Food in Goa
It’s no surprise that an area famous for its beaches would also be well-known for its seafood. Goa, India is a favorite holiday destination among beach-lovers because this small state has some of the most beautiful beaches in Asia. Add in the thriving nightlife, great shopping, and incredible food and its easy to understand why the region is so popular with vacationers.
The many five and four star hotels in Goa offer some of the best restaurants in the area. In addition to regional India food with the freshest seafood ingredients, these and other fine dining restaurants offer cuisines from France, Italy, China, and other parts of India. International cuisine is a growing industry in this tourist state.
Visitors will want to make sure to take the time to hunt down some local restaurants as well as the finer establishments and familiar chain eateries. It is the small, well-seasoned restaurants owned and operated by locals that offer the best examples of Goan cuisine.
Fish curries are a popular element in Goan cooking. Cooks use elaborate recipes to concoct these delicious xit kodi, which are usually served with rice. Other popular ingredients in local cuisine include coconut, chili peppers, vinegar, and coconut oil.
Pork is also a popular ingredient, especially during religious festivals and holidays. The Portugues influence in Goa is reflected in the strong Catholic community here. Pork dishes such as Vindaloo, Xacuti, and Sorpotel are plentiful during Catholic holy feasts. Another popular festival dish is Khatkhate, wich is a vegetable stew enhanced with fresh coconut. It is equally popular during Hindu and Catholic observances.
And no trip to Goa would be complete without sampling the feni. This liquor is produced locally and the type offered depends on the part of Goa where it is made. Southern Goa favors coconut feni while Northern Goa is known for its cashew feni. The strong flavor of either version is an interesting accompaniment to any Goan meal.
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