Being a vegetarian tourist in Goa is often seen with a skeptical eye, owing to the mass expanses of fish-based delicacies and crab-meat dishes available here. However, the beach state always has magic hidden in its sleeves! Here’s a quick guide on how to survive as a vegetarian foodie in the western state. By Bayar Jain
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Dubbed as the party capital of India, Goa has long invited travellers into its welcoming homes. After all, with beaches dotted along its blue shores on one end and the calm lush greens on the other, it comes as no surprise why the state is often the go-to vacation destination in India. Pair this with the plethora of food options up for grabs here, and you’ve found yourself a dream holiday.
However, being a beachside state, Goa is often seen synonymously with seafood such as crab meat, kingfish, prawns, squids and more. If not for seafood, Goan pork vindaloo tends to steal the spotlight. Vegetarians – as per common perception – are often left bewildered and struggling for options. However, its time to bust this myth, explore the plant-loving side of the state, and dig into Goan foods that are sure to satiate every vegetarian’s roaring stomachs.
1. Goan Khatkhate
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Doubling as the state’s version of a stew, the Goan Khatkhate is essentially toor dal meets chana dal with a blessing of carrots, potatoes, greens beans, and drumsticks to heighten the flavour. Additions of grated coconut, jaggery, kokum, tamarind, and more spices complete this flavourful curry. Often, seasonal vegetables such as pumpkins, corn, sweet potatoes and more could also be added to the mix. If you’re looking to eat it with an added dose of indulgence, don’t forget to request for a spoonful of ghee as a garnish!
Where to eat: The aptly named Mum’s Kitchen in Miramar, Goa cooks up a deliciously hearty serving of Goan Khatkhate (Khatkhatem in the menu). The mixed vegetable curry is priced at INR 485 at this Goan eatery.
2. Kokum juice
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Although this isn’t strictly something you can eat, the purple-hued drink is a must when you’re in this beach state. Doubling as an apt respite from the summer sun of Goa, kokum – also called Malabar Tamarind – is famous for its digestive properties. It’s sweet-tangy flavours lend itself to becoming a favoured drink here. While the fruit itself finds a spot as an ingredient in various dishes, the juiced version of it is the most ubiquitously found variation of it.
Where to drink: A mocktail version of the classic kokum juice is available at The Fisherman’s Wharf in Panaji. Here, the water is replaced with soda, but the tanginess of the fruit prevails nonetheless. The drink is priced at INR 255 here.
3. Alsande Biya Tondak
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Cooked in coconut curry, this typical Goan dish brings together flavours of red cow beans and cashew nuts on your plate. Traditionally, this leguminous dish is served with pao – a staple bun of the state. However, catering to the influx of various flavour profiles of the tourists thronging the state, rice or roti is also served. Cooked with garlic and lots of savoury undertones, this Goan curry will urge you to go for seconds… and thirds!
Where to eat: This wholesome curry is available for INR 145 at Spice Goa, a casual eatery in Mapusa.
4. Ansache Sasav
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Blessed with pineapple trees aplenty, it’s only natural for the tropical fruit to find its way onto the Goan dining table as well. Literally translating to pineapple curry in Konkani, this sweet-sour dish is a common element in Hindu festivals and weddings. Adding to the tanginess is the skilful balance of local spices, oodles of mustard, and an accompanying plate of rice.
Where to eat: Although this delicacy is best enjoyed during the festivities, you can gorge on a scrumptious plate of this curry at Soi in Candolim for INR 230.
5. Vegetarian Caldin
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If you’re one to stray away from vegetables and prefer cheesy alternatives in your meals, then this one is bound to change your mind. Speckled with oodles of local assorted vegetables and cooked in coconut milk, caldin is typical of Goa. The creamy dish is balanced with freshly chopped green chillies, garlic, and a hit of pepper. Within minutes, the smooth curry will find a place in your hearts.
Where to eat: Priced at INR 345, Assagao’s Jamun serves this local Goan delicacy. Pair this with a poi bread for the epitome of indulgence.
Related: Believe It Or Not, There’s A Village In Goa That Disappears For 11 Months A Year
Bayar Jain
Senior Content Manager
Equipped with a degree in Sociology (Honours) from the University of Delhi and a postgraduate diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai, Bayar enjoys sharing stories of people, places, and different cultures. When not typing her travel tales, you can catch the hobbyist photographer capturing the next frame, dabbling in arts and crafts, or gushing over puppies and kittens.
