Tap de Cortí
Introduction
If you are reading this short article, you are surely a lover of quality products and fine cuisine.
And here in Mallorca, we have a little treasure, a variety of pepper native to the island, which is an excellent ingredient for many dishes and sausages in Mallorcan cuisine.
Today we are going to talk about Tap de Cortí, a real treat for the taste buds.
Tap de Cortí, what is it?
The Tap de Corti is a variety of pepper native to the island of Mallorca, used to make the famous Mallorca paprika. The processing of the ripe pepper, drying and grinding, results in a sweet paprika with a very distinctive appearance and properties.
These pepper and bright and intense red, small, between 4 and 7 cm, triangular in shape and, curiously, grow with their tips pointing towards the sky.
The name ¿where does it come from?
It is said that this name originated because the shape of this peculiar pepper closely resembled the stopper that was formerly used in Mallorca in certain types of bottles; and because of the name Cortí, which refers to the corrals where the peppers were dried.
Properties, nutrition and health
This paprika is characterised by its vivid red-orange colour, delicate aroma and slightly sweet flavour.
It contains vitamins A, E, K and B, but what stands out most is its vitamin C content, which is twice that of oranges or kiwis and almost triple that of any other paprika.
In addition to this, it is an excellent antioxidant, something that greatly benefits the typical Mallorcan Sobrasada, which uses Tap de Cortí as one of its star ingredients.
Due to its high content of vitamins, minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium), lycopenes, capsinoids and polyphenols, it is highly recommended for a healthy and balanced diet.
Uses
If you love cooking and you have a little imagination, you will think of countless ways to use this paprika.
Traditionally here in Mallorca it is used to season stews, the typical “Tumbet”, “Arrós brut”, “Frit mallorquí” or even a good plate of snails.
But where Tap de Cortí plays a really important role is in Mallorcan Sobrasada. It gives it its characteristic colour, much of its aroma and flavour and, above all, excellent antioxidant properties that allow it to be preserved for long periods of time.
Haven’t tried Tap de Cortí yet? Here is a link where you can buy it. Best gourmet products from Mallorca
If this article has sparked your interest in sobrasada, follow the link to learn about the different types of sobrasada depending on the casing used: