The difference between cake & brownie is like the difference between Bengali and Odia cuisines. We have tasted both non-vegetarian and vegetarian Bengali food extensively. While Bengali food rocks in Kolkata, there are many Bengali food options in Delhi as well. When we tried Food Of Odisha, we could see the similarities. The focus on sweets, extensive use of rice, and fish as protein, using coconut as part of cooking – these attributes bound the culinary practices of Bengal and Odisha.

Food in Odisha

Yet, Odisha food is very different. The seasonings, tempering, and the overall taste of Odisha food which is rich in vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian traditions, bowled us over. Odisha food traditions date back thousands of eras and the temple offerings are described in ancient scriptures. Jagannath and other temples and festival culinary practices are strictly followed unchanged since then.

Pin it for later Read

The largest festival in Puri, Odisha is Rathyatra. Lakhs of devotees, pilgrims, tourists, and curious travellers land here in that season. The festival celebrated in the month of Ashadh of the Hindu calendar, which is anytime between mid-June and early July, is a huge spectacle. We were in Puri recently and visited at least 10 centuries old Jagannath Temple here. The surrounding area is all about food joints some dating back over a century. So if you are in Odisha for Rathyatra or just the beaches of Puri, here is some decoding Odisha specialities for you. The Odisha food trail would not only take you back over centuries but also salivate you for more. Forget the beaches, you might want to travel to Odisha for the unique Odia food items.

Some Unique Food Items in Odisha

Below are some must-try food items of Odisha that might take us there again.

Jagannath Mandir Bhog

Jagannath Mandir in Puri is famous for its delicious food offerings, known as Mahaprasad. This temple food is an important part of Odisha’s culture. The food is cooked in the temple kitchen, which is one of the largest kitchens in the world. The kitchen has 752 chulas or clay stoves, where several different types of food are prepared every day. The food includes savoury and sweet snacks, rice, dal, vegetables, desserts, and more.

Trip to Jagannath Temple in Puri-Odisha

It is all cooked in earthen pots using traditional methods, and it is offered to Lord Jagannath before being served to devotees. The Mahaprasad is not just food; it is considered very sacred. People believe that eating it brings blessings from the gods. But where can you get Mahaprasad Bhog of Jagannath Mandir? The Prasad is sold at Ananda Bazar inside the temple complex. The charge depends on the quantity and the items you select. Pilgrims carry back home Khaja Bhog and Nirmalaya, a dried rice bhog for sharing with friends and family.

Chhena Poda

India’s answer to cheesecake has to be Chhena Poda from Odisha. Chhena Poda, which translates to “smoked cheese” is made from fresh cottage cheese, sugar, and a hint of semolina. It is baked until it develops a beautiful caramelized crust. Often described as a smoked cheesecake, this dessert offers a delightful balance of flavours with its rich, creamy texture that melts in the mouth. The distinct smokiness adds a depth of flavour that sets it apart from other sweets. Traditionally prepared during festivals and special occasions, Chhena Poda has become a beloved dessert for both locals and visitors alike.

It’s not just the taste that makes it special, but also the rustic preparation method, which involves baking the cheese mixture over a slow fire or in an oven, allowing it to acquire that perfect, slightly charred exterior. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, Chhena Poda is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Odisha and is a must-try for anyone with a fondness for desserts. Every bite of this delightful cake is a reminder of the simplicity and elegance of Odia cuisine.

Kora Khoi – Lingaraj Temple

Kora Khoi, also known as Khai, is a beloved Prasad, or divine food offering, at the famous Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. This delightful treat is made from a simple yet flavourful combination of puffed paddy (known as Khoi), coconut, jaggery, cardamom, and black pepper. These ingredients come together to create a crunchy mixture that is slightly sticky, offering a unique blend of sweet and spicy tastes that is truly unforgettable. The coconut adds a rich texture, while the jaggery imparts deep sweetness. The cardamom and black pepper provide a surprising hint of spice, making every bite a delightful experience.

While many regions in India have their own variations of rice-based snacks, the Kora Khoi of Odisha stands out for its distinctive taste and cultural significance. It is more than just a snack; it is a cherished part of the temple rituals and a symbol of the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Dahi Vada Aloor Dum of Odisha

If you love spicy food, you must try the Dahi Vada Aloo Dum combo, a unique and popular dish from Odisha. This exciting combination brings together the cool and creamy Dahi Vada (lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt) with the hot and spicy Aloo Dum (spiced potato curry) garnished with grated onion, coriander, and a hot seasoning powder. The soft Dahi Vada, with its mild yogurt flavor, perfectly balances the fiery kick of the Aloo Dum, creating a sensational taste experience that feels like a dance party in your mouth. The yogurt cools your palate while the spices in the Aloo Dum add a zesty punch.

This dish is often enjoyed as a snack or a light meal and is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Found at street food stalls and local eateries across Odisha, Dahi Vada Aloo Dum showcases the state’s love for combining contrasting flavours to create something that surprises the taste buds.

Khaja from Puri

One of our absolute favourites in Puri is the deep-fried, crispy, layered pastry called Khaja. This delectable treat is highly addictive and a popular souvenir. Once our friends and family heard about our trip to Puri, they quickly requested Khaja. Consequently, we filled an entire duffel bag with boxes of this delightful pastry.

Khaja is beloved by many, with nearly everyone having a preferred supplier. You can find numerous shops selling Khaja in the narrow lanes around the Jagannath Temple. We highly recommend sampling a few before buying to ensure you get the best. The variety and subtle differences between each vendor’s Khaja make the tasting experience truly enjoyable.

Fish Fried on the Beach

To complete the beach experience, you can try the fried fish at Puri Beach. The fresh catch here includes many varieties such as pomfret, pabda, rohu, prawns, small mourola, and crabs. You can buy the fish of your choice and the fishmonger has arrangements to fry it for you. You can have the fish deep fried in mustard oil or they have a ready spiced and seasoned besan paste that is smeared on the fish and fried. The taste of freshly fried fish, that has not been refrigerated, is delectable.

Word of caution though. Please be sure that the fish you are having does not cause of allergies. Many varieties of seafood do not agree with people and experiments here can lead to fatal consequences.

Our food trail through Odisha revealed a rich array of flavours and customs. From the revered Mahaprasad Bhog at Jagannath Temple to the beloved Chhena Poda dessert, each dish reflected heritage and practices that have been passed down through generations.

Don’t forget to try Kora Khoi from Lingaraj Temple and the palatable Dahi Vada Aloo Dum combo. And a visit to Puri isn’t complete without indulging in Khaja pastry and freshly fried beach fish. Remember to stay mindful of allergies and food safety.

Odisha’s cuisine blends tradition, innovation, and distinct flavours, promising an unforgettable experience for all. Come, taste the essence of Odisha, and create lasting memories with every bite.