The Cuisine of Goa – Another Attraction for the Tourists

Goa is one of the most beautiful states of India and is known as the beach capital of the country. The state is famous all over the world for its idyllic beaches, churches, palm trees and the wonderful local drink, Feni. But few know that this small state by sea also boasts of a lip smacking cuisine that whets the palate of the gourmet no end.

Those visiting Goa for the first time will find that the local cuisine is flavoured by the four hundred year occupation by the Portuguese. The abundance of seafood has ensured that Goa produces an eclectic range of seafood cuisine. The people of this tiny Indian state are very fond of food and siesta. Usually Goans do not compromise with any one of these. The people here not only love to eat but also take immense pleasure in cooking. Many Goan people still prepare food in the traditional manner by simmering the curries on firewood in clay pots for long hours to make them delicious and smoky.

The culinary delicacies of Goa will surely tantalize your taste buds. The liberal use of spices in the dishes lends a unique taste to them. Goan cuisine is known for its spicy flavor. The daily meal of a typical Goan consists of rice, fish and curry.

Some frequently used and main ingredients of Goan food are rice, fish, curry, spices, palm vinegar, coconut milk, chutney, Kokam and Tamarind. The staple food of Goa is fish and the local delicacies include shark, tuna, mackerel and pomfret. Shellfish variety are also plentiful, where one can find a tantalizing offering of crabs, prawns, lobster, squid, mussels, shrimp and tiger prawns.

Some famous vegetarian dishes of Goa are are mushroom tondak, uned, sanna, breadfruit curry, sushelle and karathiacho kuval. For non vegetarians Goa offers many varieties including chicken cafreal, chicken xacuti, sorpotel and Chouricos. And if you are fond of sea food, try out kalputi, dry prawn kismur, lobsters and crabs.

Among the many drinks, Feni is a big hit. A local drink, much renowned for its unique taste, Feni comes in two varieties--Cashew (Kaju) Feni and Coconut Feni. It can be bought from the many shops and beachside vendors lining the various Goan beaches.

During the stay in Goa everybody wants to try the local food. The variety in local food is so wide that nobody can decide immediately the menu for eating. If you are a non vegetarian then it seems that being in Goa you are at right place. The sea food and other non vegetarian dishes with an exotic concoction of spices taste heavenly after prepared in and served by the traditional Goan style.

Cuisine of this place is truly very delicious which gives you a unique blend of different cultures over many centuries. There are many Goan restaurants where you can enjoy some delicious meals. There are many dining options ranging from starred hotels to local vendors along the sea side where one can taste the delicious Goan cuisine. From casual lunches to romantic diners on the beach, all the options are available where you can enjoy the Goan food.