Goa, the picturesque coastal state in western India, is known for its vibrant and delectable tapestry of flavours that reflect its rich history, diverse culture, and abundant natural resources. Known for its fusion of Indian, Portuguese, and Konkani influences, Goan cuisine is a tantalising journey for the taste buds, offering a wide range of dishes that cater to various palates.
Apart from spending high-quality time by the beach, admiring a beautiful sunset, and most importantly, roaming around on a two-wheeler, indulging in soul-stirring food becomes one of the priorities. However, whenever we think of Goan cuisine, a wide range of seafood recipes come to mind. Although they taste excellent, we generally miss out on other delicious non-vegetarian items.
If you are planning to go to Goa and try some of the authentic non-vegetarian dishes, we have a list prepared for you. These 7 non-vegetarian dishes will give you an idea of the wide range of Goan cuisine. Take a look:
- Goan Egg Curry
Although there are a variety of egg curries, this Goan egg curry stands out. This curry features hard-boiled eggs gently simmered in a rich and fragrant gravy made from a blend of roasted spices, coconut cream, poppy seeds, and a base of tamarind and onions. Its hint of sweetness makes it a mouthwatering and satisfying addition to Goan culinary traditions. It can be paired well with steamed rice or flatbread.
- Chicken Vindaloo
Known for its intense flavours and aromatic spices, this dish is a testament to Goa's rich culinary heritage, which combines Indian and Portuguese influences. Chicken pieces are marinated in a distinctive paste made from a blend of red chilies, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and spices, including cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Chicken vindaloo offers a tantalising balance of sweet, sour, and spicy notes that dance on the taste buds, making it a favourite among lovers of bold and aromatic curries.
- Prawn Balchao
The word "balchao" is believed to have its origins in Portuguese cuisine, signifying a spicy pickle. This is a traditional Goan dish that is typically enjoyed in the rainy season. The prawns are cooked in an array of spices, giving your taste buds a blend of flavours like none other. The gravy is spicy and mildly tangy in taste. The dish can be served as a side or a main course and is typically accompanied by plain steamed rice or flatbread.
- Pork Sorpotel
This traditional Goan delicacy is a testament to the region's unique culinary heritage, blending Indian and Portuguese influences. The dish is known for its complexity and the balance of sweet, sour, and spicy notes. Pork sorpotel is a beloved centrepiece during festive occasions and celebrations, often paired with sannas (steamed rice cakes) or crusty bread.
- Goan Chicken Cutlet
This is a delightful and savoury snack that showcases the vibrant flavours of Goan cuisine in a convenient and appetising form. These cutlets are a popular street food and snack choice, loved for their crisp exterior and flavorful filling. These cutlets often carry a hint of heat from the use of red chilies and a tangy touch from vinegar, reflecting Goan cuisine's characteristic bold and balanced flavors. It is usually served with a side of chutney or ketchup.
- Chorizo Pulao
Chorizo Pulao is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines the smoky, spicy goodness of chorizo sausage with fragrant rice in a single, satisfying meal. Hailing from Goa, which had a strong influence on Portuguese cuisine, this dish is a testament to the fusion of flavours and cultural influences in Indian cooking. Chorizo sausage, typically made with a blend of pork, spices, and vinegar, imparts a rich and robust flavour to the rice. It's often served with a side of raita or a cooling cucumber salad to balance the dish's smoky and spicy profile.
- Caldeirada
This Goan dish is a Portuguese-inspired fish stew that encapsulates the essence of coastal cuisine. Caldeirada typically features a variety of fish, such as cod, haddock, or monkfish, along with other ingredients like potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers. These elements are simmered together in a fragrant broth, often flavoured with white wine, garlic, and aromatic herbs. The result is a delectable medley of tender fish and vegetables with a hint of Mediterranean spices.
- Ros Omelette
Ros omelette is a beloved street food in Goa. This delightful creation combines the simplicity of an omelette with the flavorful and spicy goodness of a robust curry known as "ras." The omelette, made with eggs, chopped onions, green chilies, and cilantro, is pan-fried to perfection and submerged in a flavourful and tangy curry made from coconut milk, mustard seeds, and spices. Locally it is known as ‘ros’ and is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack.