Arti Das
'Neoreo' are considered a favourite of Lord Ganesh. They are a traditional Goan stuffed, deep fried pastry, made of different types of fillings — desiccated coconut with semolina and dry fruits; roasted gram flour; and also a spicy mix. The most popular one is the desiccated coconut variety, which is also a bit on the sweeter side.
Preparing them can be a tedious process as preparation of the pastry, filling, sealing the pastry, and frying have to be perfect.
Neoreos are usually made on a flat wooden surface — known as paat. The pastry dough (made of refined flour, maida) is first rolled, and then stuffed with a filling.
Next, the edges of the pastry are sealed, giving it the signature crescent shape. The edges are then, either, fluted or finished using a traditional Goan pastry cutter.
After that, the sealed neoreos are deep fried.
Once done, they are allowed to cool. Some are served after offering them to Lord Ganesha on the first day of Chaturthi. The remaining are packed away in air-tight containers.
There is a local tradition whereby at least one modak is prepared while making neoreos.