
Cataplana de peixe
Join the feast with The Delight of Cataplana de peixe, a dish that brings families together with its fresh flavors.
On a sunny Sunday in a cozy tasca in Alfama, families gather around tables filled with laughter and love, ready to enjoy The Delight of Cataplana de peixe. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and the joy of sharing a hearty feast together.

With each bite, you can taste the sea, from the tender fish to the ripe tomatoes and fragrant herbs that come together in perfect harmony. The Delight of Cataplana de peixe isn’t just about flavor; it’s about the warmth of Portuguese hospitality, the communal spirit of sharing a meal made with care. It’s that kind of dish that feels like home, no matter where you are.
Ingredients · 4 servings
- 600 g mixed fish (such as cod, hake, and monkfish)
- 200 g prawns, peeled
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 400 g canned tomatoes, chopped
- 100 ml white wine
- 50 ml extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a cataplana or a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until softened.
- Stir in the sliced bell peppers and cook for a few minutes until slightly tender.
- Pour in the white wine and allow it to simmer for a minute to reduce.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Layer the mixed fish and prawns on top of the tomato mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Close the cataplana (or cover the pot) and let it cook for about 15 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve hot, ideally with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.