The “Pota Blava” is the common name with which we know the “Catalan breed of El Prat”. It is a traditional breed of chickens and hens that farmers have raised in the delta area of El Prat de Llobregat since the 19th century. It is one of the only breeds of poultry that has not undergone crosses with other hybrid strains. Thus, we see that the importance of this bird is huge. That’s why the “Pota Blava” grows in the open air and is fed with a diet based on natural products (feed with more than 65% cereal), while its quality is guaranteed by the Protected Geographical Indication.
As for food, we can say that “Pota Blava” is a high quality food. The meat is fine and honeyed, with a very intense flavor! It has a lot of protein and very little fat. Do you want to try it? Do not hesitate to go to restaurants in El Prat de Llobregat city such as Ona Nuit or Cèntric Gastro!, where they will make you the best chicken dishes “Pota Blava”. You can also try it in next year’s edition of QuintoTapa 2021, where all participating bars and restaurants make tapas with local products such as “Pota Blava” or the “artichoke from El Prat”. You’ll also find it in the Municipal Market, in the Remolar Market and in the Prat-Marina Market in case you prefer to cook it at home.
Pota Blava’s History
To know the history of “Pota Blava” we will also have to know El Prat de Llobregat‘s history. During the 40s, this city was an immense agricultural park and thanks to the Catalan peasants and poultry farmers who selected and improved the chickens of the time the autochthonous breed emerged to what we now call “Catalan breed of the Prat” or “Pota Blava” . Over the years the agricultural park was reduced due to the construction of houses and buildings and, therefore, the breeding of this bird was also reduced. Luckily, it has been possible to preserve a dozen farmhouses that coexist in the middle of the city and where they can raise these precious animals.
Photography of Ayuntamiento del Prat de Llobregat
Pota Blava’s Characteristics
The “Pota Blava” is characterized by its dark blonde feathers, but very lively. The feathers that make up the neck and back are even darker, but do not reach the color red. The crest of this unique chicken is red, as it is the beard and its face. However, their ears will take your attention: they are totally white. The eyes are hazel and the beak is dark. But why is it called “Pota Blava”? We already have not told you about its legs and IT is the part of its body where its name comes from: the legs of this chicken are slate blue. How they stand out!
Now that you know the history and characteristics of “Pota Blava”, you will have realized that it is a very, very special chicken. If you come to know El Prat de Llobregat by coming to Centre Esplai Hostel, do not hesitate to go see these farmhouses and the breeders of this incredible breed.