In Catalonia, winter not only brings cold weather, but also a gastronomic tradition that delights everyone: xatonadas.
Xató is the star of these gatherings. This typical dish is prepared with escarole, desalted cod, tuna, anchovies and Arbequina olives, all seasoned with a delicious sauce made from ñoras, almonds, hazelnuts, garlic and olive oil. The combination of intense flavours and varied textures makes xató an irresistible delight, perfect for sharing with family or friends. Each town in the regions of Garraf, Penedès and Baix Gaià has its own version of xató, with small variations that reflect the identity and particularities of each area.
The origin of xató is closely linked to wine culture. When the wine from the new harvest was ready to be tasted, a ceremony called "aixetonar la bóta" was performed, which consisted of placing a small tap on the barrel to allow the wine to flow. the wine came out. This moment marked the beginning of the new wine festival, which was accompanied by a meal with salty ingredients such as salted fish, served with escarole and seasoned with a special sauce, giving rise to the current xató.
One of the main attractions is the "La Ruta del Xató" (The Route of Xató), which allows you to discover the different interpretations of this dish in municipalities such as Sitges, Vilanova i la Geltrú, Vilafranca del Penedès, Calafell or El Vendrell. The tour invites participants to taste local variants of xató while enjoying the landscape and history of each village.
In addition, xatonadas are a perfect opportunity to promote the consumption of local products and discover the rich winemaking tradition of the region. The wines and cavas of Penedès pair perfectly with xató, elevating the culinary experience even further.
In short, xatonadas are a unique celebration that combines gastronomy, culture and fun. If you are a lover of good food and are looking for an authentic and flavourful experience, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a xatonada.
This winter, let yourself be seduced by the magic of xató and discover why this tradition continues to captivate generation after generation!
