Goa Cuisine is a blend of different influences, and
although the staple diet is fish, true for Hindus and Catholics, a vast
difference in the foods consumed by these two communities exists.
This is mainly because Christians eat beef and pork which are taboo for
followers of Hinduism. Many Christian dishes are also influenced by the
long period of Portuguese rule, and that of Middle East and Hindu
Kingdoms, while the Hindu dishes seem to have remained true to their
original form.
Goan Cuisine is largely non-vegetarian. The meal typically consists of
seafood, pork and chicken. Portuguese influence is visible in the dishes
of Caldeirada, Racheiado and Cabidela. Pork is a must for any Christian
festive occasion with Pork Vindaloo being the most famous preparation.
It is a spicy concoction with plenty of red chillies, garlic, cooked
with chunks of pork, Goa vinegar, hard palm jaggery, and is best enjoyed
with rice.
A wide choice of dining options exists throughout Goa, ranging from
restaurants in the five star hotels to numerous little family run
eateries and beach shacks that offer mouth-watering cuisine in both
local and western styles.
