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As the crescent moon graces the sky, heralding the arrival of Eid in Odisha on March 31 (most likely), the air is filled with joy, prayers, and, most importantly, the tantalizing aroma of festive delicacies.
Eid is a time of celebration, togetherness, and, of course, feasting on traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations. To mark familial bond, friendship, and brotherhood, here is something special to relish.
This year, as families and friends gather to mark the occasion, three special culinary delights take center stage: Seviyan, Shahi Tukda, and the distinctive Cuttacki Biryani. Each dish carries its own story, flavour, and cultural essence, making Eid an unmissable gastronomic experience.
Seviyan: The Quintessential Eid Dessert
No Eid feast is complete without a steaming bowl of Seviyan, a comforting and celebratory dessert made from fine roasted vermicelli, slow-cooked in rich, cardamom-infused milk.
Enhanced with the goodness of saffron and sugar and garnished with toasted almonds, cashews, and pistachios, Seviyan exudes nostalgia and festivity.
Whether served warm or chilled, its silky texture and fragrant sweetness make it a household favourite during celebrations.
Shahi Tukda: A Royal Treat
For those who crave an opulent, melt-in-the-mouth dessert, Shahi Tukda is the ultimate indulgence.
A hallmark cuisine, this royal dish features deep-fried bread slices soaked in thickened milk (rabri) and enriched with saffron, cardamom, and slivers of nuts.
Some versions are further adorned with edible silver leaf, adding an extra touch of grandeur. The contrast of crispy fried bread and creamy rabri ensures an unforgettable experience with every bite.
Cuttacki Biryani: Odisha’s Hidden Gem
While biryani is a staple of Eid feasts across India, Cuttacki Biryani—also known as Kataki Biryani—stands apart with its unique blend of flavors and preparation techniques.
This lesser-known yet highly cherished variant originates from the historic lanes of Cuttack, particularly from the famous Khatbin Sahi, where the legendary Dilbar Khan, fondly called Tikki Mian, perfected the art of biryani-making.
Unlike Kolkata Biryani, which is infused with fragrant potatoes, or Hyderabadi Biryani, known for its robust and spicy undertones, Cuttacki Biryani boasts a balance of rich, aromatic spices with a distinct sweetness derived from gulkand (rose petal preserve).
It is also markedly different from the Muradabadi Biryani of Delhi, which is lighter in spices and often broth-based. Cuttacki Biryani is all about bold flavors and the perfect ‘miqdar’—or balance—of masalas, ensuring each bite is a delight.
What truly sets Cuttacki Biryani apart is its preparation method, having thorough marination, ensuring deep infusion of flavours.
Additionally, unlike the dum method used in Lucknow or Hyderabad, Cuttacki Biryani is prepared in a unique layered style, where slow cooking leads to a more unified taste profile.
The generous use of kewra water and saffron gives it an irresistible aroma, making it a must-have during Eid celebrations.
Note: Buxi Bazar, YMCA Road, College Square, Sheikh Bazar, CDA Sector-6, and Khatbin Sahi are popular places to feast on Kataki biryani.
A Feast to Remember
Eid in Odisha is more than just a festival; it’s an experience, a celebration of love, tradition, and culinary excellence.
As families gather around tables laden with festive dishes, from the creamy delight of Seviyan to the indulgent sweetness of Shahi Tukda and the incomparable depth of Cuttacki Biryani, this Eid promises to be a true feast for the senses.
