From 8 to 10 September 2025, Freixo do Meio hosted the Acorn Academy, a gathering dedicated to sharing knowledge, experience and practical approaches around one of the most emblematic resources of the Montado: the acorn.
Over three days, we welcomed 16 participants from different fields and countries — academics, chefs, local associations, landowners and people interested in the food, cultural and ecological potential of the acorn, coming from Portugal, Spain and the Netherlands.
The first day was dedicated to Quercus species, the Montado ecosystem, harvesting and processing. It was an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the trees that shape this landscape, the cycles of the acorn, and the methods used to collect, select and prepare this fruit.
On the second day, the focus shifted to transformation, preservation and nutritional aspects. The acorn was explored not only as a traditional product, but also as an ingredient with food value, innovation potential and relevance for a diet more closely connected to the land. On this day, we were also joined by the reporting team from Biosfera, the RTP2 programme, which later produced the report “Redescobrir a Bolota” — “Rediscovering the Acorn” — broadcast in November 2025.
The third day was dedicated to cooking. Bread, soup, pâté, cakes, biscuits and many other preparations showed the versatility of the acorn in the kitchen. More than recovering a forgotten ingredient, the experience revealed how the acorn can regain an active place in contemporary food culture, bringing together tradition, creativity and sustainability.
On this final day, we also had the honour of signing a cooperation protocol with PECT — Património Enogastronómico, Cultura e Tradição, from Montalegre, strengthening our commitment to building bridges between territories, knowledge and communities working to value food heritage.
The Acorn Academy was, above all, a moment of encounter. A space to learn, experiment, exchange ideas and imagine new paths for a resource that is part of the history of the Montado and still has much to offer.
We thank everyone who participated and shared their knowledge with us.
Registrations are now open for the 2026 edition. Learn more.