MANJALI NAIK
PONDA: In a world dominated by fast food and instant mixes, there are still a few who believe in the magic of slow-cooked, hand-ground, and lovingly prepared meals. In the heart of Ponda, Goa, one such culinary artist, Pratima Khandeparkar, is keeping the soul of Goan cooking alive. Her food is more than just delicious—it’s tradition, nostalgia, and the kind of warmth only home-cooked meals can bring.
Long before her name was known among food lovers and caterers, Pratima spent her days cooking in a school kitchen. She wasn’t a chef in a grand restaurant, but the satisfaction of preparing meals that nourished and comforted others was enough for her. Her hands moved with experience, her spices blended with instinct, and every dish carried the unmistakable essence of home.
But life had other plans. When health issues forced her to leave her job, it seemed she would have to set aside her passion for cooking. Yet some flames never die. Instead of stepping away from the kitchen, she turned it into her own little empire—one where every dish is made with heart, heritage, and
an irreplaceable touch of
authenticity.
What makes Pratima’s cooking so special? It’s not just the recipes—it’s the way she treats each dish as an art form. Her Gavti masala, a blend of freshly ground spices, has become a staple in many Goan households, and even local caterers swear by its rich, aromatic flavour.
Then there’s her Puran Poli, a delicacy that stirs memories of childhood—soft, golden flatbreads filled with sweet lentil stuffing, each bite brimming with comfort and joy.
Seafood lovers crave her Reachdo Bangda, a fiery and tangy mackerel preparation marinated in her signature recheado masala. Her prawns curry, lush with coconut and perfectly balanced spices, reflects a depth that only years of experience can bring. And for those who enjoy Goan non-vegetarian favourites, her Chicken Xacuti, slow-cooked with roasted coconut, poppy seeds, and a complex spice blend, is nothing short of a masterpiece.
One of her most unique offerings is Bharleli Tora, a traditional Goan pickle made from raw mangoes stuffed with a special masala. This tangy, spicy, and flavour-packed delicacy is a summer favourite among those who appreciate handmade pickles that preserve age-old traditions.
For Pratima, food is more than a business—it’s a passion, a tradition, and a gift she offers to the world. Despite the challenges life threw her way, she found a way to keep doing what she loves. Her story proves that real success isn’t measured in wealth, but in the number of lives you touch.
Her name has become synonymous with authentic Goan flavours. Her masalas have found their way into countless homes, and her food continues to bring people together. From a humble kitchen in Ponda to the hearts of many, Pratima Khandeparkar has done more than just cook—she has preserved the soul of Goan cuisine, ensuring its legacy lives on for generations to come.