisine, fuse exotic and foreign flavors so seamlessly that it’s become ingrained in their traditional cooking. For
Indian Spices: The Hidden Story of Portuguese Foods Global Influence Read More »
I adore a stunning pair of high heels. I’m not talking about the mammoth spikes that can alternatively be used as an assault weapon, or block heels that make you walk like un-oiled stick figure; I’m referring to the elegant sensible heels that sculpt your legs into sumptuous, sleek delectables. That said, Portugal is not for the heel obsessed. Frankly,
Catavino’s Top 10 Tips for Traveling in Portugal: Ditch the High Heels! Read More »
Carnival conjures images of brightly decorated floats, scantily clad dancing women, and a party that lasts for weeks on end, equivalent to New Orleans’ Mardi Gras. Of any other celebration, Carnival is beloved in Europe! (photo by Rosino) But what is Carnival? Historically, during the six weeks of Lent, one was expected to be conservative in their behavior, which meant no
Where to Find the Best Carnival Celebrations in Portugal Read More »
If you ask the Portuguese, “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?” I would place my bet on the egg. Ovos are found throughout Portuguese cuisine. They’re poached in soups and açordas; fried on top of steaks, alheiras and francesinhas; boiled with fish and mixed into many of their beloved bacalhau dishes; and beaten with
The History of the Egg In Portugal: Why Portugese Cuisine Can’t Live Without It Read More »
When travelling to new lands, there is always something enticing about “discovering” a place you think no one else knows about. As if you’re a rugged explorer who has stumbled upon that one diamond, that one unique place that is privy to you alone. That, my friends, is a fantastic feeling, in large part due
Taberna do Sao Pedro: A Mouthwatering Fire Hazard in Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal Read More »
Have you ever struggled to see what someone else finds beautiful? “Look!” your partner says with a smile, “Isn’t that tree absolutely beautiful?!” Staring at the emaciated lopsided trunk with 3 blooming red flowers, you smile, “Yeah hon, it’s sweet, but not sure I’d call that beautiful.” “What do you mean? It’s stunning in this
The Textures of Porto: What Makes a City Beautiful? Read More »
A few weeks ago, we attended the wedding of a dear Portuguese friend of ours in Porto who ensured that every single moment of the event was accompanied by an enormous assortment of food. From fresh fish to local cheeses and everything in between, the 12-hour-long celebration was an homage to incredible cuisine. But what
Tempura: Portugal’s Prized Gift to Japan Read More »
Last month, I made a trip to the Portuguese mountains of Serra de Estrela for the first time. Serra de Estrela is the highest mountain range in continental Portugal, and we spent 3 days enjoying some breathtaking views, crystal clear mountain lakes, picturesque little villages nestled into the cliffs and the gracious hospitality of small
The Shepherds of Serra da Estrela: A Dying Craft Threatening Portuguese Cheese Read More »
