Christmas in Goa is a time of joy, celebration, and, most importantly, delicious sweets. Here are some of the most popular Goan Christmas sweets that make the festive season extra special:
1. Dodol
Dodol is a traditional Goan sweet made from coconut milk, jaggery, and rice flour. It has a chewy, pudding-like texture that is both unique and delightful. Making dodol is quite a process; it requires constant stirring to avoid burning. While you can find dodol in local markets, homemade dodol is often considered the best.
2. Bebinca
Bebinca is often called the queen of Goan Christmas sweets. This layered cake is made by baking each layer separately. Traditionally, bebinca has seven layers, but there are versions with more layers that are highly sought after. It’s a challenging sweet to make, as each layer must be carefully baked to avoid burning the layers below. Bebinca is so popular that it is not only enjoyed by locals but also exported to other countries, showing just how much people love this sweet.
3. Neureos (or Nevris)
Neureos, also known as nevris, are a beloved Christmas treat in Goa. These are fried dumplings filled with a mixture of coconut, cashew nuts, raisins, and sometimes besan flour (a type of chickpea flour). Each family might have its own recipe, but the coconut version is the most common during Christmas. Neureos are a staple at festive gatherings, and no Christmas plate is complete without them.
4. Kulkuls
Kulkuls are another classic Goan Christmas sweet. They are small, sweet curls made from dough that is shaped and then deep-fried. The process of making kulkuls involves kneading sweetened dough and shaping it into tiny curls, which can be time-consuming. Making kulkuls is often a family activity filled with laughter and fun. Once fried, these crispy treats are enjoyed hot and are always a hit during the holiday season.
5. Bolinhas
Bolinhas are small, sweet treats made from semolina and sugar. Although they are sometimes called cookies, their texture is different from regular cookies. Bolinhas are slightly crisp on the outside and soft inside. They are a favourite throughout the year but are especially loved during Christmas. Many people remember the taste of freshly baked bolinhas as a comforting and nostalgic treat.
6. Batica
Batica is another popular Goan Christmas sweet made from semolina and coconut. It has a soft, cake-like texture and is usually sliced and served in pieces. While it shares some similarities with bolinhas, batica is softer and more cake-like. It is a well-loved sweet that brings back fond memories for many.
7. Marzipan
Marzipan is a sweet treat made from ground cashews or almonds, mixed with sugar. The mixture is divided into colourful batches and moulded into various shapes, which are then chilled to set. Marzipan adds a splash of colour to the Christmas sweets tray and is enjoyed by both children and adults. It’s often hard to find high-quality marzipan in stores, so many people prefer to make it at home, where it can be made to perfection.
Conclusion
Goan Christmas sweets are a delightful part of the festive celebrations. Each sweet, from the rich bebinca to the colourful marzipan, brings its own special flavour and joy to the holiday season. Whether you’re enjoying these treats at home or sharing them with friends and family, they add a sweet touch to the Christmas festivities.
