In the heart of Old Goa, where time seems to linger among baroque façades and ancient stones, the Museum of Christian Art (MoCA), in collaboration with The Goan Kitchen is hosting a one-of-a-kind culinary and cultural journey at the historic Convent of Santa Monica.
Block out May 9, and reserve a place to learn how to make the much-loved and famed dessert of Goa—bebinca—at the very site, where according to cherished oral tradition it was first created.
The idea of hosting a bebinca-making workshop at MoCA stemmed from a desire to celebrate Goa’s rich culinary heritage through a multisensory experience that blends legend, tradition, and skill.
"By collaborating with The Goan Kitchen and anchoring the workshop in historical context, we wanted to offer participants a deeper connection to a beloved tradition and its storied past," says Benjamin Monserrate Fernandes, Curatorial Associate and Educator at MoCA.
He adds, "Hosting the workshop at the Convent of Santa Monica is both, symbolic and deeply meaningful as bebinca was first created here. To return this culinary art to its place of origin is to honour the spirit of invention, community, and faith that defines the convent’s history."
Oliver Fernandes, Co-founder of The Goan Kitchen says he is honoured to be collaborating this workshop. He mentions, "There cannot be another surreal experience than seeing bebinca being made at the Santa Monica Convent. The legend outlives us!"
There cannot be another surreal experience than seeing bebinca being made at the Santa Monica Convent. The legend outlives us
Oliver Fernandes, Co-founder of The Goan Kitchen
He adds that the team at MoCA have consistently been doing outstanding work over the years, but introducing a new dimension of culinary experiences deeply rooted in Goa’s culture is truly brilliant.
Legend has it that the Bebinca was first created centuries ago at the Convent of Santa Monica by a nun named Sister Bebiana. With leftover egg yolks that were in aplenty after the egg whites were used to starch the nuns’ habits she was determined to put it to good use.
Using local ingredients was a must and so with coconut milk and ghee, she developed a delicately layered pudding that came to be known as bebinca. The dessert was named after her and has eventually became a well-loved part of Goan cuisine and culture.
Now, you’re invited to step back into this layered history. On Friday, May 9, at this immersive experience participants will learn the intricate, step-by-step art of making the eight-layered bebinca under the guidance of expert chefs from The Goan Kitchen.
For MoCA, experiences like this one help foster a deeper appreciation for the cultural layers that define Goa’s heritage, and show how tradition is preserved, shared, and kept alive through active participation.
What makes this experience even more interesting is that it will also feature a specially curated guided tour through the 17th-century Convent of Santa Monica.
Led by knowledgeable museum facilitators, the walk offers intimate glimpses into the convent’s monumental architecture, serene cloisters, and vividly restored murals — each corner echoing stories of faith, resilience, and creativity.
This is is certainly more than a culinary class. It’s a celebration of heritage, a tribute to timeless craft, and a chance to savour the soul of Goa, one warm layer at a time.
DETAILS:
DATE: May 9, Friday
TIME: 4.30 pm onwards
REGISTRATION FEE: Rs 2,500 per person
VENUE: Convent of Santa Monica, Old Goa
FOR REGISTRATION, MESSAGE ON WHATSAPP: 8308805399