Among the many delicacies that Goan cuisine has to offer, one that stands out the most is the iconic Goan sausage, or chorizo. So, if you want to explore the history, types, and unique flavors of it, along with tips on where to find them and how to enjoy them, keep reading.
The History of Goa Sausages
Goan sausages have a rich history, dating back to the colonial era when the Portuguese ruled Goa. The Portuguese brought with them the art of sausage-making, which was then adapted to the local ingredients and flavors, giving birth to the unique Goan sausages. The traditional Goan sausages are made with pork, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and red chilies. The sausages are then smoked and dried, giving them a distinct flavor and aroma.
Goa Sausages, a.k.a. Chorizo or Choris
Goan pork sausages are made from raw and fatty pork meat along with local spices. These sausages are unique in flavor and are known as chouriços or choris. The term 'sausage' originated from the Latin word "salsus," which means salted, and was initially used for cured or salted meat. While Goan sausages are inspired by the Portuguese chorizo, they are not the same as the smoked charcuterie of the West. Chorizo was brought to Goa by the Portuguese in 1510, and the Christians of Goa embraced it, making pork a popular ingredient.
Recipe for Goan Sausages
The original recipe for Portuguese chorizo, which is a fermented and cured sausage with a red color from smoked peppers, was changed to fit the tastes of people in Goa and the ingredients that were available there. Now, Goan sausages have garlic, spices, and toddy vinegar in them, which gives them a unique flavor and makes them stand out. Meanwhile, Goan pork sausages are chunky pieces of pork with just the right amount of spice, while chorizo is a type of cured meat that resembles fiery red torpedoes and is ideal for long sea voyages. During the monsoon season, when fishing is difficult, locals turn to pork sausages as an alternative source of protein.
Types of Goan Sausages
In the past ten years, smoking choris has become much more common than sun-drying and smoking it. In Goa, there is a difference between the north and south regions when it comes to choris.
Rosary sausages
These are small and red and named after a Catholic rosary. They are the most popular variety in South Goa. In the Madgaon market, women who make them at home individually sell them. The larger "King size" sausages are made to order.
Horse-shoe sausages
In North Goa, the larger horseshoe-shaped sausages are more prevalent. Although less colorful, they have a higher ratio of spices to meat, resulting in a stronger flavor. Some people believe that these sausages are based on alheira, which are chicken sausages shaped like a horseshoe and were made by Portuguese Jews during the Inquisition.
Iconic places to buy authentic Goan sausages
To purchase these sausages, the best places to go are Mapusa and Margao Markets. However, if you're looking for a unique smoky flavor, Antonia Da Silva from Velha Goa is a famous sausage maker who smokes the cured sausages with special wood chips for two days, resulting in delicious sausages. For those who missed out on buying them last time, Pedro Pao, a small Goa-based e-business, now offers homemade chorizo and other Goan delicacies online for delivery to your doorstep.
Cooking with Goan Sausages: Traditional and Modern Recipes
Goan sausages are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from traditional curries to modern fusion dishes. Here are some traditional and modern recipes that you can try with Goan sausages:
• Chorizo Pulau: This is a popular Goan dish that is made with chorizo and rice. The dish is spicy due to the Goan sausages, which add an extra layer of flavor and texture to it.
• Chorizo Pav: Chorizo Pav is a popular street food in Goa. The pav is stuffed with Goan sausages, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of sauces and spices. They are perfect for a quick and delicious snack.
• Goan Sausage Pizza: Goan Sausage Pizza is a modern fusion recipe that combines the flavors of Goan sausages with the classic Italian pizza. The pizza is made with a tomato sauce base, mozzarella cheese, and Goan sausages, and is topped with onions, peppers, and olives.
Pairing Goan Sausages with Drinks
Goan sausages pair well with a variety of drinks, from beer to wine. The smoky and spicy flavors of Goan sausages complement the flavors of beer and wine, making them a great choice for a snack or a meal. Some of the best drinks to pair with Goan sausages are:
• Beer: Goan sausages pair well with beer, especially light and crisp beers such as pilsners and lagers. The carbonation and bitterness of the beer help balance the spiciness of the sausages.
• Red Wine: Goan sausages also pair well with red wine, especially full-bodied wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. The bold flavors of the wine complement the smoky and spicy flavors of the sausages.