5 min
23/07/2024
Quick Summary
Goa's crown jewel, bebinca, is a layered dessert masterpiece, whispering tales of its rich Indo-Portuguese past with every bite. Celebrated for its unique flavours and textures, bebinca is a beloved staple in Goan cuisine, often gracing tables during celebrations and festivals. Its meticulous preparation involves layering and baking, resulting in a cake that is both dense and delightfully caramelised. But that's not all! Beyond its irresistible taste, bebinca offers health benefits thanks to its natural ingredients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. It is more than just a dessert; it is a cultural experience that encapsulates the essence of Goan cuisine.
Deep Dive
Craving a dessert that's as historic as it is delicious? Bebinca should be at the top of your list! We bring you the captivating story behind bebinca, its health perks, and why it holds a cherished place in Goan cuisine. Stay with us to discover what makes bebinca an irresistible treat that leaves everyone craving more. Let's dive in!
The Delicious Legacy of Bebinca
Bebinca's claim to fame is divine. This layered Goan dessert is also known as "bibik" and "bebinka." Its origin dates back to the 17th century, during the Portuguese colonial era. Legend has it that bebinca was born from frugality and is an amazing example of zero-waste cooking. Nuns in 17th-century Goa, after starching their clothes with egg whites, were left with a surplus of yolks. As the story goes, Sister Bebiana, a nun at the Convento da Santa Monica in Velha Goa, used these yolks to create a seven-layered pudding, perhaps a tribute to Lisbon's seven hills. The priests loved it but suggested more layers for a grander dessert. Bebinca, named after the resourceful nun, became a beloved Goan tradition from then on — a rich cake with layers that can vary from 7 to 16. Over the years, this dessert has won the hearts of the Goan people. From weddings to religious festivals, no party is complete without a slice of bebinca's magic.
