Daman and Diu offer a delectable blend of Indian and Portuguese cuisines influenced by their rich history and cultural heritage. Characterised by the use of spices, coconut, and seafood, the local cuisine is a treat for the taste buds. From traditional Goan dishes to Portuguese delicacies, there's something for everyone to savour.
Popular Cuisines in Daman and Diu
- Goan Cuisine: Goan cuisine is a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese flavours. Given its coastal location, seafood takes centre stage in many Goan dishes.
- Saraswat Cuisine: Saraswat cuisine is the traditional cuisine of the Saraswat Brahmins, a community with a rich culinary heritage in India. Saraswat dishes often feature seafood as well as the signature use of coconut.
- Portuguese Cuisine: Influenced by centuries of Portuguese rule, Daman and Diu offer an authentic taste of Portuguese cuisine. The fusion of Indian ingredients with Portuguese cooking techniques creates truly unique dishes.
Popular Dishes in Daman and Diu
- Chicken Xacuti: Chicken Xacuti is made with chicken, potatoes, onions, coconuts, chillies, and a blend of aromatic spices, it offers an intense hot flavour with a burst of spices. The use of Kashmiri chillies gives the dish its vibrant colour.
- Bebinca: Bebinca is one of the most famous desserts in Daman and Diu. It is a multi-layered cake made with coconut milk, egg yolks, sugar, and almonds. Each layer is baked separately to create a rich and indulgent treat.
- Goan Fish Curry (Xitti Kodi): Goan fish curry features a combination of aromatic spices, grated coconut, and the tanginess of raw mango. It is commonly served with rice.
- Pork Vindaloo: Pork vindaloo is made with marinated pork cooked in a spicy sauce made from vinegar, garlic, ginger, chillies, and other spices.
- Vegetable Caldin: Vegetable Caldin is a mild curry made with mixed vegetables like green peas, carrots, potatoes, and drumsticks cooked in coconut milk along with mild Indian spices.