Before proceeding to determine the meaning of the term casserole, we are going to establish the etymological origin of the aforementioned word. In this case, we can indicate that it comes from Latin, specifically it comes from "cattium", which is synonymous with "saucepan", and from the sum of the diminutive suffix "-uelo".
The concept of a casserole refers to a wide vessel , not too deep, that is usually used for preparing stews or serving them. It is possible to differentiate between different types of casseroles.
Rounded in shape, the most popular casseroles are made from fired clay . Its origins are very ancient: that is why it is considered that the casserole was one of the first elements of tableware to be created.
A metal container with a lid and handles is also called a casserole. In this case, cazuela is synonymous with saucepan and is similar to pots and kettles .
The meals that are prepared in this type of vessels are known, precisely, as casseroles. These dishes are typical of Spain , Italy , France , Portugal and several Latin American nations.
Seafood casserole is a traditional preparation from various regions . Although its ingredients may vary, it usually includes shrimp, prawns, squid, rice and a stir-fry of vegetables such as carrot, onion, tomato and bell pepper.
In Spain, in addition to the aforementioned type of casserole, the so-called fish casserole is also very important. This is a very traditional recipe that is prepared with different types of fish as well as ingredients such as potatoes, onion, pepper, tomato, parsley, cilantro or olive oil.
Chicken and rice casserole is famous in Asia . Usually the rice is cooked in the casserole and then, already cooked, cubes of chicken and pieces of the sausage known as Chinese sausage are added. You can also add vegetables and fish .
Latin American gastronomy has many types of casseroles. Among the most common ingredients are potatoes , corn, squash, chicken and rice.
In Latin America there are different versions of the casserole, depending on each country. Thus, for example, in Ecuador it is prepared with baked seafood, bananas, cumin, achicote or ground peanuts. This dish is usually accompanied, on a regular basis, with white rice.
On the other hand, in Peru there are two different types of cazuela. One is prepared with lamb and the other is made with fish.
In the same way, we cannot ignore that it is also a very typical dish in Chile. In this other country it is made with turkey, chicken, beef or chicken meat, for example. Meats to which ingredients such as vegetables, chuchoca and rice are added.
France , for its part, has cassoulet , a casserole prepared with beans (also called beans), vegetables, meat and sausages. Cassoulet is even sold canned.