Cataplana de Peixe
A traditional Algarve fish stew cooked in the iconic clam-shaped copper cataplana pot with tomatoes and peppers.
About This Recipe
Named after the distinctive hinged copper pot in which it is made, cataplana de peixe is a fragrant fish stew from Portugal's Algarve coast. White fish, peppers, tomatoes, onions, and potatoes steam together in a sealed pot, creating an intensely flavored one-pot meal. The cataplana pot traps all the steam and aromas, producing tender fish in a rich broth.
Ingredients
Serves 4
- 600 gwhite fish fillets(cod or sea bass, cubed)
- 1 largeonion(sliced)
- 2 mediumpotatoes(sliced thin)
- 2 mediumtomatoes(chopped)
- 1 largered bell pepper(sliced)
- 3 clovesgarlic(sliced)
- 100 mlwhite wine
- 3 tbspolive oil
- 1 tspsweet paprika
- 1 bunchparsley(chopped)
Instructions
- 1
Layer the pot
In the cataplana or heavy pot, layer olive oil, onion, garlic, potatoes, peppers, and tomatoes.
- 2
Season and add fish
Sprinkle with paprika and salt. Lay fish pieces on top. Pour in white wine.
- 3
Seal and cook
Close the cataplana (or cover tightly with a lid). Cook over medium heat for 25-30 minutes.
- 4
Serve
Open at the table for a dramatic reveal. Garnish with parsley.
Pro Tips
- →
If you don't have a cataplana, a Dutch oven with a tight lid works well.
- →
Don't stir — the layers are part of the presentation.
Variations
- •
Add clams or prawns along with the fish for a mixed seafood version.
Storage
Best eaten immediately. Leftover fish stew keeps 1 day refrigerated.
History & Origin
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (350g) · 4 servings total
Time Summary
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