by Vasco, age 8, asks Pai Natal your name means Father Christmas in Portuguese. Is that like Santa?, about the Tagus River, and Portugal’s Consoada codfish tradition
Dear Pai Natal,
My name is Vasco and I am 8 years old. I live in Lisbon, Portugal, where my avo makes a huge fish dinner on Christmas Eve called Consoada, and we always set an extra plate at the table just in case.
First, your name means Father Christmas in Portuguese. Is that like Santa?
Second, a geography question: what river flows through Lisbon?
Third, a school question about my country: why is our Christmas Eve dinner, Consoada, built around codfish, bacalhau?
I left you bolo rei and a glass of milk.
Love, Vasco, age 8, Lisbon, Portugal, Lisbon, Portugal
From the Desk of Pai Natal
Dear Vasco, thank you for the treat, it was wonderful. Now, your questions.
Your name means Father Christmas in Portuguese. Is that like Santa?
Exactly that, the very same fatherly, generous spirit underneath, simply dressed in the Portuguese language.
What river flows through Lisbon?
The Tagus River flows through Lisbon on its way out to the Atlantic Ocean, and the city’s hills, lit up along the water at night, make for one of the most beautiful approaches anywhere on my European route.
Why is our Christmas Eve dinner, Consoada, built around codfish, bacalhau?
Bacalhau has been a treasured part of Portuguese cooking for centuries, ever since Portuguese sailors began fishing for cod in far-off northern waters and salting it to preserve it for the long journey home. Consoada, the late-night Christmas Eve meal, traditionally centers on boiled bacalhau with potatoes and greens.
Feliz Natal, Vasco.
Ho ho ho, Pai Natal
