Catànies

The oriental-style dish, Catànies, is an explosion of flavor and texture. A combination of sweet and savory ingredients, it is as impressive to behold as it is to eat.

Catànies


Originating in the Middle East, Catànies is believed to have been made more accessible to the wider public by settlers in the Renaissance era. Of course, with its introduction to the West came inevitable adaptation, ensuring a flavor tailor-made to their palates. The recipe has since gained popularity internationally, taking the form of one of Spain's most beloved culinary traditions.

The mainstay of the dish is a bed of boiled potatoes, glazed with an aromatic thyme butter which provides much of its unique fragrance. Above this sit poached eggs, beaten with cream and black pepper until velvety smooth. This is all topped off with a healthy slathering of tomato sauce, infused with garlic, onions, and a mix of spices.

Each ingredient is carefully chosen to ensure maximum flavor integration, only to be enhanced further by the robust textures found in each layer. The thyme-butter potatoes are simultaneously crisp and velvety, providing a strong backdrop for the piquant sauce and the creaminess of the egg mixture.

It is easy to see why Catànies is revered throughout the world - though seemingly plain on the surface, each mouthful reveals a complex amalgamation of flavors and sensations that can't be found anywhere else. It's no wonder they say it's best experienced when shared among friends - try it out and you'll find out why!

Catànies recipes

Amazing Catànies recipes sourced from the web.

The origin of Catànies

The humble Catànies, a classic dish hailing from the Spanish region of Catalonia, have a surprisingly complicated history. Originating from the rural mountain town of Berga, this beloved staple has earned its place in regional cuisine, but the exact origin of the dish remains elusive and shrouded in mystery.

Recent research shows that the original recipe for Catànies likely dates back to the 18th century, when farmers and shepherds in the region used to mix grains of barley, oats and rye before drying it and then crushing it with a mortar and pestle. This procedure, known as ‘picar’, was common among rural populations at the time and would eventually evolve into the Catànies we know today.

This early incarnation of Catànies was a very simple dish, with only an abundance of acorns and some earthy spices added to the mixture. Later, as people moved to the city in search of better opportunities, they brought their recipes along with them, and this humble dish became increasingly refined and complex.

Over the years, Catànies were incrementally altered to suit changing tastes, leading to more variations and additions such as almonds, hazelnuts, sesame seeds, grated coconut and even honey. Today, these ingredients form the basis of the traditional recipe, although there are numerous creative interpretations to be found - from the intensely sweet to the surprisingly savoury.

Catànies may have evolved over the centuries, but its appeal as an uncomplicated yet sophisticated snack has endured. In modern times, these crunchy treats have become a beloved emblem of Catalan culture, a symbol of simplicity, comfort and resilience that speaks to the spirit of the region.

Types of Catànies

Catànies may not be a particularly well-known dish to many outside of the Catalan region of Spain, but they are certainly worth knowing. These delightful morsels of fried almonds and sugar provide a delicious treat with a memorable flavor and texture that is truly unique.

In its simplest form, Catànies are made by frying small pieces of almonds in olive oil, then coating them in a sugary syrup. The resulting treats are crunchy, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying.

However, the Catànies we get today have more than just almond pieces inside them. In modern versions, small pieces of puffed rice, candied fruit, and honeyed sesame seeds are also added to the mix. This creates an even more flavor-packed experience, and allows for more creative variations of this traditional sweet treat.

There are two main types of Catànies: the unsalted variety and the salted version. For an especially savory experience, salt can be added to the fried almonds before they are covered in the syrupy coating.

If you prefer your Catànies to have a nuttier flavor, try some of the varieties made with hazelnuts. These crunchy morsels are sure to be a hit with any nut lover.

Finally, if you like your Catànies on the sweeter side, you have plenty of options. Chocolate-covered Catànies are available, as are ones coated with caramel or pumpkin spice. No matter what your preferences are, it's easy to find a flavor combination that's just right for you.

Whether you prefer salty or sweet, plain or chocolate-covered - Catànies are sure to tantalize your taste buds. With their unique flavor and crunchy texture, these delicious morsels are a treat that will keep you coming back for more.