TAG: GS 3: ECONOMY
THE CONTEXT: The classic Goan sweet, Dodol, has recently been proposed for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Goa government.
EXPLANATION:
- This move, facilitated by the All Goa Baker’s and Confectioners Association and supported by the Department of Science, Technology, and Waste Management of the Government of Goa, aims to recognize and preserve the unique cultural and culinary heritage associated with Dodol.
What is Dodol?
- Dodol is a traditional Goan sweet, often likened to its more famous cousin, Bebinca.
- It is characterized by its dark brown color and firm, jelly-like texture.
- Dodol is made from a combination of rice flour, coconut milk, and black palm jaggery.
- The preparation involves cooking this mixture in a copper vessel over a slow fire while continuously stirring it with a wooden ladle to prevent burning.
- Once the mixture is ready, it is poured into a ghee-greased vessel, flattened with banana leaves, allowed to cool, and then cut into thin slices.
- Traditionally, Dodol was prepared by Christian households during Christmas for ‘consoada,’ a practice of sending confectioneries to relatives and neighbors.
- Over time, Dodol has become an integral part of Goa’s multicultural culinary history, enjoyed not only during festive seasons but also as a regular treat.
Historical Significance and Origins
- The origins of Dodol are disputed and varied.
- Some scholars trace its roots to the Medang Kingdom of Indonesia between the 8th and 11th centuries, where a traditional version of the sweet was served at royal banquets.
- Another variation of Dodol is believed to have originated during the early 20th century under Dutch colonial rule in Indonesia.
- In Goa, Dodol’s introduction is often attributed to the Portuguese, who ruled the coastal state from the 16th century.
- The sweet is believed to have been integrated into Goan culture during the 17th century, reflecting a blend of local and Portuguese culinary traditions.
- According to the GI tag application filed by the Goa government, there is a belief among Goan households that a Catholic woman must take Dodol and bananas as “voje” (a gift) when returning to her husband’s house after the birth of her first child, signifying its cultural importance.
- The application also notes that Goan Dodol has a distinctive sweet flavor derived from Goan pyramid jaggery and a creamy texture from fresh coconut milk.
- The rice flour acts as a binder, creating a unique version of this sweet that aligns with various cultures and shares a common Goan-Portuguese history.
Preparation and Cultural Practices
- Traditionally, Dodol is prepared in a large cauldron named ‘kail,’ which is often part of a woman’s dowry.
- There is a customary belief that if a ‘kail’ is borrowed, it must be returned with Dodol as a form of gratitude, highlighting the community-centric nature of this culinary tradition.
Benefits of a GI Tag
- A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a form of intellectual property that recognizes products originating from a specific geographical region, known for their unique characteristics and qualities.
- The GI tag serves several purposes:
- Authenticity and Quality Assurance: It ensures that consumers receive authentic products made using traditional methods and practices, maintaining high standards of quality.
- Protection Against Impersonation: The GI tag protects the creators from unauthorized use or imitation of the product, safeguarding the cultural heritage and identity associated with it.
- Market Recognition and Popularization: It acts as a trademark in the international market, helping to popularize the product and enhance its reputation.
- Economic Benefits: The GI tag can facilitate exports, potentially boosting the local economy and providing financial benefits to traditional bakers and confectioners.
- Obtaining a GI tag for Dodol will help standardize traditional methods and ensure the product’s authenticity.
- Following the GI tag awarded to Bebinca, the bakers and traders registered to get the GI stamp on the packaging to sell the pudding, setting a precedent for Dodol.
- The GI tag would help safeguard Dodol’s cultural identity, promote its popularity, and facilitate exports, thereby preserving and enhancing Goa’s rich culinary heritage.
SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-culture/dodol-goa-gi-tag-history-9410228/
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