Eat & Stay - April Issue 2024

Eat & Stay Goa

COVER FEATURE

grumps

Grumps is a cozy, approachable bar in Goa started by Agrini & Kartik, blending classic cocktails with bold Asian flavours in a historic setting.

chubby cheek bakes

Sneha turned her baking passion into Chubby Cheek Bakes, creating a wide array of custom cakes.

chocobucks

Dhruti, chocolate lover turned chocolatier, crafts unique flavours at Chocobucks, Goa.

cafe thick to ripped

Palash Pokle's Café Thick to Ripped combines fitness focus with unique nutritious, flavourful meals.

urvashi kavlekar

Urvashi Kavlekar explores and shares Goa's culinary diversity as a food and travel influencer.

Editorial

Dear Readers,

With the arrival of April's gentle sun and the easy cadence of the Goan shores, our latest issue of Eat & Stay Goa sweeps in, bringing stories that echo the heart of our coastal haven. This month, as the sea breeze mingles with the aroma of summer, we're thrilled to showcase the symbiosis of local fare and the evolving tapestry of hospitality that our beloved Goa offers.

Our cover story blossoms with Grumps, a neighbourhood bar in Sangolda, where every sip and bite is a testament to the harmony of meticulously crafted cocktails and bold Asian flavours. Here, the community is not just a patron but an integral thread in the fabric of this vibrant space, weaving the warmth of local ingredients into every creation.

In a celebration of sweet triumph, we follow the journey of Sneha with Chubby Cheek Bakes. Her story, from whisking batter as an amateur baker to becoming a confectionery maestro, is dusted with dedication and glazed with innovation. Sneha’s narrative is a delightful morsel of inspiration for bakers far and wide.

Café Thick to Ripped emerges as a portrait of health and indulgence, where Palash Pokle has stirred his fitness philosophy into a café culture that is as nourishing as it is flavourful. This feature delves into

the essence of a menu that prioritises well-being without sacrificing taste, in a setting that welcomes all.

Chocobucks unfolds as a tale of resilience and creativity, where Dhruti’s love affair with chocolate blooms amidst the challenges of the pandemic. Her journey from chocolate enthusiast to entrepreneurial chocolatier is a rich tapestry of innovation, balancing the sweetness of success with the rigours of academia.

As the Alphonso mangoes grace our markets, we bring you a recipe by Mumbai-based nutritionist Greta Fernandes, that celebrates these golden delights in a sugar-free, dairy-free pudding, adorned with chia seeds and a mesmerising butterfly pea flower garnish.

Join Urvashi Kavlekar as she takes us on a sensory expedition through the bylanes of Goa, unveiling flavours that are woven into the fabric of our culture. Her stories are not just about food but about the people, traditions, and the unspoken language of Goan cuisine.

We also explore the versatility of jackfruit with Chef Alison Melroy Fernandes, who presents a Pulled Jackfruit Burger that harmonises the local bounty with international flavours, truly a celebration of Goa's seasonal produce.

With each page, we invite you to savour the narratives, the wisdom, and the tastes that are uniquely Goan.

Well, that's all I have for you from my desk this month. I hope you enjoy reading this month’s issue of our magazine. Do share it with your friends all across the globe.

Until next month, cheers!

Index

Introduction

Goa, the tiniest state on the western coast of India, boasts golden pristine beaches, palmfringed avenues, flavourful food, delicious Portuguese-influenced sweets, and warm, hospitable people. Also known as the Ibiza of India for its partying. A tropical paradise of flora and fauna, from the very famous 'almi' (mushrooms) endemic to its forests, that grow only on the red mud anthills, to the solar prawns that are fished immediately after the monsoons, Goa is unique. Tourists are also attracted to Goa for its cultural heritage - from the famous old Portuguese churches like Se Cathedral in Old Goa, the 16th Century Safa Masjid in Ponda and Shree Mangesha Temple in Mardol, the legendary Arvalem or Pandava Caves where the Pandavas of the Mahabharat fame lived, to its two unique festivals - Carnival and Shigmo. Goa plays host to many festivals - the International Film Festival of India that promotes cinema, the Serendipity Art Festival, Sunburn Music Festival, The Grape Escapade to name a few. To showcase this varied heritage of culture, art, tradition, food, and people, in 2015 ItsGoa was born. The main aim was to make it the premier portal for all things Goa. We were able to showcase Goa like never before. Soon our blogbased website transcended the virtual space, with the ItsGoa magazine – a sought-after resource for visitors to Goa from countries like Norway, Germany, UK, USA, UAE, etc.

Chief Editor

Jessyl Fernandez

Sales

Donald Fernandez

Content & Social Media

Saviola Dias

Fay De Souza

Renata Fernandes

Graphics & Layout

Shashank Parab

Latisha Govekar

For advertising queries:

+91 7887330620 / 9370502124

ItsGoa Media Group

Nordic Intent HQ - Floor 3, PDA

Colony, Porvorim, Goa 403521

Email: mail@itsgoa.com

Website: itsgoa.com

Introduction and Concept

Grumps is a neighbourhood bar with a spin on classic cocktails and fun Asian food. While cocktail culture is on the rise throughout India, we felt there existed a handful of bars in Goa wherein the food and cocktails were at par with each other; elevating the experience of food and drink. With Grumps, our intention was to create a bar that’s approachable, fun and easygoing, with no compromise on the food and drinks, which we take very seriously.

Location Benefits

We’ve chosen the village of Sangolda as it’s far enough from the frenetic activities of Goa’s coastal belt but close enough for tourists to visit if they so desire. Sangolda is close to Porvorim, Soccoro and Panjim, where a lot of locals reside. It is also very centrally located and a 20-30 minute drive from most areas of North Goa.

Space and Ambiance

It is the backyard of an old Portuguese home called Goro House, which dates back to 1930. We restructured an existing outhouse, firewood storage room and the open space in between to comprise an indoor-outdoor bar that feels modest, familiar, cozy and comfortable. The total seating capacity is around 45-50 covers, including 7-8 bar seats.

Drinks and Service Philosophy

The aim was to create a balanced cocktail menu so as to be a place where everyone can find something to suit their varied tastes—from slightly fruity to fully funky all the way to more spirit-forward drinks: elegant and well-presented cocktails that are delicious without the need for extravagant smoke and mirrors.

Food Program

In India, alcohol and food are synonymous Every drinking session or night out has some sort of chakna or snacks for everyone to share hile they sip on their favourite drinks We see ourselves as individuals craving the older flavours from the eastern orld hich usually tend to have a alance of tangy, spicy, s eet and sour and al ays delicious Some of the popular food dishes are:

Lamb Krapow 'Kebab' - Thai asil, eans, s eet soy our version of a ke a and a take on the popular Thai street food

Avo Wonton 'Tostada' - truffle ponzu cream cheese, her y guacamole refreshing, crunchy yet creamy - nice to start your meal ith)

Team & Leadershi

Kartik Vasudeva - He is a calm & composed team leader ith great inter-personal skills and has the exceptional a ility to listen, understand & ring out the est in the team

Agrini Satyarthi - She is an extremely thorough individual ith a keen eye for detail Her approach to life and ork are the same, compassionate ut practical & pragmatic hich

Smack That

Unique Brand Philosophy

Life can e a hirl ind of responsi ilities and o ligations, often leaving us feeling urdened and disconnected At Grumps, e recognise the importance of em racing the lighter side of life Our name represents a playful ackno ledgment of the grumpy moments e all experience ut encourages us to let go and rediscover the joy ithin.

Cultural Integration & Community Focus

While a vast majority of these ventures are fundamentally designed to serve a transient tourist cro d, the approach ith Grumps is to cater to the old and ne locals of Goa, giving them a neigh ourhood ar that they can call their o n.

Physical Layout and Design Aesthetic

The garden space s meant to be an extens on of the bar tself and s l ned w th numerous fru t trees rang ng from jackfru t to ch ckoo to mango. The space comes al ve w th the plants and a palette of natural and handmade mater als l ke cement ox de, terrazzo, kota stone, later te, teak wood, and cane steal the l mel ght.

Cocktail Innovation and Local Ingredients

The cockta ls use modern techn ques to extract max mum flavour out of the fresh and un que produce ava lable locally, sometimes as local as our own backyard. Some of the popular cockta ls are:

Stand By Me - tequ la, guava, bas l, sumac, co2 refresh ng h ghball

Mo Money Mo Problems - scotch, brunost cheese, pedro x menez sherry, abs nthe sp r t forward, super nteresting and complex)

Community and Staff Dynamics

Grumps s a space where both our guests and team members feel relaxed and welcomed. Our team s what makes Grumps the place t s. Thus t s paramount that our team are comfortable enough to express the r own personal ties w th a sense of ownersh p and a collective goal to create the best poss ble env ronment for each nd v dual guest.

Guest Experience and Atmosphere

Grumps s a space where f you feel l ke getting up and groov ng, you’ll be encouraged to. But you won’t have people cramp ng your space f you’re the k nd who prefers to just s t and have a conversation w th your dear ones.

Chubby Cheek Bakes

Sneha's journey from amateur baker to confectionery maestro with Chubby Cheek Bakes reflects dedication, innovation, and a passion for quality, inspiring aspiring bakers worldwide.

Article by: Team ItsGoa Images by: Chubby Cheek Bakes

In the world of confectionery delights, Sneha, the founder of Chubby Cheek Bakes, has carved a delectable niche with her passion for crafting heavenly cakes. Her journey from a novice baker to an award-winning artisan reflects dedication, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Let's delve into the sweet saga of Sneha and explore the secrets behind the success of Chubby Cheek Bakes.

A Sweet Genesis: From Hobby to Profession

Sneha's tryst with baking began unexpectedly, sparked by a simple indulgence in a homemade cupcake. Despite her initial disinterest in baking, the perfect blend of flavours ignited her creativity, leading her to experiment in her kitchen. Gradually, what started as a hobby bloomed into a full-fledged profession. In June 2020, she received her first order, marking the inception of Chubby Cheek Bakes.

Jungle Themed Cake With Fondant Animals

A Journey of Learning and Growth

Unlike traditional paths, Sneha embarked on her baking journey armed with YouTube tutorials and a fervent desire to excel. However, recognising the importance of formal training, she sought guidance from India's top pastry chefs, earning her certification as a baker. This blend of self-initiated learning and professional expertise became the cornerstone of her success.

Crafting Culinary Masterpieces: Specialisation & Expertise

At Chubby Cheek Bakes, Sneha specialises in a myriad of cakes, from elegant wedding creations to whimsical birthday delights and intricate fondant masterpieces. Her forte lies in thematic designs, with jungle and animal themes reigning as crowd favourites. By offering custom cake designs, Sneha ensures every creation is a unique reflection of her clients' visions, meticulously brought to life through her artistic prowess.

The Essence of Quality: Ingredients and Processes

Quality is non-negotiable at Chubby Cheek Bakes. Sneha meticulously selects each ingredient, prioritising freshness and flavour. From pure chocolates to locally sourced seasonal fruits, every element is carefully chosen to enhance the taste and texture of her creations. Unlike conventional practices, Sneha refrains from freezing her cake sponges, opting for a labour-intensive approach to ensure unparalleled freshness in every bite.

Innovative Techniques and Signature Methods

What sets Chubby Cheek Bakes apart is Sneha's commitment to innovation. From homemade fillings like caramel and butterscotch to eschewing readymade mixes, Sneha infuses her creations with a distinct flavour and flair. Her dedication to consistency is evident in her meticulous approach, continuously refining her techniques to deliver nothing short of perfection.

A Palette of Flavors: Delighting Taste Buds

At the heart of Chubby Cheek Bakes lies a diverse array of flavours, tantalising taste buds and satisfying cravings. From the decadent Rasmalai cake to the indulgent Nutella Ferrero Rocher creation, Sneha's repertoire embodies creativity and culinary finesse. Seasonal specialties like mango and fresh strawberry cakes further showcase her ability to adapt to changing preferences and trends.

Nurturing Relationships

Central to Sneha's success is her emphasis on customer collaboration and satisfaction. By understanding the nuances of each occasion and tailoring her offerings accordingly, she ensures every cake is a personalised masterpiece. Whether it's a memorable 95th birthday celebration or a challenging Krishna Matki cake, Sneha's dedication to exceeding expectations shines through.

Building a Sweet Empire

While Chubby Cheek Bakes initially operated from Sneha's residence, its popularity has grown through word of mouth and social media. With strategic pickup points and personalised delivery services, Sneha ensures her creations reach clients in pristine condition. While community engagement remains a future endeavour, collaborations with renowned brands have bolstered Chubby Cheek Bakes' presence in the confectionery landscape.

Savouring Success: Future Plans and Growth

As Sneha looks towards the future, her aspirations extend beyond the confines of her home kitchen. With plans to establish her own café/bakery, she envisions a space where her culinary creations can be savoured amidst warm ambiance and hospitality. Embracing trends like cake projection and mapping, Sneha remains at the forefront of innovation, poised for continued growth and success.

Inspiring Aspiring Bakers: Nuggets of Wisdom

To aspiring bakers, Sneha offers words of encouragement forged through her own journey. Embrace the initial challenges, she advises, for they pave the path to success. Hard work, perseverance, and a passion for your craft are the ingredients for sweet triumph.

Conclusion: A Sweet Symphony of Success

In Sneha's world, every cake is not just a confectionery delight but a manifestation of passion, creativity, and dedication. Through Chubby Cheek Bakes, she has redefined the art of baking, one exquisite creation at a time. As she continues to inspire and innovate, her journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one's dreams.

thick to ripped

Palash Pokle's journey from fitness enthusiast to Café Thick to Ripped owner epitomizes passion for health and flavor, offering nourishing cuisine, local ingredients, and a welcoming ambiance.

Article by: Team ItsGoa Images by: Cafe Thick to Ripped www.itsgoa.com

In the midst of lockdown boredom, Palash Pokle found himself struck by a surge of inspiration. As a fervent follower of fitness routines, he couldn't ignore the importance of a balanced diet, especially during these times of restricted activity. Combining his love for fitness with a passion for culinary experimentation, Palash conceived the idea of Café Thick to Ripped. This establishment would not only serve as a haven for health-conscious individuals but also as a testament to his dedication to promoting wellness through nourishing cuisine. Let's dive deeper into the genesis of this vibrant café nestled in the heart of Mapusa, Goa.

A Vision for Health and Flavour

Palash's vision for Café Thick to Ripped goes beyond just serving food; it's about creating an experience that tantalises the taste buds while nurturing the body. Drawing inspiration from his own fitness journey, he envisioned a menu teeming with dishes

Chicken Burger

Chicken Multigrain Wrap

bursting with flavour and packed with nutrients. By sourcing ingredients locally, Palash ensures that each dish not only tastes superior but also supports the local farming community, fostering a sense of connection and sustainability. Every meal served at Café Thick to Ripped is a testament to Palash's unwavering commitment to health and flavour, inviting patrons to embark on a culinary journey like no other.

Crafting Culinary Delights

At Café Thick to Ripped, every dish tells a story of Palash's dedication to wholesome eating and culinary innovation. From vibrant salads brimming with organic greens to hearty grain bowls adorned with lean proteins, each creation is a symphony of colours and flavours. Whether it's the refreshing zing of freshly squeezed juices or the indulgent sweetness of guilt-free desserts, every bite is carefully crafted to nourish the body and delight the senses. Palash's passion for health and flavour shines through in every dish, inviting patrons to savour the taste of well-being with every mouthful. www.itsgoa.com

The Essence of "Thick to Ripped"

The name "Thick to Ripped" serves as a beacon guiding patrons on a transformative journey towards a healthier, fitter lifestyle. It encapsulates Palash's belief in the power of nutrition and exercise to sculpt the body into its best form. Through carefully curated post-workout meals and nourishing treats, Café Thick to Ripped aims to empower individuals to take charge of their health and fitness goals. It's more than just a café; it's a sanctuary where dreams of a leaner, more sculpted physique can become a reality, one delicious bite at a time.

Sourcing Ingredients Locally

Palashs commitment to quality extends beyond the kitchen to the very roots of his ingredients. By sourcing produce locally from the bustling Mapusa market, he not only ensures the freshness and flavour of his dishes but also supports the livelihoods of local farmers. Palash's personal connection with vendors underscores his dedication to fostering a sense of community and sustainability. Each ingredient tells a story of collaboration and care, enriching both the café and the community it serves.

Creating an Inviting Ambience

Step into Café Thick to Ripped, and you'll immediately be enveloped in an atmosphere of warmth and sophistication. Drawing on his experience as an event manager, Palash has curated an ambience that captivates and engages guests from the moment they walk through the door. Every detail, from the chic décor to the soothing background music, has been meticulously selected to enhance the overall dining experience. It's more than just a meal; it's an escape into a world where relaxation and indulgence go hand in hand.

A Focus on Customer Satisfaction

Palash understands that the key to a successful café isn't just about the food; it's about the experience. From the friendly welcome at the door to the last bite of dessert, every moment at Café Thick to Ripped is designed to exceed expectations. Palash and his team go above and

beyond to create a welcoming and comfortable environment where patrons can unwind and enjoy delicious food without guilt. It's not just about leaving satisfied; it's about leaving inspired to continue on the path to health and wellness.

Conclusion

In the bustling culinary landscape of Goa, Café Thick to Ripped stands as a shining beacon of health, flavour, and community. Palash Pokle's journey from fitness enthusiast to café owner is a testament to the transformative power of passion and dedication. Through his unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, Palash has created a sanctuary where patrons can nourish their bodies and delight their taste buds, one nutritious bite at a time. Join him on this remarkable journey, and discover the true meaning of culinary bliss at Café Thick to Ripped.

HOME BUSINESS

Chocobucks

Dhruti's journey from chocolate lover to Chocobucks owner showcases resilience, creativity, and dedication, navigating pandemic challenges, innovating chocolate artistry, and balancing academia with entrepreneurship, with a vision for future expansion.

Article by: Team ItsGoa Images by: Dhruti Bandodkar

Unveiling the Sweet Symphony of Chocobucks

In a world where passion fuels ambition, Dhruti’s story stands as a testament to the transformative power of following one's heart. Meet Dhruti, the visionary behind Chocobucks, Goa's beloved haven for customised chocolates. Her journey from a chocolate aficionado to a thriving chocolatier encapsulates the essence of resilience, creativity, and unwavering dedication.

A Taste of Beginnings: From Passion to Purpose

Dhruti's tryst with chocolate began at a tender age, nurtured by familial inspiration and an insatiable love for the cocoa delight. With no formal training, she embarked on a journey of experimentation, crafting delectable treats that captured hearts effortlessly. As she reminisces, "I never imagined my chocolate indulgence would metamorphose into a business venture."

Birthday Favours

Chocolate Roses for Wedding Favours

Navigating Through Uncertainties: The Pandemic Pivot

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic cast a shadow of uncertainty over Dhruti's budding enterprise. Yet, amidst the challenges, she found opportunity. Leveraging social media platforms, she unveiled Chocobucks' Raksha Bandhan collection, igniting a spark that fuelled her ascent. Dhruti’s resilience during adversity underscores her indomitable spirit.

Innovative Flair: Redefining Chocolate Artistry

Dhruti's creative ingenuity knows no bounds. Armed with unique chocolate moulds sourced from Mumbai, she introduced Goa to a tapestry of designs previously unseen. Her penchant for experimentation birthed a diverse array of flavours, from traditional delights like Rasmalai and Gulab Jamun to innovative concoctions like Blackcurrant and Rajbhog. With each creation, Dhruti  redefines the boundaries of chocolate artistry.

Assorted Chocolates

Savouring Success: A Recipe for Growth

The resounding acclaim garnered by Chocobucks bears testimony to Dhruti's unwavering commitment to excellence. Beyond taste, it's the meticulous attention to presentation that sets her creations apart. From weddings to festivals, Chocobucks offers bespoke delights tailored to every occasion, earning Dhruti a legion of loyal patrons.

Balancing Act: Juggling Academia and Artistry

As a student pursuing her master's degree, Dhruti faces the challenge of balancing academic pursuits with her entrepreneurial endeavours. Yet, she embraces the duality with grace, dedicating her mornings to studies and evenings to crafting chocolates. Her ability to seamlessly harmonise academia and artistry epitomises her tenacity and adaptability.

Dreams in the Making: A Vision for Tomorrow

Dhruti's aspirations extend beyond the confines of her kitchen. With ambitions to establish a brick-andmortar presence in Margao, she sets her sights on elevating Chocobucks to new heights. Through meticulous planning and unwavering determination, she envisions a future where Chocobucks reigns supreme as Goa's premier customised chocolate

Chocolate Cards For Weddings/Engagements

Words of Wisdom: Navigating the Path to Success

Reflecting on her journey, Dhruti imparts invaluable advice to aspiring chocolatiers. Embrace challenges as opportunities, she urges, and never falter in the pursuit of excellence. In a competitive landscape, innovation is key, but resilience is paramount. Above all, let passion be your guiding light, for it is the fuel that propels dreams into reality.

Embracing the Sweet Symphony: A Family Affair

For Dhruti, the journey isn't just about business—it's a shared passion that unites her family in sweet indulgence. Together, they revel in the joy of creating and savoring each delectable creation, a testament to the enduring bond forged by chocolate.

Conclusion: A Tale of Triumph and Temptation

In the heart of Goa, amidst the sun-kissed shores and balmy breezes, Dhruti's story unfolds—a tale of triumph against adversity, of passion transformed into purpose. Through her unwavering dedication and boundless creativity, she has etched her mark on the culinary landscape, inspiring countless dreamers to pursue their passions with fervor and flair. www.itsgoa.com

Mango Chia Seed & Butterfly pea flower pudding

This recipe celebrates India's love for Alphonso mangoes with a sugar-free, dairy-free pudding infused with chia seeds, coconut milk, and butterfly pea flower garnish by Mumbai-based certified nutritionist Greta Fernandes.

Mango Chia Seed & Butterfly Pea Flower Pudding   (Approx 130 calories per serving)

The mango season in India barely lasts for 3 to 4 months. The King of fruits is so loved by us Indians that this season is like a celebration!!!

It is a common to see people carrying mango boxes or mangoes by the dozen for the families to devour.

And more often than not, all this love for mangoes is showered on the world-famous Alphonso variety. This is especially true for those who belong to the coastal belt of Maharashtra and Goa.

For me the season of mangoes stir up nostalgia.   Although one cannot beat the joy of eating freshly cut ripe mangoes, it is also true that the amazing recipes made from them are equally relished.

The list of recipes of what the Indian households can prepare with this loved fruit is pretty long.

Since DeliciouslyURS always has been bringing you healthier dessert recipes, this time too we beautifully blend the mangoes to prepare a creamy and luscious pudding.

These will disappear in minutes. But not a problem because they are sugar-free and dairy-free, with the goodness of chia seeds and nuts.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe Alphonso Mangoes

• 50g cup Chia Seeds soaked

• 500ml Fresh Coconut Milk (first extract)

• 4 tbsps Maple Syrup or other sweetener of your choice

• Few Butterfly Pea Flowers

• Cashew nuts chopped

• Dried Cranberries

Method:

• Cut & peel the mangoes. Scoop out the luscious mango flesh and  add it to the blender or food processor to make a mango purée and  refrigerate it.

• Stir the maple syrup into the coconut milk.

• Add the chia seeds into the coconut milk & maple syrup mixture.

• Let it soak for an hour or so.

• Now assemble the pudding in beautiful shot glasses.

• Add the chia seed and coconut milk mixture at the bottom, then add  a layer of chopped cashew nuts.

• To this add a generous layer of the cooled mango puree.

• Finally, top it all up with some more cashew nuts, dried cranberries  and last but not the least a garnish of butterfly blue pea flower for  the elegance.

• Chill and serve.

For more unique and healthy recipes visit my blog:  https://deliciouslyurs.com

Exploring Goa's Culinary Delights: A Journey with Urvashi Kavlekar

Embark on a culinary adventure through the vibrant streets and hidden gems of Goa with Urvashi Kavlekar, a passionate food and travel influencer deeply rooted in Goan culture. From childhood memories of savouring authentic Goan dishes lovingly prepared by her mother to her own explorations of Goa's diverse culinary scene, Urvashi's journey is a celebration of flavours, culture, and community.

A Taste of Home: Urvashi's Culinary Heritage

Born and raised in Ponda, Goa, Urvashi Kavlekar's culinary journey began at home, under the guidance of her incredible mother. Growing up surrounded by the aromas of Goan spices and the sizzle of frying fish, Urvashi developed a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of flavours that define Goan cuisine. Inspired by her mother's passion for cooking, Urvashi's family opened Hotel Shantadurga in Ponda, specialising in mouthwatering Goan breakfast classics and flavorful lunch dishes that reflect the heart and soul of Goan cooking.

Urvashi At Holiday Inn Candolim For A Review At The Bengali Food Festival - Taste of Bengal, Trying Out The Mahabhoj Thali

Urvashi Doing A Review At Kismoor, Sangolda

Embracing Passion: From Pharmaceuticals to Food and Travel

After nearly a decade in India's top pharmaceutical company, Urvashi Kavlekar decided to follow her heart and pursue her passion for food and travel. Armed with a love for culinary exploration and a desire to share her experiences with others, she embarked on a journey as a food and travel influencer, turning her passion into her profession. From exploring hidden eateries to documenting her adventures through captivating content, Urvashi's journey is a testament to the power of following one's dreams.

A Melting Pot of Flavors: Goa's Culinary Scene

Goa's culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry woven from a myriad of influences, reflecting the state's multicultural heritage. From the fiery flavours of Goan vindaloo to the tangy goodness of fish curry rice, Goan cuisine is a delightful fusion of Indian, Portuguese, and Konkani flavours. Urvashi celebrates this rich culinary heritage through her content, showcasing the diversity and depth of Goan cuisine, from traditional home-cooked meals to innovative fusion dishes.

www.itsgoa.com

Urvashi

Uncovering Hidden Gems: Urvashi's Favourite Culinary Discoveries

One of Urvashi's most recent culinary discoveries is Mhambrey Bar and Restaurant in Aldona, a hidden gem nestled amidst Goa's lush countryside. Run by a charming Goan couple, Mhambrey Bar and Restaurant serves up delicious fish curry rice with a side of stunning views, offering diners a truly unforgettable experience. From crispy fried fish to soul-comforting thalis, every bite at Mhambrey Bar and Restaurant is a testament to Goa's culinary prowess.

Balancing Travel and Taste: Urvashi's Approach to Content Creation

For Urvashi, content creation is about more than just capturing beautiful images—it's about telling a story, sharing experiences, and inspiring others to explore the world around them. By striking a balance between showcasing Goa's scenic beauty and its culinary delights, Urvashi provides her audience with a holistic view of the wonders of Goa. Whether it's exploring historic landmarks or sampling street food at vibrant markets, Urvashi's content captures the essence of Goa's unique charm.

in the vibrant community that defines Goa, Urvashi is

Urvashi offers invaluable tips for exploring off the beaten path. From connecting with locals to discovering hidden gems in the wilderness, Goa has much to offer beyond its beaches and nightlife. By venturing off the tourist trail, travellers can uncover hidden waterfalls, serene kayaking spots, and local eateries serving up authentic Goan cuisine. Urvashi's insider tips provide travellers with the tools they need to create unforgettable memories in Goa.

Overcoming Challenges: Urvashi's Journey as a Content Creator

As a food and travel influencer in Goa, Urvashi has faced her fair share of challenges, from navigating the saturated content space to managing the logistics of travel and content creation. However, through perseverance, creativity, and a commitment to authenticity, Urvashi has overcome these challenges and continued to thrive in her field. By staying true to her passion and embracing the journey, Urvashi serves as an inspiration to aspiring content creators everywhere.

Memorable Moments: Urvashi's Journey Through Goa's Culinary Landscape

From sampling homemade fish thalis to connecting with locals over glasses of Urrak, Urvashi's journey through Goa's culinary landscape has been filled with memorable moments. Whether it's discovering hidden eateries or sharing stories with passionate chefs and food vendors, Urvashi's experiences serve as a testament to the beauty and richness of Goan cuisine. Through her content, she invites her audience to join her on this delicious journey through the heart and soul of Goa.

Urvashi At Novotel Dona Sylvia Resort for Amche Goem - A Collaboration With Women of Fatorda

Connecting with Audience: Urvashi's Authentic Approach

At the heart of Urvashi's content is a genuine desire to connect with her audience, sharing stories, experiences, and insights that resonate with them. By prioritising authenticity and engagement, Urvashi creates content that sparks conversations, inspires wanderlust, and fosters meaningful connections with her audience. From sharing honest feedback on local eateries to fulfilling audience requests for content, Urvashi's approach is driven by a commitment to providing value and enriching the lives of her followers.

Monetization and Beyond: Urvashi's Journey to Success

For Urvashi, success as a content creator is about more than just monetization—it's about passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. While generating income as a food and travel influencer can be challenging, Urvashi's journey serves as a testament to the power of dedication and hard work. By staying true to her passion and connecting with her audience in meaningful ways, Urvashi has built a thriving career doing what she loves most— exploring the world, one bite at a time.

www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgoa

Summertime in Goa brings the abundance of jackfruit, skillfully incorporated by Chef Alison Melroy Fernandes into a Pulled Jackfruit Burger, celebrating local produce with global gastronomic influences. Pulled

Pulled Jackfruit Burger

With summer arriving in Goa, the state’s markets are brimming with seasonal delights, and one of them is the jackfruit, which is found in abundance. Chef Alison Melroy Fernandes, chef faculty at the Kamaxi College of Culinary Arts (KCCA), Verna, skill fully incorporates this indigenous-to-India fruit into his culinary creations.

His dish highlights the vibrant flavours and versatility of the jackfruit, which is often utilised as a meat substitute in vegan dishes, offering a delightful fusion of local produce with global gastronomic influences. This innovative approach celebrates Goa's rich bounty in a diverse culinary context.

Serves- 2

Preparation time- 30 min

Ingredients:

Raw Jackfruit flesh - 250gms Red Onions - 80gms

Cajun Spice - 10gms

Paprika Powder - 10gms Cumin Powder - 10gms BBQ Sauce - 50gms

Vegan Cheddar Cheese - 1 slice Salt and Pepper - as per taste

Method:

Begin by sautéing onions in a little cooking oil until they turn translucent. Add the raw jackfruit flesh and continue cooking until it starts to develop a golden colour and crisp texture.

Next, season the jackfruit with Cajun spice, paprika powder and cumin powder. Add a little water as needed, cover and let it simmer until the jackfruit softens to a texture resembling a burger patty.

Pulled Jackfruit Burger

To serve, scoop the desired portion of the seasoned jackfruit onto a burger bun and

and garnish as desired. This flavourful dish makes for a delightful and innovative vegan twist on a classic burger.

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