São Martinho Cod
In São Martinho, chestnuts are roasted, cod is eaten and wine is tasted, people say, and rightly so.
At this time, one of the oldest traditions in Portugal is celebrated: São Martinho, where it is customary to eat chestnuts, which at this time are beginning to be common in our fields, and the new wine is tasted. But after all, who was Saint Martin?
Legend has it that Saint Martin was a knight who, on a stormy and cold day, while guarding the castle, encountered a beggar who was cold and without shelter. Saint Martin did not hesitate, he got off his horse and with his sword he cut off his military cape and gave half of it to the beggar. Despite being poorly dressed and raining heavily, he was preparing to continue on his way when suddenly the storm disappeared and gave way to a bright sun.
It is said that God, to remember the act of kindness practiced by the Saint, gives beautiful sunny days in mid-Autumn, which the people call « Summer of St. Martin ». It is because of this legend that, every year, we celebrate Saint Martin's Day on November 11th.
Although it is not known exactly how the tradition began, the truth is that this ancient custom is rooted in the Portuguese people and Madeirans as well, and is practiced to this day. In our restaurant we celebrate the tradition of S. Martinho tasting chestnuts, roasted cod and good wine.
The celebration of São Martinho is an excellent reason to grab the family, invite friends and come for lunch and/or dinner at our restaurant. Here's a suggestion for this weekend, with or without the cold and rain, nothing beats the taste of wine, cozying up with our delicious roasted cod.
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