When in Goa, people mostly tend to visit a beach or two, head over to one of the age old sights in and around the state, have some Goan wine, food and get back home.
What people don’t do is pay a visit to the spice plantations of Goa, which truly are a sight to behold. A lesser known attraction in Goa, the colours, aromas and the presence of a multitude of spices just wafting in the air, are what make the plantation tour an experience you surely need to have.
Though it is certainly something that can’t be put into words, we’ll try to give you a sniff here anyway!
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Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme
At these plantations you get to see how the spice gets from the plant to your plate and becomes the crux of your favourite dish. After all, it is the spices in a dish that make it what it is. Goan cuisine is especially rooted in spices and it is only right that you get to see how these spices are made, how they’re grown and the likes of that.
In fact, if you’re really eager to try them out, you can also get a taste of the spice once your tour is over. From cumin, turmeric, garlic, special chillies and even coriander, which are the foundations of any Goan dish, to some of the more exotic spices such as tamarind and asafoetida, you can find it all here. Each seasoning has a unique property that adds to the dish you’re having.
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Once you know how these spices come to life and how they enhance the flavour of any dish, you can develop a deeper appreciation for not just the the spices, but the dishes themselves.
This is what makes this not just a great tourist trip, but also a rather educational experience. If you listen closely enough, the guides will also give you some insights as to how you can grow your own spices!
Knock Knock
If you’re looking for a place to visit in Goa that’s not just touristy but also educational as well as insightful, plan a trip here and take in the roots of Goan cuisine.
To know more about the Spice Plantations, click here.
