The G.O.A. held its first Goan Sweet Making and Tasting event on Sunday, November 15^th, 2009 at Vic Johnson Community Centre in Mississauga. It was encouraging to receive a huge response to this event, this proves that Goans are keen to learn and continue Goan traditions.

In preparation for Christmas, 130 adults and children learned how to make five Goan sweets: Doce de Grao, Bathk (Batica), Bolinhas, Kulkuls and Corambolas. The event was opened to children because they prepare the sweets with their mothers and/or grandmothers. It was nice to see three generations together. Flevi Rodrigues demonstrated Bathk in simple steps. The highlight of the event was Martha Patel presenting Doce de Grao, the microwave method, reducing the effort and time while not compromising the taste. We live in an environment where time is of the essence, any short cuts and tips are appreciated. Participants were also introduced to frozen shredded coconut from India. This eliminates the need to break a fresh coconut, grate and mince it. Samples of Deep Shredded Coconut were distributed, courtesy of Deep Canada. After a step by step demonstration on how to make Kulkuls and Carambolas dough by Joana Nunes, guests were invited to a hands-on session on how to fold and make these sweets.

Did you know there are more than 22 Goan sweets? Each attendee also received a recipe book which included some popular Goan sweets, a couple of Canadian Christmas favourites and cooking tips. Participants shared their Christmas traditions like preparing Kuswar (a tray of assorted sweets, fruit and nuts) and exchanging it with their family, friends and neighbours. Later everybody enjoyed a cup of hot masala tea/coffee with a sampling of all the sweets that were made that afternoon.

An array of Goan utensils was showcased; this brought back memories of Goa. Hema Pereira did an excellent job of the display and labeling the items in Konkani.

The emcee, Michelle Dias kept the crowd entertained and on their toes by asking Goan trivia questions as there were lots of giveaways to be won.

Thank you to all the helpers that made this event a tremendous success. Here is to many more Goan cooking classes!

Marcelina Dias

Cultural Secretary

G.O.A., Toronto

Event photos can be seen on our photo gallery. Check them out!