Panjim, May 4, 2024: Food enthusiasts in Goa were treated to a multi-sensory extravaganza at the 5th edition of the Goenchem Fest, held today at The Park in Calangute. Curated by experts from the Yots Goa Culinary Club, the festival celebrated the rich culinary heritage of the state, and this year’s edition brought forth even more vibrant experiences blending food, fashion, and culture.
Exploring Local Cuisine and Traditions
The Goenchem Fest has become an annual tradition, and this year, the Goa Culinary Club focused on celebrating the diversity of local cuisine and culture, with a nod to the nostalgia of yesteryear. Attendees were treated to a feast of Goan flavors, including classic dishes and modern interpretations. Chef Tushar Malkani took center stage, demonstrating how to prepare the iconic Goan Chicken Cafreal and a vegetarian twist on the traditional Xacuti with Cottage Cheese.
The event also celebrated the bounty of the summer months and the local purumentache tradition, with Chef Amol Desai from Canacona showcasing the fruits and spices of the season. He shared stories and recipes from his childhood, transporting attendees back to simpler times. Other culinary demonstrations featured chefs delving into community kitchens, including Chef Peter’s kitchens, Marlene’s tasty treats, The Park, and Foodybreaks, to name a few.
Fashion Meets Culinary Arts
In addition to the culinary delights, the festival featured a captivating saree fashion show with club members showcasing traditional attire in unique ways. Designer Ritu Puri brought a new twist to saree draping, reminding everyone of the elegance of garments worn by grandmothers in years past.
Interactive Experiences and Entertainment
The festival offered a range of interactive experiences. Chef Sunit Sharma, who emceed the event, added excitement with food and beverage games, while sid Suhas ensured everything ran smoothly. The event also had a bustling flea market to explore, foot-tapping Konkani music, and even stalls demonstrating how local fruit wines like Ninoshka are made. To round out the evening, guests enjoyed tastings of various spirits, such as Urak and Niro, and a focus on the importance of tea, a nod to traditions passed down through generations.
The Community Behind the Fest
The event was curated by Odette Mascarenhas with committee members Anisha Hassan, Joe Mascarenhas, Saurabh Khanna, Vaishali, and Chef Sunit Sharma. General Manager Saurabh Khanna, hosting the event for the third time, emphasized the importance of preserving heritage: “The ethos of our heritage will remain forever.”
A Night to Remember
Sponsors Ani Ek and MOG Asun, alongside Curry Culture, lent a spirited focus to the evening, with tasting portions of various dishes, including veg starters, a range of main courses, and mung dal halwa for dessert. It was a celebration of Goan culture, flavors, fashion, and the joy of coming together for a memorable experience.
With the lively blend of food, fashion, and tradition, the 5th Goenchem Fest proved to be an unforgettable event, leaving attendees eagerly anticipating next year’s edition. Viva Goenchem Fest 5.0!
