Goan Godshem
A comforting and traditional Goan dessert made with broken wheat, creamy coconut milk, and unrefined jaggery. This wholesome porridge-like sweet, known as Godshem, is delicately flavored with cardamom and garnished with ghee-fried nuts, making it a staple during Goan festivals and celebrations.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Grains (35 minutes)
- b.Rinse the broken wheat and chana dal together under cool running water until the water runs clear.
- c.In a medium bowl, soak the rinsed grains in enough water to cover them by at least an inch. Let them soak for 30 minutes. This step is crucial for a softer texture.
- d.After 30 minutes, drain all the water from the soaked grains.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the Grains (15 minutes)
- b.Transfer the drained broken wheat and chana dal to a pressure cooker.
- c.Add 2 cups of fresh water.
- d.Secure the lid and pressure cook on medium heat for 3-4 whistles, or until the grains are completely cooked and soft.
- e.Allow the pressure to release naturally. Once safe, open the cooker and lightly mash the cooked mixture with the back of a spoon to create a creamier consistency.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Make the Jaggery Syrup (5 minutes)
- b.While the grains are cooking, combine the grated jaggery and 1/4 cup of water in a small saucepan.
- c.Heat over low-medium heat, stirring continuously until the jaggery has completely dissolved. Do not boil it.
- d.Strain the jaggery syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a bowl to remove any impurities. Set aside.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Simmer (8 minutes)
- b.Place the pressure cooker with the mashed grains back on the stove over low heat.
- c.Pour the strained jaggery syrup into the cooked grains. Mix well to combine.
- d.Simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.
- e.Next, pour in the thin coconut milk. Stir well and continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Finish with Thick Coconut Milk (2 minutes)
- b.Reduce the heat to the absolute lowest setting. Add the thick coconut milk, cardamom powder, and salt.
- c.Stir gently to combine and cook for just 1-2 minutes until it is heated through. It is very important not to let the mixture boil after adding thick coconut milk, as it can curdle.
- d.Turn off the heat.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Prepare the Tempering and Serve (5 minutes)
- b.In a small pan (tadka pan), heat the ghee over medium heat.
- c.Add the halved cashew nuts and fry until they turn a light golden brown.
- d.Add the raisins and fry for a few seconds until they plump up.
- e.Immediately pour this tempering (ghee, cashews, and raisins) over the prepared godshem.
- f.Stir gently to incorporate the tempering. Serve the Goan Godshem warm.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use dark-colored Goan pyramid jaggery (madachem godd) if you can find it.
- 2Always add the thick coconut milk on the lowest heat and avoid boiling to prevent it from splitting.
- 3The godshem will thicken considerably as it cools. Adjust the consistency by adding a splash of warm water or coconut milk before serving leftovers.
- 4Using freshly extracted coconut milk will elevate the taste of the dessert significantly compared to canned versions.
- 5Ensure the jaggery syrup is completely cool or lukewarm before adding it to the hot cooked wheat to prevent curdling, especially if you add it before the coconut milk.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nut-Free
For a nut-free version, simply omit the cashew nuts in the tempering. You can add melon seeds (magaz) or skip the garnish altogether.
VeganVegan
This recipe is almost vegan. To make it fully vegan, substitute the ghee with an equal amount of coconut oil for the tempering.
Different GrainsDifferent Grains
You can make a similar dessert using rice flakes (poha) or sago pearls (sabudana) instead of broken wheat, though cooking times and methods will vary.
Added FlavorAdded Flavor
Add a pinch of nutmeg powder along with the cardamom for a warmer, more complex aroma. A few strands of saffron can also be added for color and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Broken wheat is a whole grain that is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Source of Plant-Based Energy
The combination of complex carbohydrates from wheat and natural sugars from jaggery provides a sustained release of energy, making it a comforting and revitalizing dessert.
Contains Healthy Fats
Coconut milk is a good source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of fat that is more easily digested and used for energy by the body compared to other saturated fats.
Provides Essential Minerals
Unrefined jaggery retains more minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium compared to refined white sugar, contributing to the overall nutritional value of the dish.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Goan Godshem (approximately 1 cup or 225g) contains around 445 calories. This is an estimate and can vary based on the type of coconut milk and jaggery used.