Food at the Hearth: Emotional Connections and Generational Transmission of Escudella i Carn d'Olla in Traditional Catalan Cuisine

ABSTRACT

This paper analyses the changes and continuity in the preparation and rituals of escudella i carn d'olla , a manifestation of traditional Catalan cuisine. Based on interviews with 27 ordinary citizens from different generations, the research explores how they experience, elaborate, and emotionally relate to escudella i carn d'olla , and what generational and gender patterns can be identified in these relationships. Results show that one of the most notable aspects of escudella i carn d'olla is its role in family bonding, which is shared by the three generations—the dish as a symbol of a family ritual, which mostly happens in winter, and creates a shared feeling of warmth. In addition, the changing pace of life and new consumption patterns affect how family cooking is perceived and practiced. While for older generations, the preparation of escudella is an act of caring and love for the family, younger generations have lost interest in dedicating so much time to preparing it. Its traditional preparation reflects local supply systems—such as local butcher shops and markets—and embodies a female know‐how. Its value lies in its emotional significance as it represents a cultural and social connection to the past and the present, but also to the future.