Goa's Khola chillies add the zing to Goan food

Franky Gracias & Rohan Fernandes

FLAVOURFUL ESSENCE

If you've come to Goa to uncover the secrets of its cuisine, expect your adventure to begin with something as simple as a chilli.

Goa | Spices | Chillies | Khola | Farm fresh | Flavours | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

IN THE HEART OF GOA

And if you walk the bustling and colourful markets of Goa, you will come across stalls selling bright red pepper that packs a powerful punch.

Goa | Spices | Chillies | Khola | Farm fresh | Flavours | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

PEP IT UP

It is a staple ingredient in Goan cuisine, used to add heat and depth to curries, pickles, and seafood dishes.

Goa | Spices | Chillies | Khola | Farm fresh | Flavours | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

FIND YOUR SPICE

You can find them at local markets, grocery stores, and spice shops.

Goa | Spices | Chillies | Khola | Farm fresh | Flavours | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

FIERY RED

Khola chilli is a bright red pepper that packs an extra punch to Goan cuisine.

Goa | Spices | Chillies | Khola | Farm fresh | Flavours | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

UNSEEN EFFORTS

Farmers from Khola and other parts of Goa work hard to cultivate these red and green chillies. 

Goa | Spices | Chillies | Khola | Farm fresh | Flavours | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

FROM THE HILLSLOPES

Khola chilli is a famous variety of chilli grown on the hillslopes of Canacona taluka in South Goa. It is named after the village of Khola where it is exclusively grown.

Goa | Spices | Chillies | Khola | Hillslopes | Flavours | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

A MUST

Goans can never imagine cooking food without their favourite Khola chillies.

Goa | Spices | Chillies | Khola | Farm fresh | Flavours | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

NEXT: 6 Things you probably didn't know about Goan food

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