The states on the lush western coast of India have their own unique culinary styles that though different from the rest of the country, share a lot in common.

From Malvani and Malabari to Mangalorean and Goan, the flavors are rich and often fiery! Red chillies, fresh and dried coconut and a variety of spices from cumin to pepper, figure in all of them. Fish and seafood is very, very popular, but so are beef (among non-Hindus) and pork (among the non-Muslim communities).

Rice is the staple food of choice in these areas with "fat rice" - the affectionate nickname for a thicker grained variety of rice - being the best loved and served with almost everything.

Bring some coastal Indian flavor to your home with these delicious foods:

• Beef Sukka (pictured above right)
• Pork Vindaloo
• Fish Xacuti
• Prawns Rava Fry and
• Prawn Ghassi

_{Image © 2008 Petrina Verma Sarkar licensed to About.com}

Related:
The Cuisine of Western India | Top Goan Recipes