The monsoon season in Odisha brings with it a delightful array of traditional dishes that are perfect for enjoying the rainy weather. Here are some must-try Odia delicacies to savour during the monsoon:
Bara
Bara is a beloved snack in Odisha, prepared by soaking urad dal overnight, grinding it into a batter, mixing it with spices, and frying it to perfection. This savoury treat is a staple in Odia households and a popular street food, especially enjoyed during the monsoon season.
Kakara Pitha
Kakara Pitha is a traditional sweet delicacy from Odisha, made from rice flour and jaggery, then deep-fried to a crisp. The sweet flavour of jaggery combined with the crispy texture of the pitha makes it a favourite among both children and adults, particularly during the rainy season.
Kakharu Phula Bhaja
Pumpkin flower fritters, known as Kakharu Phula Bhaja, are a crunchy and flavorful treat. The pumpkin flowers are dipped in a gram flour batter and deep-fried until golden brown. These fritters make for a perfect snack with a cup of tea during a rainy evening.
Manda Pitha
A popular steamed sweet dish, Manda Pitha is made from rice flour dough stuffed with a filling of coconut, jaggery, and cardamom. These dumplings are often prepared during festivals but are also a comforting snack to enjoy during the monsoon.
Dahibara Aloodum
A beloved street food, Dahibara Aloodum consists of soft lentil dumplings soaked in seasoned yogurt, served with spicy potato curry and garnished with sev and chopped onions. This tangy and spicy combination is a monsoon favourite in Odisha.
Mudhi Mansa
A unique dish that combines puffed rice (mudhi) with spicy mutton curry (mansa), Mudhi Mansa is a popular delicacy in northern Odisha. The crunchy puffed rice complements the rich and spicy mutton curry, making it a delightful combination to enjoy during the monsoon.