A kind of metal pan formed by two concave parts that fit together with the aid of a hinge and often with two side latches. Originally made of copper or brass, the cataplana is now made of copper, aluminum, and stainless steel. There are cataplanas of various sizes, according to the amount of food to be prepared. Usually the food - normally seafood, but sometimes pork meat, with onions and different seasonings potatoes or other vegetables - is placed raw inside the cataplana and left to cook with it closed over a low heat
