This is the 711th most frequent Catalan word.
catalana
"Catalana" means "Catalan" (feminine form), referring to something or someone from Catalonia.
The word 'catalana' here is used as an adjective derived from proper noun 'Catalunya', denoting a relation to the Catalonia region, specifically qualifying 'cuina' (cuisine).
La cuina catalana és molt variada i rica.
Catalan cuisine is very varied and rich.
In this sentence, 'catalana' is used as a demonym and a substantivized adjective referring to a female person native to or associated with Catalonia.
La catalana va guanyar la cursa amb gran determinació.
The Catalan woman won the race with great determination.
Here, 'catalana' is functioning as an adjective modifying 'història', indicating that it pertains to the history of Catalonia.