Odisha, the land of Lord Jagannath is home to some of the most delicious authentic dishes that attract many food lovers to the state. Let's check these top 10 authentic Odia dishes that are synonymous with the identity of Odisha.
Pakhala Bhata: The soul food of Odisha is made with fermented rice and flavoured with curd, green mango-infused water, and tempered with mustard, onion, and chillies. It’s best served with fried fish or shrimp, papad, and curries.
Chhena Poda: Made with cottage cheese or chhena which is baked until golden brown with a fragrance of cardamom, this sweet dessert is of heavenly taste and a must-try.
Dalma: Another soul food of Odisha made with lentils and vegetables, this delicious and nutritious dish is mainly served with rice.
Dahi vada-Aloo dum: Quite popular as 'Vada Pav' of Cuttack, Dahi vada-Aloo dum is every Odia’s favourite and is seen at every roadside food stall.
Rasabali: Served to Lord Jagannath at Puri temple as a part of chappana bhogas, this soft cottage sweet dish is served with the aromas of cardamom and flavoured milk.
Kanika: Kanika, a traditional sweet rice dish which is served in Lord Jagannath’s temple as one of the Chappan Bhog dishes.
Mudhi Mansa: Tracing its origin to the Baripada district in Mayurbhanj, Mudhi Mansa is a classic traditional dish that consists of puffed rice with meat curry.
Poda Pitha: This delicious sweet dish is prepared with rice flour, jaggery, fennel seeds, and water, and a must-try Odia authentic food.
Saga Badi Bhaja: Another authentic Odia dish packed with nutrients and taste, Saga Badi Bhaja is prepared with badi chura (coarse paste of urad dal, first sundried and then powdered) and green leafy vegetables like Amaranth leaves.
Chakuli Pitha: Quite similar to dosa, Chakuli is prepared from rice and urad dal batter and is served with matar curry, coconut chutney, or jaggery.