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The Christmas season in Goa is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Known for its beautiful beaches and Portuguese-inspired culture, Goa comes alive during December with colourful decorations, melodious carols, and a festive spirit that is infectious. At the heart of these celebrations is food, particularly the array of sweets that adorn every Goan household. These traditional delicacies are lovingly prepared, often with recipes passed down through generations, and are an essential part of the festivities.
Video Credits: Captain Mama's Kitchen/ YouTube
The sweets served during Christmas in Goa are more than just desserts; they reflect Goa’s unique blend of Indian and Portuguese culinary influences. Many of these treats are prepared during the festive season as part of the traditional Kuswar, a collection of Christmas goodies shared with friends and family. In this article, explore some of the most beloved Goan Christmas sweets that add a touch of sweetness to this joyous season.
Bebinca
Bebinca is often referred to as the "queen of Goan desserts" and is a staple during Christmas. This rich, multi-layered pudding is made from simple ingredients like coconut milk, eggs, sugar, and flour. What sets Bebinca apart is the labour-intensive process of layering, where each layer is baked individually to create its distinctive texture and taste.
The dessert’s caramelised top and soft, melt-in-the-mouth layers make it a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Bebinca pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of strong black coffee, making it a must-have during the festive season.
Image Credits: Freepik
Nevris
Nevris, also known as Gujiya in other parts of India, are crescent-shaped fried pastries filled with a sweet coconut and jaggery mixture. These golden delights are crispy on the outside and have a deliciously chewy filling.
The preparation of Nevris is a communal activity in many Goan households, with family members coming together to shape and fry these festive treats. They are often packed in boxes as part of Kuswar and shared with loved ones as a symbol of goodwill and celebration.
Doce Dae Grao
Doce Dae Grao is a soft and fudge-like sweet made from chickpeas, coconut, and sugar. The name translates to "sweet made of gram" in Portuguese, reflecting its origins.
Preparing Doce Dae Grao requires patience and precision as the mixture is cooked slowly to achieve the right consistency. The result is a beautifully textured sweet that is cut into diamond shapes and served. Its delicate flavour and unique texture make it a cherished part of Goan Christmas celebrations.
Image Credits: Freepik
Serradura
Serradura, meaning "sawdust" in Portuguese, is a no-bake dessert that is as simple as it is delicious. This creamy pudding is made with layers of crushed biscuits and sweetened whipped cream or condensed milk.
Often served chilled, Serradura is a light and refreshing contrast to the richer Christmas sweets. Its easy preparation and delightful taste have made it increasingly popular in Goan households during the festive season.
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Bolinhas
Bolinhas are coconut cookies that are a perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee. Made with grated coconut, semolina, and sugar, these cookies are soft, crumbly, and have a distinct coconut flavour.
The dough is shaped into small rounds and baked until golden brown, resulting in a treat that is both satisfying and nostalgic. Bolinhas are a staple in Kuswar, adding variety to the assortment of Goan Christmas sweets.
Gons
Gons are chewy coconut toffees that are a favourite among children and adults alike. Made with coconut, jaggery, and a hint of cardamom, Gons are cooked until the mixture thickens and then shaped into small pieces.
These bite-sized delights are often included in Kuswar platters and are cherished for their simplicity and intense flavour. Gons are a testament to the resourcefulness of traditional Goan cooking, turning humble ingredients into festive treats.
Also Read: 10 Delightful Christmas Snacks For Kids
Rose Cookies
Rose Cookies, or Rosettes, are a festive favourite not just in Goa but across India. Made using a special rose-shaped mould, these deep-fried cookies are light, crispy, and beautifully patterned.
The batter, made from flour, sugar, and coconut milk, is dipped into the mould and then fried until golden. The result is a delicate, flower-shaped cookie that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Rose Cookies are a highlight of Kuswar and are often made in large batches to share with family and friends.
