A taste of Porto and the Douro Valley This elegant pasta dish was inspired by a restaurant beside the Douro River in Porto. It combines the comforting texture of linguine with the delicate savouriness of salt cod, the earthy perfume of white truffle oil and the crisp, salty contrast of black olive crumbs. Although the finished sauce feels rich and luxurious, it contains no cream or butter. The silky texture comes from blending the vegetables and milk used to gently poach the

Some evenings feel special before the first plate even reaches the table. On 9 April 2026, our cooking demonstration and supper club brought together 12 guests, one much-loved Portuguese lamb dish, and the skill of award-winning chef Catia Castro from the Purple Door Supper Club. The dish at the heart of the night was Ensopado de Borrego, a classic of the Portuguese kitchen. Rich, comforting, and full of character, it was the perfect choice for an event built around sharing f

Food has a way of making a room feel like home. On 25 April 2026, Crow Coffee in Crawley became a place where Portuguese heritage, local friendship and shared memory came together around full tables and open doors. The event marked Portugal’s 25th of April celebration, a date deeply connected with freedom, democracy and national identity. For the Portuguese community, it is more than a historic anniversary. It is a day to remember courage, honour culture and bring generations

Arroz de Marisco — Supperclub Recipe (Serves 10) A proper Portuguese arroz malandrinho: saucy, comforting seafood rice made for sharing. This version is written for our Crawley Portuguese Heritage Club Supperclub class and uses traditional Carolino rice, a splash of brandy, and a rich prawn-head stock. Recipe adapted from my original post on The Purple Door Supper Club. A little history (and why this dish matters) Arroz de marisco is one of Portugal’s great coastal comfort di

When Gordon Ramsay crowned Catia Pacheco Castro a culinary genius on the show Culinary Genius, it was a moment that changed her life. What makes her story remarkable is not just the accolade itself but the path she took to get there. Catia is a stay-at-home mom of seven children who was discovered through her popular blog and website, The Purple Door Supper Club. Today, she and her husband run the Crawley Portuguese Heritage Club, where Catia shares her passion for Portuguese

Pork is more than just an ingredient in Portugal. It carries a deep story of tradition, terroir, and ethical sourcing that has shaped Portuguese culture and cuisine for centuries. In Portugal, pork is often called the king of meats, and this title reflects its central role in the country’s culinary heritage and rural life. Understanding why pork holds this royal status means exploring its historical roots, the unique landscapes where it is raised, and the growing commitment t

Portuguese cuisine offers many comforting dishes, but few match the rich flavors and satisfying textures of Arroz de Pato, or duck rice. This traditional recipe combines tender duck meat with fragrant rice cooked in a flavorful stock, then baked with cured meats until golden and crispy. The result is a dish that feels both rustic and indulgent, perfect for sharing with family or impressing guests. This version adds a few non-traditional touches to enhance the taste and textur

Portuguese salt cod croquettes -known as Pastéis de bacalhau or bolinhos de bacalhau-first appeard in written recipes in the 19th century. The earliest known version was published in 1841 in the cookbook Arte do Cozinheiro e do Copeiro.

Crawley, a town in West Sussex, England, is known for its rich cultural diversity. Among the various communities that contribute to this vibrant tapestry, the Portuguese heritage stands out, particularly through its food, music, and community spirit. This blog post explores the unique aspects of Crawley’s Portuguese culture, highlighting how it has shaped the town's identity and brought people together. A traditional Portuguese dish showcasing the flavors of Crawley's Portugu

When it comes to culinary experiences, few can rival the rich and diverse flavors of Portuguese cuisine. From the fragrant spices of its stews to the fresh seafood that graces its shores, Portugal offers a gastronomic journey that is both unique and delightful. If you're in Crawley and looking to explore this vibrant cuisine, the Crawley Supperclub Classes provide an excellent opportunity to dive into the heart of Portuguese cooking. In this blog post, we will explore the ess

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that takes you straight to the heart of Portugal? Our Crawley cooking class offers a unique opportunity to learn how to prepare authentic Portuguese dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your friends and family. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a complete novice, this class is designed to provide you with the skills and knowledge to create delicious meals inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Portugal. A