Winter in Odisha brings a delightful array of dishes perfect for warming you up during the chilly months. From sweet treats to hearty soups, here are seven Odia winter delicacies you must try.
Enduri Pitha: A beloved winter treat, enduri pitha is made from rice and urad dal batter, stuffed with a coconut and jaggery filling, and steamed in turmeric leaves. It is known for its unique aroma and flavour.
Manda Pitha: Prepared during Margashira, Manda Pitha is a soft rice dough filled with jaggery, coconut, and chhena. The subtle sweetness makes it a comforting winter snack, often enjoyed on Thursdays.
Makara Chaula: A special dish for Makara Sankranti, makara chaula combines fresh rice, milk, sugarcane, jaggery, bananas, and coconut. Flavoured with ginger, cardamom, and pepper, it celebrates Odisha’s winter harvest.
Khira Gaintha: This creamy dessert is made with rice flour dumplings simmered in milk and flavoured with jaggery and cardamom.
Dhanu Muan: A crunchy, sweet treat enjoyed during Dhanu Sankranti, dhanu muan is made with puffed rice, jaggery, coconut, and spices like cardamom and black pepper.
Kanji: A tangy, nourishing soup made from fermented rice water and seasonal vegetables, kanji is packed with probiotics and supports digestion during the winter.