Goa's famous seafood

 With an impressive 105km of glorious coastline, it’s no wonder that Goa is famed for producing some exceptionally fresh and tasty seafood. With lots of old fishing villages and towns dotted along the coast, no matter where you choose to base yourself during your Goa holiday, there’s plenty of opportunity to sample all manner of fish and seafood dishes.It’s got pristine beaches, one of the world’s biggest electronic music festivals along with stunning architectural masterpieces and delicious cuisines. Being situated on the west coast of India, Goa’s main cuisine is seafood.

However, there are so many standalone seafood dishes that also contain the essence of Goan flavours. Every seafood dish is a palate pleaser, no matter what spices it is cooked with or what procedure has been used.

Lets explore some tasty seafood in Goa:

1.Mackerel Recheado-Recheado mackerels are a Goan seafood delight! Crispy pan-fried mackerel fish stuffed with the quintessential Goan spice paste is much loved by every Goan. Bangdo is the Konkani word for mackerel fish.Recheado masala (also known as rachead masala) is a fiery and tangy paste from Goa. Traditionally used with fish, it can also be used with chicken or vegetables. It's wonderful here with fresh mackerel and a crisp katchumber salad.

2.Crab Xacuti-If you love crabs and also love Goan cuisine, you should surely explore this delicious Goan Crab Curry Recipe. It is also known as crab xacuti. It uses the authentic Goan curry masala, the recipe for which I had shared in an earlier post. If you make the curry paste ahead of time, this crab curry recipe becomes super easy and is ready in no time

3.Mussels Rava Fry-Goan mussels rava fry is a popular delicacy found in most beach shacks and restaurants all over Goa, India! Mussels are called xinaneao in Konkani. This is a super simple appetizer that requires minimal ingredients and yet delivers irresistibly delicious end results. 

4.Prawns Balchao-Prawn Balchao is a traditional Goan dish that is typically enjoyed in the rainy season. The prawns are cooked in an array of spices to give you a melange of flavours and take you on a taste ride like none other. The gravy is spicy-mildly tangy in taste which will make you want more of it with each bite you take. 

5.Squids(Calamari) Masala Fry-Calamari are known as squids in India, they are called mankio in Konkani. Recheado squid fry or chilli fry as it is also known is one of the most popular Goan style squid recipes. It is ubiquitous on the menu of most Goan beach shacks. This spicy calamari appetizer, chilled beverage of choice, good company, blue waters, white sand!! Simple joys in life!

6.Shark Ambot Tik-A popular fish of choice for this curry is shark fish. The spice of this curry is well balanced with the tamarind and vinegar which forms the basis for the sour component

Famous Drinks Of Goa

  Famous drinks of Goa

Non Alchololic drinks of Goa:

So now we have done with the famous places, beaches, churches of Goa  Refresh yourself with  coolers of Goa.

1.Sweet lime Soda:

Image Courtesy Google.

Sweet Lime Soda Recipe is a refreshing drink that can be userved in any parties for a welcome drink of Goa.It refreshes you on a hot day .

This drink keeps you hydrated on your sunny day on Beaches.

Lassi : Sweet Lassi, a yogurt based creamy, sweetened and chilled beverage from Punjabi cuisine is a popular drink in NorthGoa.It is usually served after the meal or in the afternoon during the hot summer days as a cooling beverage.

Image Courtesy Google.

Sugar Cane Juice: The sugar cane juice is mostly sold on the roadside stalls.Its a best natural energy drink you can find on streets of Goa.Its sweet 8freyellowish green colour drink which keeps you fresh on hot days in Goa.

Image Courtesy by Google

Green Coconut Water: You are walking along the beaches of Goa and you miss Coconut water its immposible . It is a delicious and refreshing low-calorie drink Tender cocounut water is more nutricious  than mature coconut water.

Image Courtesy Google

Kokum Sharbat :Kokum juice is a popular drink from Goa. Kokum, also called Malabar Tamarind, is known for its digestive qualities and is a rich source of vitamins. It is an essential part of the Goan cuisine, and can be found across the recipes from all other regions of the Konkan  coast.

Sol kadi : Sol Kadhi is an authentic delicacy in Goa. As many of the local people relish this as a refreshing drink. It can also be served as a curry with your everyday meals.Its made with coconut milk and kokum juice. Its one of the best digestive drink after meals.

Famous Alcholic drinks of Goa:

Image courtesy from facebook /Wood Burns whisky.

1. Woodburns Whisky: Woodburns, a Goan whisky, is a full-bodied concoction of smoky flavour and has a balanced peated malt finish. 

This whisky is made with all Indian ingredients, with no trace of foreign malts or scotch from any part of the world but Goa.

2. Paul John Whisky 

Image courtesy from facebook/ Pauls whisky.

 Paul John Whisky: This is widely imported liquor has rightly earned the title of the ‘great Indian single malt’. Barley from the low Himalayan foothills is double distilled in copper pots and matured in American white oak barrelss The spirit also incorporates distinct flavours, such as chocolate, coconut, spices, marmalade, dry fruits and honey. 

3.  White Rum With Coconut

Image Courtesy: Facebook/ Cabo White Rum with Coconut Liqueur

With a flavour profile similar to the Caribbean rum Malibu, Cabo is basically a coconut liqueur. Made using a blend of coconut extract and white rum, it has a distinctly sweet taste with a strong hit of coconut in flavour and aroma. You can consume Cabo either on the rocks as a liqueur post a meal, as light rum in a cocktail such as piña colada.

4.Cazulo Premium Feni

4. Cazulo Premium Feni:Cazulo Premium Feni Experience is an all-new way to discover the world of Feni .This feni is only manufactured in Goa and made from either cashew or coconut. Cashew feni is obtained from the ripe fruit, which is stomped on to extract the juice, which is then fermented and distilled. Coconut feni, on the other hand, comes from the juice, known as toddy, collected from the bud of the palm tree flower, which follows the same maturation process as the cashew variant. Sourced from local distillers.

Image Courtesy: Facebook/ Fazenda Cazulo.

5.Kingfisher Beer

Image Courtesy by Google.

Kingfisher Beer

The most renowned beer also available in Goa is the perfect sip you need with curry. The beer can literally be found in every retailer around the city and is not very pricey too. One can pick one for a ride down the church lanes or simply whilst sitting feet dipped in the sandy waters.

6.Sula wine 

Image Courtesy from Google.
2. Sula Wine: It is one of the best drinks in goa, the Sula wine is one of the very few best products of the infant wine industry in India. They produce all the variety you can think of from reds, whites, and rosé to sparkling and dessert wines. The wine is known for its superior quality and rich taste.

Goa-Traditional Jewellery

 Goa’s unique crafts and traditional jewellery styles tell us that unlike its image as a holiday destination, it is a state of craftsmanship with the oldest crafts history in the country.Goa's traditional jewellery is very graceful and enchanting and attracts a lot of people because of its beauty. Goan jewellery comes in astounding variety, something that will leave you spoilt for choice.

Goan jewellery was introduced to the world by “Daivadnya Brahmins” who were known for their skills of jewellery designing.In fact, they were the first ones to introduce Goan traditional jewellery designs to Europe.

Similarity between Goan and Maharastrian Jewellery:There’s a lot of similarity between Goan jewellery and the konkan jewellery of Maharashtra.

Both regions have a lot of similar designs in the categories of Earrings, Nose as well as neck jewellery.Styles such as Pake (earrings), Nathini (nose pin), Tode, and Pichodi (bangles) are common in both Goan and Konkani traditional jewellery.

Let us take look at some of the traditional jewelleries of Goa:

1.Bajuband-As the name suggests, Bajubandh is an armlet that is worn on the upper arms by women.A traditional Goan bajubandh is made of Gold. It consists of floral and peacock motifs that are crafted with utmost precision by the local Artisans.Some of the Bajubandh designs even include figures of Goan forest deities such as Kelbai, Bramhini mai, Vetal, Mahishasurmardini.

Image credit-zamroo.com

2.Goth-These are the traditional Goan bangles. Made with Gold, a traditional Goth has a sleek design and is adorned with floral motifs that are crafted by the Artisans.

Image credit-zerokaata.com

3.Tode-These are chunky Gold bangles that are adorned by Goan women on a festive occasion, pooja, or at a wedding

Image credit-zerokaata.com

4.Pichodi-A traditional Pichodi design consists of Pearls or Gold motifs arranged in the form of a crown.The more expensive designs can have gemstones instead of Gold motifs and pearls.

5.Piddukachi Kakna-These are the beaded gold bangles. The traditional design includes Gold motifs with a combination of different colored beads such as orange, black, red, etc.Piddukachi bangles are very lightweight; therefore can be worn for hours without getting uncomfortable.

6.Coin Bangles-The coins have the symbols of religious figures of Goan forest deities such as Kelbai, Bramhini mai, Vetal, Mahishasurmardini.These bangles are also lightweight; therefore, they are worn by women on a daily basis

7.Galsiri-This is a coin necklace. A traditional Galsiri consists of coral and gold beads strung in a gold chain (with a thread fastening) and Gold coins.A Galsiri can have a single or double layer of coins set in the Gold chain.

8.Kasithaali-Mangalsutra worn by Goan brides is called “Kasithaali”.The pendant is adorned with a religious figure such as Goddess Lakshmi.

9.Nathani-A traditional Gold Nathini consists of pearls and pink or white stone in the middle (sometimes a precious gemstone such as Rubie or Emerald in the middle).

10.Pake-A pair of traditional Pake is made of Gold and it consists of floral motifs along with pearls strung together to form a mesh-like pattern

St. Francis Xavier Feast Goa

The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is an important holiday that is observed by devout Christians all over the world. In India, it is a regional public holiday in the state of Goa. It is observed on 3 December every year.

This feast is celebrated every year in Old Goa at the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Preceding the feast 9 days of Novenas are held and attended by pilgrims from all over the world. There is a grand fair where stalls selling sweetmeats, toys, and clothing line the streets.

Francis was born in Xavier, He was born in rich farmer Family.Francis went to study in Paris, where he met Ignatius of Loyola, who would convince Francis to follow a religious life and become a priest.

Francis left Rome for the Indies in March 1540. His future as arguably the greatest Christian missionary since St. Paul began almost by accident. He wasn't originally chosen to be a missionary, but one of the two originally selected by Ignatius fell ill, so Ignatius asked Francis to go as a replacement.

He was the first Christian missionary to travel Japan and on to Borneo and the Moluccan Islands.

 Francis was waiting to travel to take his missionary work to mainland China when he died from a fever on Shangchuan Island on December 2nd 1552.Francis was made a saint by Gregory XV on March 12th 1622.Saint Francis Xavier's relics are kept in a silver casket, inside the Bom Jesus Basilica in Goa.

Legends about this great Saint says that he had a healing power and his body has not decomposed even after 5 centuries of his death. Every ten years until 1994, on the anniversary of his death, St Xavier s dead body  was brought out and kept in a glass case, with the feet exposed, for all to see and worship. For the exposition, people from all over India flocked to the church for a glimpse of the saint.

The last exposition was held in 1994. Since the condition of the body had deteriorated visibly, now the body is not displayed.

People still visit the Church of Bom Jesus in Goa every year to celebrate the Feast of St. Francis Xavier and the pilgrimage turns into a picnic for quite a few families, as they shop in the little lanes decorated with streamers. The ambiance of the church site is happy and festive.

Cuisnie of Goa

Goan cuisine is really palatable satisfying the gluttony of anyone, especially a gourmet or connoisseur. If you belong to the above category and you are making a trip to Goa, then you have made the right choice. The cuisine in Goa is a perfect blend of diverse food cultures - the Konkan, the Portuguese and the Bahamani Nawabi traditions. When you travel to Goa, you will find Goan food is simple but also very hot and spicy.As imported wines and spirits can be particularly expensive in India due to hefty import taxes, local spirits and beers are often a popular choice for tourists visiting Goa.

Some of the famous dishes of Goa are:

• Goan Fish Curry. ...
• Chicken Cafreal. ...
• Goan Pork Vindaloo. ...
• Chicken Xacuti. ...
• Shark Ambot Tik. ...
• Sorpotel. ...
• Feijoada. ...
• Sorak.
• Filled with flavour and spice, once you've tasted the Goan food, it is surely going to make it on your favourites list

Handicrafts of Goa

 Handicrafts of GOA.

     

The crafts of Goa are intricately astonishing, capturing the fancies of tourists and locals alike. These crafts are a mirror of Goa’s perennial beauty. Handicrafts of Goa include shell work, creative pottery, brass work, furniture, bamboo work, paper mache, etc.

Terracota and Pottery.

Terracotta Pottery
One of the arts that continues to lend character to Goan homes and in which each art piece is known for its artistic finish is terracotta pottery. It includes items such as pen holders, decorative flower pots, floral designs, ashtrays and figurines of saints and gods and it is also one of the earliest arts known to mankind.

Seashell Craft
Beaches in Goa are a shell collector's delight and seashell craft has become a full-fledged art with recent design innovations. Some of the items produced are chandeliers, lampshades, curtains, coasters, mirror frames, ashtrays etc.

Woodcarving
This intricate art that has adapted well to the changing times and is constantly evolving is one of the best examples of eastern and western influences on Goan culture. Items such as photo frames, idols, mirror frames, book shelves and boxes are carved by the Goan craftsmen today.

Brassware
This traditional profession uses ancient techniques to create stunning metal items. Oil lamps, candle holders, church bells and more are sculpted into designs that meld the traditional with the modern.

Bamboo craft
An old Goan technique— this sees bamboo converted into objects of daily use. From pots to baskets to candle stands, this durable wood is fashioned into numerous different objects using traditional bamboo.

Coconut mask and Sea shell craft.

Mask  carving is wonderful craft in Goa

As it is done on Cocount  frames.

This is an extraordinary piece of artwork. Seashell craft is a major art form of Goa. Converting them into extraordinary pieces of work. Shells of various sizes, shapes and shades are used in the making of ornaments like necklaces, rings, bracelets and brooches. The product range also includes decorative cum utility objects like ashtrays, lampshades, coasters, chandeliers, curtains, pot hangers, tablemats, clocks and mirror frame.

Jute Macrame Craft.                                  Jute Craft  is known one of the most unique crafts  of India and items such as decorative bags,belts,wall hanging ,lamp shades flower pots,hangers,etc Similar to other craft of Goa, this art  also exhibits a blend of Portuguese and Indian culture.

Products made with macram include decorative bags, belts, wall hanging, lampshades, flowerpots and hangers. Goa being an important tourist destination, these products serves as valuable souvenirs.

So enhances your experience in Goa after exploring this beautiful crafts in Goa.

Image courtesy from Google.

Cashews of Goa.

 Goa's famous dry fruits

The significance of the cashew to the Goan economy is equivalent to that of the coconut palm. It is the most sought after commercial crop and is widely grown especially for its nuts and juice whether natural or fermented to produce feni.

Goa with a production of 24,396 tonnes of raw cashew nuts from an area of 56735 hectares stands in sixth position both in area and production in India during 2016-17. The productivity of cashew trees in the state is 430 kg / ha which is less than the national average of 748 kg/ ha.

It is also national fruit of Goa.Goa's production is more than what processing capacity is installed in the State. Actual Goan cashew is more expensive and you get a premium only when you sell it in Goa. Outside Goa people are not ready to pay a premium for Goan cashew nuts.

Feni is a traditional liquor distilled from the fermented juice of cashew apples.It is safe to drink as it is free from organic or artificial flavors. The name "feni" is derived from the Sanskrit word phena which actually means froth. It is due to the fact that bubbles form a light froth when the liquor is shaken in a bottle or poured in a glass. Feni is a part of Goa food tradition from the last 400 years. 

Feni warms up the body and cleanses the respiratory system more effectively than cough syrups.

Feni can be served neat or over ice, and can be mixed in classic cocktails or with juices. It can be served with a slice of lime, and sometimes with sugar or sugar syrup, which are popular additions. Cazulo. Cazulo are the makers of some of Goa's finest feni.

Cashews are low in sugar and rich in fiber, heart-healthy fats, and plant protein. They're also a good source of copper, magnesium, and manganese — nutrients important for energy production, brain health, immunity, and bone health.

The significance of the cashew to the Goan economy is equivalent to that of the coconut palm. It is the most sought after commercial crop and is widely grown especially for its nuts and juice whether natural or fermented to produce feni.

It is a major contributor to the foreign market specially because of its salted and roasted nuts which are enjoyed all over the world. Cashew nuts from Goa are exported in millions abroad and in a large way, boost foreign trade.

So whenever you visit Goa do not forget to fetch some Cashews for your loved ones.

Note: Image courtesy from Google.

Watersports of Goa

 

With a lenghty coastline,breezy beaches,blue skies,and amazing party days,Goa provides ample of adventure oppurtunities to every adventure enthuasists.Regardless of whether it's fun, excitement, sunshine, mysticism, or just unwinding, you don't have to look past the transcendent abode of Goa. Goa is a heaven for water sports junkies. The long coastline of Goa offers astounding chances to enjoy in a wide range of Water Sports in Goa.Make sure you try as many as you can out of the best ones to get the best of this exciting land!

Best 6 watersports in Goa:

1.Great Island Goa Scuba diving-Delve deep into the gigantic coral reefs and be enamoured by the scintillating underwater life as you go scuba diving in Goa. .Don't worry about never having done this before, you will be trained by professionals who will help you acclimatize yourself to the world underwater.

2.Kayaking:Operating out of Chicalim, Goa Kayaking specialises in Kayaking and canoeing excursions along the coast, rivers and backwaters in Goa.Enjoy floating in the lazy white waters or wading through the thrilling river rapids.

3.Snorkeling-Snorkeling is a water sport or activity of swimming through water or on the water while having snorkeling equipment.You will be packed with safety equipment and guided by an instructor, you will be taken to the aquatic world.Wherever you try it, you will surely be mesmerized by the colorful corals, fishes and the humpback dolphins.

4.Jet Skiing:Jet Ski ride in Goa is a standout amongst the most energizing and exciting water games to participate in.The average power of a Jet Ski is 100-135 hp and the perk of this machine is that you do not need to be an expert in riding them.All the Jet Skiing enthusiasts can go for a ride on the beaches like Baga, Anjuna, Calangute, Colva, and Candolim.

5.Parasailing In Goa:parasailor will be flying up in the sky with a parachute and the control is in the hands of the speedboat below.Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Majestic Fort Aguada while trying out this sport. Parasailing can be thoroughly enjoyed at various beaches namely, Anjuna Beach, Baga Beach, Calangute Beach, Majorda Beach, Dona Paula Beach and Candolim Beach.

6.Banana Tube Boat Ride:The crystal clear waters, blue skies, and high speeds will keep you enthralled and excited in longing for more of the Banana ride in Goa.An inflatable bright yellow boat that resembles the shape of a banana is used and it is linked to a speed boat. 4-6 people are allowed to be seated in a banana boat. It bounces oddly off the playful waves. Then the boat throws off as soon as the speed boat rushes across the sea.You will surely love the speed with which it brushes on the surface of the water.

Images credits-Google.

Bars and clubs in Goa

Bars and Restaurant.

Go Goa Go. The exotic locales of Goa may tempt you with its beaches, full-moon parties, and beachside revelries. But then there are bars too, with their intoxicating charm beckoning you to be there in the midst of glitz and glamour, to be in the company of your pals, or to enjoy the nightlife in supreme solitude.

Some of the best bars to visit in Goa are:

1.LPK Waterfront-Love Passion Karma is one of the most exotic clubs in Goa. The name of the club rightly describes the ambiance and the interiors of the club.The architecture is historical with music that is post-modern. Saturday is the best day to hit LPK for a great way to spend your Saturday night in Goa. It's one of the best night clubs in North Goa - we just can't deny that

Location-On banks of river Nerul,Candolim

Timings-9:30pm-3:30am

Image credit-make my trip

2.Tito's-Tito’s nightclubs, The Club and Retro Bar, offer state of the art design and cater to both international and domestic tourists flocking to Goa. The Club, also known as Club Bollywood, caters to commercial and Bollywood music fans, with a huge dance floor to accommodate its large crowds.

Location-Tito's Lane,Baga

Timings-9:00pm-4:00am

3.Cafe Mojo-The pub has a fun ambience, a variety of beers to hold your interest and is open till 4am so you can come in after your evening revelries and just stick around for some late night beer and snacks.The old English decor, the prompt and friendly service and the karaoke nights are some reasons we keep going back to Cafe Mojo.

Location-Panaji,Goa

Timings-11am-5:00am

4.Cape Town Cafe-Cape Town Cafe is the hippest place in Goa with a cafe and a nightclub in North Goa. You get the feel of a sports pub, a restaurant and a club all rolled into one at Cape Town Cafe. International DJ along with the local DJ play here that makes the crowd go crazy. There are multiple TV screens with the latest games shown, while their big well stocked bar will keep your spirits higher

Location-Baga,Tito's Lane

Timings-6:00pm-4:00am

5.Hilltop-Legendary Hilltop Nightclub is a cult place for everyone, for who Goa and Goa-trance music means one and the same, or nearly the same thing. Especially on New Year nights, the number of tourists )both national and international sometimes reach the heights of 2 to 2.5 k.Hilltop Nightclub often becomes a place of music experiments conducted by most famous trance-music DJ’s.

Location-Vagator

Timings-4:00pm-10:00pm

6.Kamaki-This place offers a perfect blend of great DJs, live music as well as live performances by musicians playing retro tracks as well as some soothing old school music. These live performances are generally held out in the bars whereas the inside of the club plays some fast and energetic music for the guests to enjoy.

Location-Tito's Lane,Baga

Timings-6:00pm-4:00am

Image credits-Google