Ever heard of alcohol in your bread? When in Goa, anything can happen! Calling out to all the enthusiastic bakers, this place in Goa is a gem for you! Have you ever witnessed the baking of a loaf of bread before you take a bite of it by slathering butter? If not, this bakery in Majorda, Goa is where you will experience the life cycle of a beautiful Goan Poi at this iconic bakery. Toddy, an alcoholic drink, is also used to prepare the softest and fluffiest breads ever in Goa! Now, let’s roll! *we just baked a pun here*
An Iconic Bakery In Goa’s Majorda Bakes Bread In Traditional Way With Toddy & Whole Wheat
The tradition and practise of baking bread, one that was brought to Goa from Portugal in the 1500s, is believed to have spread from this one village called Majorda in south Goa. In fact, the Goan term for baker is Poder, which originates from the Portuguese word padeiro. #COTRGoa pic.twitter.com/S1h2DbZXXz
— Chef TZac (@ChefTZac) October 23, 2021
The Godinho Bakery is a popular bakery owned by Joao Menino Godinho, an ex-government serviceman. It is located just near the Majorda Junction. This popular bakery was started more than 70 years ago by Mr. Joao’s father. The current location from where the pleasant smell of freshly baked bread arises from its huge wood-fired oven used to be his parent’s home.
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The tradition of authentic baking is still alive in this portion of Goa and this bakery in Goa is standing tall with its authentic and traditional ways of preparing breads like Goan poi, pao, bagel and more. When we talk about traditional methods of baking, Joao still utilises Toddy to ferment the bread dough. At this point, Toddy is way more expensive than yeast yet an age-old tradition binds a person.
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One of the great things here is that they make poi with wheat rather than refined wheat flour. Therefore, poi is a healthy option for health-conscious folks. But if you wish to buy refined wheat flour poi or bread, they do bake this variation as well.
Its Wood-Fired Oven Was Almost Not Ready
The wood-fired oven used to bake bread in traditional bakeries in Goa is a structural masterpiece in itself, and has been in existence for centuries. It operates in a very peculiar way, unlike the ovens that we’re typically used to, and is a real treat to learn about. #COTRGoa pic.twitter.com/7rA5KVld5f
— Chef TZac (@ChefTZac) October 23, 2021
Godinho Bakery’s big wood-fired oven almost wasn’t constructed from its top! The person responsible for building it was crippled with paralysis when he was almost done with its construction. The dome portion was left, so Mr. Joao requested his mason to build the oven top. After three failed attempts, the oven dome was done and the popular bakery in Goa commenced producing yummy poi and pao.
Mr Joao is delighted to carry forward this Goan tradition with Godinho Bakery and now you should head over to learn the art of baking in this iconic bakery of Goa and support this age-old tradition!
Where: Near Majorda Junction, Goa
Timings: 4 PM – 8 PM, closed on Sundays
Cover Image Courtesy: X/ChefTZac
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