On the afternoon of October 22, at the Multipurpose Pavilion on the island of Corvo, the weather slowed down. Amid familiar aromas and old stories, the Flavors and Knowledge Workshop brought the cuisine of yesteryear back to life in a simple gesture, but one full of memories. In this session, traditional “fried cabbage” was prepared and served with cornbread and pork rinds.

It was through the hands and words of Mrs. Maria José Pedras, accompanied by her daughter Alzira Pedras Mendonça, that this knowledge was passed on. With generosity and pride, they shared the gestures and secrets of this Corvo recipe, learned from others who are no longer with us, but who remain alive in the flavor of food made with time, soul, and community. Each cabbage leaf, each fry, was also a journey to the roots of the island and what remains alive on it.

Since 2022, the Cozinha de Antigamente (Old-Time Cooking) project, promoted by the Corvo Ecomuseum, has been dedicated to the participatory collection of traditional Corvo cuisine, bringing together scattered knowledge and almost forgotten memories.

The Flavors and Knowledge Workshop is a space where knowledge is experienced, tested, and cooked. More than just learning recipes, it is about reviving affections, reinforcing identities, and valuing a living heritage that lives in the gestures and flavors of everyday life.

This internal action was another step in the preservation and appreciation of a heritage that belongs to everyone and that remains alive whenever it is shared.

Soon, we will have another experimental session dedicated to another recipe and with the participation of another member of the community.

A big thank you to everyone who collaborates and helps to bring the heritage of the island of Corvo to life.

From Ecomuseu-Corvo

Translated into English as a community outreach program by the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL), in collaboration with Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno. PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.