The Goans of Karachi

The Goan community of Pakistan hail from Goa, a small sea-facing province located on the west coast of India. As many Goans made their way to Karachi, they brought with them their vibrant culture and traditions, as well as their love for food.

The staple foods of Goan cuisine are rice and fish. Other ingredients commonly found in a Goan kitchen include vegetables, coconut, meat and spices. The Portuguese influence is also visible in Goan cuisine through the use of vinegar in some recipes.

Fish is an essential component of the Goan diet. Caldine is a dish of tender yellow fish with coconut-based curry. Surmai, or kingfish, is an expensive fish,  rich in protein and relished by most people since it has very few bones.

Goan clams are another seafood-based dish with a unique blend of spices and a tangy flavour. This dish is reflective of the coastal influence on rich Goan culinary tradition and cuisine.

Step 7: Heat ¼ cup of oil.

Step 8: Saute 1 chopped onion and 5 pieces of kokum on low heat and then add the curry masala mixture.

Step 9: Add 1 kg of clams with shells and ½ a glass of water.

Sanas (steamed rice cakes) is traditional Goan bread made from fermented rice and coconut. They are soft and spongy to taste, and are usually enjoyed at breakfast or prepared for special occasions and festivals. 

Step 9: Fill the bowls with the sanas mixture and steam for 20 minutes.

Let the sanas cool down, and then serve!

The Fernandes family are determined to preserve Goan culture and community in Pakistan through their culinary traditions.