One of the best things you will do in Goa is not beach bumming. It’s not water sports either. It’s cuisine sampling. For a travel destination of Goa’s repute, the cuisine is surprisingly undermined. We often see tourists and travel guides going gung ho about Goan beaches, Gothic churches, temples, water sports and nightlife. What about the food? Goa is truly a foodie’s paradise. Of course one can find any type of cuisine being served in most Goa hotels, but what good is a trip to Goa if one does not indulge in a sliver of a mouthwatering Bebinca cake?
For those who love to mix it up and experiment with different types of cuisines and sample new beverages, Goa is a place that does not disappoint at all. Goan cuisine largely draws from Hindu, Konkani, and Dutch influences to create a cuisine style unique to Goa. Rich in flavor yet incredibly simple, Goan cuisine is sure to win your hearts.
Needless to say, the cuisine is largely seafood based since Goa is a coastal region after all. Vegetarians need not despair either as the Goans like to vegetables too. Feigoada, Kokum Curry, Breadfruit Curry, Rice Bread, Sannas, Coconut Pulao, and Arroz are some of the most popular Goan delicacies that would leave a vegetarian asking for more.
There are many hotels in Goa that boast of incredible restaurants that specialize in the preparation of typical Goan cuisine. Here you can couple your meal with a great view, impeccable service, fantastic ambience, and the best variety of wines and spirits to enjoy. You can stick to local Goan liquors like Goan Port Wines or Cashew Feni (makes for a great gift and souvenir). Else you can go international and take your pick from extensive bar menus. Stick to cold beers or feni, if finger food and snacks are what you are after. For the main course, you may want to pick a wine.
A word about Goan desserts, those with a sweet tooth have much to try. Many Goa Hotels also have exclusive bakeries and coffee shops where you may have a look at the sweet treats that this sunny paradise has to offer. Cashew nuts and coconuts are used in many of these sweets since they are available in abundance. Be sure to try the Bebinca Cake – a layered cake for which each layer is baked separately. Dodol is another sweetmeat to be relished as you enjoy a great foodie holiday in Goa.
So next time you go to Goa, don’t be a boring traveler and hunt for familiar names on the menu. Don’t just stick to safe bets. Go out of your way to order something new, exciting and adventurous, and dig in!