Celebrate Independence Day with the rich flavours of Odisha! Here are some traditional dishes to enjoy:
Kanika: A fragrant, sweetened rice dish made with basmati rice, ghee, sugar, & aromatic spices like cardamom & cloves. Often garnished with raisins & cashews, Kanika is traditionally prepared during festivals and special occasions.
Khichdi: Made with rice and lentils cooked together with ghee & a blend of spices. The dish is simple yet flavorful, & it’s typically served with a side of vegetables or curd. Odisha's Khichdi stands out for its rich texture and the use of ghee, which gives it a distinctive taste.
Mutton Jhola: Mutton Jhola is a spicy and aromatic curry that’s a staple in many Odia households. The mutton is slow-cooked in a blend of spices like turmeric, red chilli, and garam masala, along with a base of onions, ginger, and garlic. The curry has a thin consistency and is often served with steamed rice or rotis. It’s a hearty dish, perfect for a special meal.
Machha Bhaja: Machha Bhaja refers to fried fish, a popular delicacy in Odisha. Fresh fish is marinated in turmeric, chili powder, & salt before being shallow-fried in mustard oil until crispy & golden brown.
Dahi Baigana: Dahi Baigana is a simple yet delicious dish made from brinjal (eggplant) and yoghurt. The eggplant is first fried and then mixed with a tempered yoghurt sauce that includes mustard seeds, curry leaves, & green chillies.
Pitha: Pitha is a broad term that refers to various types of traditional Odia cakes or pancakes, typically made from rice flour or lentil flour. They can be sweet or savoury and are often filled with ingredients like jaggery, coconut, or chhena. Pithas are an essential part of Odia festivals and celebrations.
Rasabali: A traditional sweet dish from Odisha, made from deep-fried cheese patties soaked in thickened, sweetened milk. Flavoured with cardamom, this dish has a rich & creamy texture, making it a popular dessert during festivals & special occasions.
Chhena Poda: Chhena Poda, meaning "burnt cheese" in Odia, is a unique dessert made from fresh cottage cheese (chhena), sugar, & semolina, baked until it achieves a caramelized crust. It’s one of Odisha’s most famous sweets and is enjoyed by people across the state, especially during festive times.