Gokarna, a quaint temple town situated in Karnataka, is not just a pilgrimage site but also a food lover’s paradise. The town has a rich culinary heritage that has been passed down through generations. In this blog, we’ll take a look at some of the must-try local delicacies in Gokarna.
Neer Dosa
Image Credits: Neer Dosa
Neer Dosa is a light and fluffy crepe made from rice batter. It’s a popular breakfast item in Gokarna and is usually served with coconut chutney and sambar. The name “Neer” means water, and the dosa gets its name from the fact that the batter is made by grinding soaked rice with water. The dosa is gluten-free, vegan, and perfect for those looking for a healthy breakfast option.
Kotte Kadubu
Kotte Kadubu is a steamed rice dumpling that is usually served with coconut chutney and vegetable sambar. The dish is made by wrapping the rice batter in a banana leaf and steaming it. The banana leaf imparts a unique flavour to the dish, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
Karimeen Pollichathu
Karimeen Pollichathu is a spicy and tangy fish dish that is wrapped in banana leaves and grilled. The fish used in the dish is a freshwater fish called Pearl Spot, which is found in abundance in the backwaters of Kerala and Karnataka. The dish is typically served with rice and is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Goli Baje
Goli Baje, also known as Mangalore Bajji, is a popular tea-time snack in Gokarna. The dish is made by deep-frying a batter made from maida (all-purpose flour), yoghurt, and spices. The result is a crispy, golden-brown ball that is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Goli Baje is usually served with coconut chutney.
Kori Gassi
Kori Gassi is a spicy and flavorful chicken curry that is a staple in Gokarna. The dish is made by cooking chicken in a coconut-based gravy that is flavoured with a blend of aromatic spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. Kori Gassi is usually served with rice or Neer Dosa.
Banana Halwa
Banana Halwa is a sweet and decadent dessert that is made from ripe bananas, ghee, sugar, and nuts. The dish is cooked on a low flame for a long time, which gives it a rich, caramel-like flavour. The halwa is usually garnished with chopped nuts and is a perfect end to a delicious meal.
Kundapur Chicken
Kundapur Chicken is a spicy and tangy chicken dish that originated in the coastal town of Kundapur in Karnataka. The dish is made by marinating the chicken in a blend of spices and then cooking it in a tomato-based gravy that is flavoured with tamarind, coconut, and curry leaves. Kundapur Chicken is usually served with rice or Neer Dosa.
Kadubu
Kadubu is a steamed rice cake that is typically eaten for breakfast in Gokarna. The cake is made by steaming a batter made from rice flour, coconut, and jaggery in a cylindrical container. Kadubu is usually served with spicy coconut chutney or sambar.
Mangalorean Fish Curry
Mangalorean Fish Curry is a spicy and tangy fish curry that is made using a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and mustard seeds. The curry is cooked in a coconut-based gravy that is flavoured with tamarind and curry leaves. The dish is usually served with rice or Neer Dosa.
In conclusion, Gokarna offers a wide variety of local delicacies that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a non-vegetarian, a spicy food lover or someone who prefers mild flavours, Gokarna has something for everyone. So, the next time you’re in Gokarna, make sure to stay in Red Earth, a Resort in Gokarna and try out these mouth-watering dishes and indulge in the town’s culinary delights.
