By Krati Purwar
June 23, 2024
On June 24, Catholic communities across Goa gather to celebrate São João festival of which food and music are a big part. Households prepare traditional delicacies showcasing the regional culinary heritage. Here are seven must-try Goan dishes while you celebrate Sao Joao.
Chorizo pao is a snack prepared by stuffing freshly baked pao with spiced chorizo sausages. It tastes delicious and can be a part of the festive spread.
Patoleo is a steamed parcel made by stuffing rice flour dough with a coconut jaggery mixture. It is later wrapped in turmeric leaves and cooked.
Ponsache holle is a sweet Goan delicacy in which rice flour batter, comprising coconut and jaggery, is poured into jackfruit leaves. It is served along with fresh fruits.
Bebinca is a traditional sweet flaunting seven or more layers. It needs ingredients like coconut juice, maida, and eggs and can take 4-5 hours to cook.
Sorpotel is a Portuguese preparation of various parts of pork cooked together. It is served with sanna, which is steamed rice and coconut bread.
Tangy and fiery prawns are also a part of the festive spread during Sao Joao celebrations. This dish is often accompanied by steamed rice or sannas.
Feijoada is a stew that consists of pork, beans, and chorizo. Its roots lie in Portuguese cuisine, and it pairs well with bread and rice.