Dodol

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Context

• Last week, the Goa government formally applied for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the Goan sweet Dodol.
• The All-Goa Baker’s and Confectioners Association filed the application with the Department of Science, Technology, and Waste Management of the Government of Goa acting as a facilitator.

What is Dodol?

Description

• Appearance and Ingredients: Dodol is a classic Goan sweet, dark brownish in color, made using rice flour, coconut milk, and black palm jaggery. It has a firm, jelly-like texture.
• Preparation:
• Cooking: A mixture of rice flour, coconut milk, and black palm jaggery is cooked in a copper vessel on a slow fire and continuously stirred with a wooden ladle to prevent burning.
• Setting: Once ready, the mixture is poured into a vessel greased with ghee, flattened with banana leaves, and allowed to cool before being cut into thin slices.

Unique Characteristics

• Method of Preparation: Constant stirring during the cooking process is crucial to avoid burning.
• Cultural Significance: Traditionally prepared by Christian households during Christmas for 'consoada' (confectioneries sent to relatives and neighbors). Dodol has become an integral part of Goa’s multi-cultural culinary history.

History and Significance in Goa

Historical Origins

• Disputed Origins:
• Some scholars suggest it was served in royal banquets in the Medang Kingdom of Indonesia between the 8th and 11th centuries.
• Another variation likely originated in early 20th century Indonesia under Dutch colonial rule.
• Introduction in Goa: Believed to have been introduced during Portuguese rule in the 17th century.

Cultural Importance

• Goan Beliefs:
• A common belief among Goan households is that a Catholic woman must take back Dodol and bananas as “voje” (gift) when she returns to her husband’s house after the birth of her first child.
• Traditionally prepared in a big cauldron named ‘kail’, which is part of the dowry and must be returned with Dodol as a form of gratitude if borrowed.

Variations and Popularity

• Other Regions: Dodol and its variations are also popular in southern India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and parts of Southeast Asia.

Benefits of a GI Tag

Protection and Recognition

• Geographical Indication: A GI tag signifies products originating from a specific region, indicating unique characteristics and qualities.
• Trademark: Acts as a trademark in the international market, protecting creators from impersonation and helping customers identify authentic items.

Standardization and Quality Assurance

• Standardization: The GI tag will help standardize traditional methods, practices, and quality to ensure the authenticity of Dodol.
• Quality Control: Bakers and traders would need to register to get the GI stamp on the packaging to sell the sweet.

Cultural and Economic Impact

• Safeguarding Cultural Identity: Protects the cultural identity of Dodol, ensuring that traditional methods and recipes are preserved.
• Promotion and Export Potential: Helps in popularizing Dodol and may facilitate exports in the long run, boosting the local economy.

Conclusion

• The application for a GI tag for Dodol represents a significant step in preserving and promoting this traditional Goan sweet.
• By securing a GI tag, the authenticity and cultural heritage of Dodol can be protected, ensuring its legacy for future generations and potentially enhancing its market reach both domestically and internationally.

SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS