The holy month of Shravan holds deep spiritual meaning across India, and in Goa, it marks a period of simplicity, devotion, and sattvik (pure) living. For many Goans, this means abstaining from meat, fish, and even onions and garlic turning instead to wholesome vegetarian meals that nourish both body and soul. Yet, Shravan cuisine is far from plain. It’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and seasonal bounty.
Here’s a look at some much-loved Goan vegetarian dishes enjoyed during the Shravan month:
Mooga Gathi (Sprouted Moong Curry)
Cooks make this creamy coconut-based curry with sprouted green gram, gently spice it, and temper it with mustard seeds and curry leaves. Served with rice or puris, it’s a Shravan staple in many Goan households.
Khatkhate Bhaji
A mixed vegetable stew made using seasonal veggies like raw banana, pumpkin, yam, and sweet potato, all cooked in a coconut masala with teppal (sichuan pepper). Hearty and aromatic, it’s a festival favorite, especially on days of pooja or fasting.
Ukde Rice and Taka (Curd)
Ukde tandul (red parboiled rice) is a Goan staple, especially during fasting months. People often pair it with homemade curd or buttermilk (taka) and sometimes serve it with a side of batata bhaji or pickle, creating a simple yet satisfying meal.
Patholi
People especially make these during Nag Panchami and Patolleanchem Fest by stuffing turmeric leaves with a sweet mixture of coconut and jaggery, then steaming them to perfection. The aroma of turmeric leaves elevates this monsoon dessert to another level.
Alsande Tonak (Black-Eyed Pea Curry)
This protein-rich curry is made from alsande (black-eyed peas) cooked in a mildly spiced coconut gravy. It’s filling, nutritious, and often paired with rice or chapati during Shravan meals.
Rice Bhakri with Coconut Chutney
Thick rice flour flatbreads roasted on a tawa and eaten with fresh coconut chutney — this combination is a comfort food that’s both gluten-free and Shravan-friendly.
Eating Mindfully During Shravan
During this month, the emphasis is not only on avoiding certain foods but also on mindful eating, seasonal ingredients, and gratitude for nature’s abundance. Families gather, prayers are offered, and meals are shared, not just as a tradition, but as a spiritual practice.
Whether you’re observing Shravan fully or simply exploring Goan vegetarian cuisine, these dishes are a delicious way to connect with the culture, the season, and the deeper rhythms of life.
