9 Must eat foods in Goa

Goa is a western state with coastlines stretching along the Arabian Sea. Its long and fascinating history as a Portuguese colony prior to 1961 is evident in its preserved 17th-century churches and the area’s tropical spice plantations. The state is very much known for its beaches, laid-back fishing villages such as Agonda, cheap booze, seafood, shopping at the various markets, eating the local cuisine and some amazing water sports.

Influenced by Portuguese colonisation and Muslim rule, Goan cuisine consists of regional foods which are very popular. Rice, seafood, coconut, vegetables, meat, pork and local spices are some of the main ingredients and flavours in the cuisine. The state is located in a tropical region which brings strong spices and flavours to its food. The use of kokum is another distinct feature in the cuisine. Last but not the least, the food is always considered incomplete without fish.

Here are few must try dishes:

1. Goan Fish Curry:

The dish that the state is most famous for is the Goan Fish Curry. It’s a coconut based dish flavoured with red chillies and fresh fish or prawns usually served with fluffy rice.

2. Pork vindaloo:

A spicy Goan curry originated from a Portuguese sailor’s dish pork, garlic and wine. It is normally eaten which bread, Naan or rotis. Add this to your list of must-try dishes.

3. Crab xec xec:

A very fragrant Goan crab curry cooked in roasted spices and coconut curry. The roasting of all the ingredients for the paste enhances the flavor of this curry and takes it to a whole new level. It’s the ultimate dish for crustacean lovers and served with rice or bread.

4. Goan red rice:

‘Ukade ride’ or Goan red rice is a thick grain reddish colour rice. These are popular gourmet circles in India. It tastes nutty flavour and its firm texture makes it excellent for eating with coconut curries.

5. Sannas:

Sannas are the Goan idlis. Made from rice these idlis are quite different from normal idlis. The Sannas have a sweet coconut flavour. Sannas complement most of the curry dishes.

6. Prawn Rissois:

Pronounced as ‘Rissoee’. A very popular appetiser influenced by the Portuguese. A dainty, cheesy snack that melts in your mouth. This is definitely a must-try.

7. Bebinca (sweet):

Bebinca is one of the most famous and loved desserts. A multilayered cake prepared using coconut milk, sugar, eggs and flour. It is the Goan version of pancakes. The dish uses caramelised sugar for a rich flavour.

8. Kulkul (sweet):

A traditional Christmas sweet, Kulkul is made of maida and semolina. The dough is rolled into small “rolled butter” like shapes and deep-fried and then it is put in sugar syrup.

9. Feni (drink):

A spirit produced exclusively in Goa and made from the first extract of cashew. Coconut feni, distilled from fermented toddy from the coconut palm. It is more popular in South part of the state. If you are here, it is a must-try drink apart from alcohol.

To plan a trip, >>Click here