Odisha, located on the east coast of India, has a rich and diverse culinary culture. The food culture of Odisha is heavily influenced by its geography, climate, and history.

One of the key features of Odisha’s food culture is its emphasis on vegetarian cuisine. Many of the traditional dishes of Odisha are vegetarian and are made with locally available ingredients like rice, lentils, vegetables, and spices.

Rice is the staple food of Odisha and is a common ingredient in many dishes. Some of the popular rice-based dishes include khichdi, chakuli, and pakhala. Pakhala is a fermented rice dish that is usually eaten with a variety of accompaniments like fish, vegetables, and curries.

The coastal location of Odisha has also had a significant influence on its food culture. Seafood is a popular ingredient in many dishes, with fish curries like machha besara and prawn malai curry being some of the most famous.

Another key aspect of Odisha’s food culture is its emphasis on sweets and desserts. Rasagola, a popular sweet made of cottage cheese, is an iconic dish of Odisha and has gained worldwide recognition. Other famous sweets include chhena poda, chhena gaja, and rasabali.

Odisha also has a rich street food culture, with dishes like dahi bara aloo dum and gupchup (pani puri) being popular among locals and tourists alike.

Overall, Odisha’s food culture is a reflection of its rich history and diverse geography. It is a fusion of traditional and modern influences and offers a unique culinary experience to anyone who visits the state.

Must 25 food of Odisha – good health Test of Odish

Table of Contents

Pakhala – a fermented rice dish served with different accompaniments
Chhena Poda – a sweet made of cottage cheese
Rasagola – a sweet made of cottage cheese soaked in sugar syrup
Chhena Gaja – a deep-fried sweet made of cottage cheese
Rasabali – a sweet made of flattened rice and cottage cheese
Dalma – a vegetarian dish made of lentils, vegetables, and spices
Machha Besara – a fish curry made with mustard paste and vegetables
Prawn Malai Curry – a creamy prawn curry made with coconut milk
Santula – a mixed vegetable dish
Baigana Podha Chakta – a dish made of roasted eggplant and spices
Khicede – a dish made of rice and lentils
Dahi Bara Aloo Dum – a popular street food made of lentil fritters, potato curry, and yogurt
Gupchup – a type of pani puri with a unique Odia twist
Aloo Potala Rasa – a curry made of potato and pointed gourd
Chingudi Besara – a prawn curry made with mustard paste and coconut
Chakuli Pitha – a type of rice pancake
Kheeri – a rice pudding
Mathura Peda – a sweet made of milk and sugar
Bara – a savory snack made of lentils
Badi Chura – a dish made of sun-dried lentil dumplings and spices
Arisa Pitha – a sweet made of rice flour and jaggery
Mutton Curry – a spicy meat curry
Chicken Curry – a spicy chicken curry
Bamboo Shoot Curry – a vegetarian curry made of bamboo shoots and spices
Crab Curry– a spicy curry made with crab meat

These dishes are just a few examples of the diverse and delicious cuisine that Odisha has to offer.

1. Pakhala, food of Odisha

Pakhala is a traditional Odia dish made of fermented rice that is widely popular in the state. It is essentially leftover cooked rice that hasbeen soaked in water and allowed to ferment overnight. The next day, the rice is typically served with different accompaniments, depending on personal preferences.

Pakhala is a staple food of Odisha, and it is commonly consumed during the hot summer months, as it is known to have cooling properties. The dish is also considered to be a comfort food, and it is often associated with memories of childhood and home.

There are different ways of preparing pakhala, and it can be served in various forms. Some of the popular variations of pakhala include dahi pakhala (with yogurt), badi chura pakhala (with sun-dried lentil dumplings), and saga bhaja pakhala (with fried leafy vegetables).

Pakhala is typically served in an earthen pot, and it is often accompanied by different side dishes such as fish fry, roasted vegetables, and curries. It is also commonly served with different chutneys and pickles, which add to the overall flavor of the dish.

Overall, pakhala is an important part of Odia cuisine, and it is cherished by people from all walks of life. It is a humble yet delicious dish that represents the cultural and culinary heritage of Odisha.

2.Chhena Poda, food of Odisha

Chhena poda is a famous sweet dish that originates from the state of Odisha, India. It is a baked dessert that is made using chhena (cottage cheese), sugar, semolina, and cardamom powder. The name “chhena poda” literally translates to “roasted cheese,” which is exactly what this sweet dish is all about.

The dish is prepared by mixing the chhena with sugar, semolina, and cardamom powder, and then baking it in an oven until it is golden brown on the outside and soft and creamy on the inside. The dish has a slightly caramelized flavor and a dense, creamy texture.

Chhena Poda is believed to have originated in the Nayagarh district of Odisha, and it has since become a popular dessert throughout the state and beyond. It is often served during festivals and special occasions, and it is also a popular gift item.

There are different variations of Chhena Poda available, and some people like to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. For example, some variations include adding saffron, cashew nuts, or raisins to the mix, which can add additional texture and flavor to the dish.

Overall, Chhena Poda is a unique and delicious dessert that represents the rich culinary heritage of Odisha. Its distinct flavor and texture make it a must-try for anyone visiting the state, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who tries it.

3.Rasagola,food of Odisha

Rasagola is a popular dessert that originates from the state of Odisha, India. It is a soft, spongy, and sweet ball-shaped dessert that is made from chhena (cottage cheese) and soaked in a syrup made from sugar and water. The name “Rasagola” is derived from the words “rasa” meaning “juice” and “gola” meaning “ball.”

The origins of Rasagola can be traced back to the Jagannath Temple in Puri, where it is believed to have been first made in the 12th century. Over time, the dish gained popularity throughout Odisha and other parts of India, and it is now a beloved dessert that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

To prepare Rasagola, chhena is kneaded and shaped into small balls, which are then boiled in a syrup made from sugar and water. The balls absorb the syrup and become soft and spongy, giving them a unique texture and flavor. Rasagola is typically served cold and is often garnished with saffron, cardamom, or chopped nuts.

Rasagola is an important part of Odia culture, and it is often served during festivals and special occasions, such as weddings and birthdays. It is also a popular street food and is readily available in sweet shops and restaurants throughout the state.

4.Chhena Gaja, food of Odisha

Chhena Gaja is a popular sweet dish that originates from the state of Odisha, India. It is a fried dessert made from chhena (cottage cheese), sugar, and semolina, and is shaped into small rectangular pieces. The name “Chhena Gaja” literally translates to “cottage cheese elephant,” which is a reference to the shape of the dessert.

To prepare Chhena Gaja, chhena, sugar, and semolina are kneaded together to form a smooth dough. The dough is then rolled into small rectangular pieces, which are deep-fried in ghee until they are golden brown on the outside and soft on the inside. The fried pieces are then dipped in a sugar syrup and allowed to soak for several hours, which gives them a sweet and juicy flavor.

Chhena Gaja is a popular dessert in Odisha, and it is often served during festivals and special occasions, such as weddings and religious ceremonies. It is also a popular gift item and is often given to friends and family during festivals.

There are different variations of Chhena Gaja available, and some people like to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. For example, some variations include adding saffron, cardamom, or rose water to the sugar syrup, which can add additional flavor to the dish.

Overall, Chhena Gaja is a delicious and unique dessert that represents the rich culinary heritage of Odisha. Its distinct flavor and texture make it a must-try for anyone visiting the state, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who tries it.

5. Rasabali,food of Odisha

Rasabali is a delectable sweet dish that is popular in the Indian state of Odisha. It is made from deep-fried chhena balls that are soaked in a thickened milk mixture flavored with cardamom and saffron. The chhena balls are flattened before deep-frying, and then soaked in the sweetened milk, allowing them to absorb the rich flavors of the milk. Rasabali has a unique texture that is both soft and spongy, and it is often garnished with chopped nuts or grated coconut. This dessert is a must-try for anyone who loves sweets, and it is often served during special occasions and festivals in Odisha.

6.Dalma,food of Odisha

Dalma is a popular dish from the Indian state of Odisha, known for its unique combination of lentils and vegetables. It is a one-pot meal made by cooking lentils with a variety of vegetables such as raw papaya, pumpkin, brinjal, and tomatoes, along with a range of spices. The dish is flavored with cumin, ginger, and garlic, and tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chilies. The lentils and vegetables are simmered together until they form a thick stew-like consistency, and it is often served with steamed rice. Dalma is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

7.Machha besara,food of Odisha

Machha besara is a traditional fish curry from the eastern Indian state of Odisha. It is a spicy and flavorful dish made with fish (usually Rohu or Katla) that is marinated in turmeric and salt and then cooked in a gravy made from mustard seeds, poppy seeds, and a range of spices. The dish gets its unique flavor from the use of mustard oil, which gives it a pungent and slightly bitter taste. Machha Besara is often served with steamed rice and is a staple dish in the coastal regions of Odisha, where fish is abundant and forms an essential part of the local cuisine.

8.Prawn Malai,food of Odisha

Prawm malai Curry is a popular dish from the coastal regions of Eastern India, especially in the state of Odisha. The dish is made with fresh prawns that are cooked in a rich and creamy coconut milk gravy. The prawns are first marinated in a blend of spices including turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder, and then cooked in the coconut milk along with onions, garlic, and ginger. The dish is finished with a splash of lime juice and garnished with fresh coriander leaves. Prawn Malai Curry is a delicious and aromatic dish that is typically served with steamed rice, and is a must-try for seafood lovers visiting the region.

09.Santula, food of Odisha

Santulais a traditional vegetable dish from the Indian state of Odisha. It is a healthy and nutritious dish made with a variety of seasonal vegetables such as eggplant, pumpkin, beans, tomato, potato, and cauliflower, and flavored with panch phoron, a five-spice blend commonly used in the eastern regions of India. The vegetables are chopped into small pieces and stir-fried with the spice mix and a pinch of turmeric powder, resulting in a delicious and aromatic dish. Santula is a simple yet flavorful dish that is often served as a side dish with steamed rice or as a light meal on its own, and is a staple in the cuisine of Odisha.

10.Baigana Podha Chakta, food of Odisha

Baigana Podha Chaktais a popular dish from the state of Odisha, in eastern India. It is a flavorful eggplant curry that is made by roasting the eggplant and then cooking it with a spicy onion and tomato sauce. The eggplant is first roasted over an open flame until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft and tender. The skin is then peeled off, and the flesh is mashed and mixed with a spicy onion and tomato sauce, which is seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and red chili powder. Baigana Podha Chakta is a delicious and healthy vegetarian dish that is typically served with steamed rice or Indian bread, and is a must-try for anyone visiting the region.

11.Khichede, food of Odisha

Khichede is a popular dish from the Indian state of Odisha, made with rice and lentils. It is a simple yet flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and is a staple in many households. The dish is made by cooking rice and lentils together with a few basic spices such as cumin seeds, turmeric, and ginger. The lentils and rice are cooked until they become soft and creamy, and the dish is finished with a tempering of fried onions, curry leaves, and mustard seeds. Khichede is a nutritious and comforting dish that is often served with a side of pickles, chutney, or yogurt, and is a popular dish during festivals and special occasions in Odisha.

12.Dahi Bara Aloo Dum, food of Odisha

Dahi Bara Aloo Dum is a popular street food dish from the Indian state of Odisha, especially in the capital city of Bhubaneswar. It is a delicious and satisfying dish that is made with two main components – Dahi Bara and Aloo Dum.

Dahi Bara is a savory lentil-based snack that is made by deep-frying balls of ground lentils and then soaking them in a yogurt-based sauce seasoned with spices such as cumin, coriander, and chili powder.

Aloo Dum, on the other hand, is a spicy potato curry that is made with boiled potatoes cooked in a tomato and onion-based gravy, flavored with spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala.

To make Dahi Bara Aloo Dum, the Dahi Bara is served with a generous helping of Aloo Dum on top, along with additional toppings such as chopped onions, coriander leaves, and sev (a crunchy noodle-like snack). The combination of the soft and creamy Dahi Bara with the spicy and flavorful Aloo Dum creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

13.Gupchup,

Gupchup also known as Pani Puri or Golgappa, is a popular street food snack in the Indian state of Odisha. It is a small, round, crispy puri filled with a mixture of mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and spices, and is typically served with a tangy tamarind-based water.

To make Gupchup, the puris are first fried until they become crispy and then filled with the potato and chickpea mixture. The puris are then served with a bowl of tangy tamarind water, which is made by mixing tamarind paste, spices, and water. The puri is then quickly dipped into the water and eaten in one bite, creating a burst of flavors and textures in the mouth.

Gupchup is a popular snack that is loved by people of all ages, and is commonly found on street food stalls and in food markets across Odisha. It is a delicious and refreshing snack that is perfect for a quick bite or as a starter before a meal.

14.Aloo Potala Rasa ,food of Odisha

Aloo Potala Rasa is a flavorful vegetable curry from the Indian state of Odisha. It is made with a combination of potatoes and pointed gourd (also known as parwal or potala), which are cooked in a spicy and tangy gravy made with tomatoes, onions, ginger, and garlic, and flavored with a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric.

To make Aloo Potala Rasa, the potatoes and pointed gourd are first diced and sautéed in oil until they become tender. The spice mix and tomato-onion paste are then added and cooked until the flavors blend together. The dish is typically finished with a squeeze of lime juice and a garnish of fresh coriander leaves.

Aloo Potala Rasa is a comforting and flavorful dish that is commonly served with steamed rice or Indian breads such as roti or paratha. It is a vegetarian dish that is packed with nutrients and is a favorite among locals in Odisha.

15.Chingudi Besara, food of Odisha

Chingudi Besara is a traditional dish from the Indian state of Odisha, which is known for its delectable seafood recipes. This dish is made with prawns (chingudi), which are cooked in a spicy and tangy gravy made with a paste of mustard seeds, poppy seeds, and coconut.

To make Chingudi Besara, the prawns are first cleaned and marinated with turmeric, salt, and chili powder. They are then sautéed with onion, ginger, and garlic until they turn pink. The mustard-poppy seed-coconut paste is then added to the pan along with a few other spices such as cumin, coriander, and red chili powder. The dish is cooked until the flavors blend together and the prawns are fully cooked.

Chingudi Besara is a delicious and flavorful dish that is typically served with steamed rice or roti. The mustard-poppy seed-coconut paste gives the dish a unique flavor that is characteristic of Odia cuisine. It is a must-try for seafood lovers and is a popular dish during festivals and special occasions in Odisha.

16.Chakuli Pitha ,food of Odisha

Chakuli Pitha is a popular snack or breakfast item from the Indian state of Odisha. It is a type of pancake made with a batter of fermented rice and black gram lentils, similar to dosa or idli in other parts of India.

To make Chakuli Pitha, the rice and black gram lentils are soaked overnight, and then ground to a smooth batter. The batter is then fermented for several hours until it becomes slightly tangy and airy. The fermented batter is then cooked on a hot griddle or tawa, in the shape of a pancake.

Chakuli Pitha can be served with a variety of accompaniments, such as a spicy potato curry, coconut chutney, or even sweetened coconut or jaggery. It is a simple and delicious dish that is loved by people of all ages in Odisha, and is commonly found in street food stalls and local eateries.

17.Kheeri,food of Odisha

Kheeri also known as rice pudding, is a sweet and creamy dessert that is popular in many regions of India, including the state of Odisha. It is made by boiling rice with milk, sugar, and spices such as cardamom and saffron until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.

To make Kheeri, rice is first washed and soaked in water for a few hours to soften it. The rice is then cooked with milk, sugar, and spices on low heat until the mixture thickens and the rice becomes tender. The dish is typically garnished with nuts such as almonds, cashews, or pistachios, and sometimes flavored with rose water or kewra essence.

Kheeri is a comforting and delicious dessert that is enjoyed by people of all ages, and is especially popular during festivals and special occasions. It can be served warm or chilled, and is a perfect ending to a spicy meal. Kheeri is a classic dish of Odia cuisine, and its rich and creamy texture is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

18.Mathura Peda ,food of Odisha

Mathura Peda is a popular Indian sweet that originated in the city of Mathura in the northern state of odisha. It is a type of soft and crumbly milk-based fudge that is flavored with cardamom, saffron, and nuts such as pistachios or almonds.

To make Mathura Peda, milk and sugar are cooked together until they thicken and reduce to a solid consistency. The mixture is then flavored with cardamom powder and saffron, and shaped into small, round balls or flattened discs. The pedas are often garnished with chopped nuts or silver leaf before being served.

Mathura Peda is a delicious and indulgent sweet that is popular across India and is often offered as a prasad or offering in temples. It is a labor-intensive sweet that requires careful attention and skill to prepare, and is often made by skilled artisans who have been practicing the craft for generations. Mathura Peda is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth and a love for Indian sweets.

19.Bara, food of Odisha

Bara is a popular snack or breakfast item from the Indian state of Odisha. It is a type of savory pancake made with a batter of ground lentils and spices, and is similar to the South Indian dish of vada or the North Indian dish of dal pakora.

To make Bara, lentils are soaked in water for a few hours and then ground to a coarse paste along with spices such as cumin, coriander, and ginger. The batter is then seasoned with salt and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy.

Bara can be served with a variety of chutneys and accompaniments, such as mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or tomato ketchup. It is a popular street food snack in Odisha and is commonly found in local eateries and food stalls.

Bara is a simple yet delicious dish that is loved by people of all ages, and is a staple breakfast item in many households in Odisha. It is a perfect snack for a rainy day or a lazy evening, and is sure to satisfy any craving for something crunchy and savory

20.Badi Chura,food of Odisha

Badi Chura is a popular side dish from the Indian state of Odisha, made with dried lentil cakes called “badi” that are crushed and mixed with spices and vegetables. It is a simple yet flavorful dish that is often served with rice or roti.

To make Badi Chura, the dried lentil cakes are first soaked in water for a few minutes to soften them. They are then drained and crumbled into small pieces. The crumbled badi is then mixed with finely chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies, coriander leaves, and mustard oil. The mixture is seasoned with salt, turmeric powder, and red chili powder, and is then stirred well until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.

Badi Chura is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual preferences. Some variations include adding grated coconut, ginger, or garlic to the mixture for extra flavor. Badi Chura is a staple dish in many households in Odisha, and is often served during special occasions or festivals.

Overall, Badi Chura is a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to make and packed with flavor. It is a perfect accompaniment to any meal and is sure to please the taste buds of anyone who tries it.

21.Arisa Pitha , food of Odisha

Arisa Pitha is a traditional sweet dish from the Indian state of Odisha, typically made during festivals and special occasions. It is a type of deep-fried sweet pancake made with a batter of rice flour, jaggery or sugar, and fennel seeds.

To make Arisa Pitha, rice flour is mixed with jaggery or sugar, fennel seeds, and a pinch of salt. Warm water is gradually added to the mixture to form a soft dough. The dough is then divided into small portions and rolled out into thin discs. These discs are then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy.

Arisa Pitha is a sweet and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed on its own or with other sweet accompaniments such as sweetened condensed milk, grated coconut, or jaggery syrup. It is a popular dish in Odisha and is often prepared during the festival of Raja and other celebrations.

Overall, Arisa Pitha is a delicious and indulgent sweet that is loved by people of all ages. Its crispy texture and sweet flavor make it a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion.

22.Mutton Curry, food of Odisha

Mutton Curry is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is enjoyed across India, including in the eastern state of Odisha. It is made with tender chunks of mutton (goat meat) that are cooked in a spicy and tangy gravy made with onion, tomato, ginger, garlic, and a blend of Indian spices.

To make Mutton Curry, the mutton is first marinated in a mixture of yogurt, ginger, garlic, and spices for several hours to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. It is then sautéed with onion, tomato, and spices in a pot or pressure cooker until the meat is browned and the onions are caramelized. Water or broth is added to create a gravy, and the curry is simmered until the mutton is cooked through and tender.

Mutton Curry can be served with a variety of accompaniments such as rice, roti, or naan, and is often garnished with fresh coriander leaves or fried onions. It is a staple dish in many households in Odisha, and is also popular in restaurants and food stalls.

Overall, Mutton Curry is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy family meal or a special occasion. Its bold and complex flavors make it a favorite among meat lovers, and its versatility makes it a go-to dish for any occasion.

23.Chicken Curry, food of Odisha

Chicken Curry is a popular dish enjoyed across India, including in the eastern state of Odisha. It is made with tender pieces of chicken cooked in a flavorful gravy made with onion, tomato, ginger, garlic, and a blend of Indian spices.

To make Chicken Curry, the chicken is first marinated in a mixture of yogurt, ginger, garlic, and spices for several hours to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. It is then sautéed with onion, tomato, and spices in a pot or pressure cooker until the chicken is browned and the onions are caramelized. Water or broth is added to create a gravy, and the curry is simmered until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Chicken Curry can be served with a variety of accompaniments such as rice, roti, or naan, and is often garnished with fresh coriander leaves or fried onions. It is a staple dish in many households in Odisha, and is also popular in restaurants and food stalls.

Overall, Chicken Curry is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family meal or a special occasion. Its bold and complex flavors make it a favorite among meat lovers, and its versatility makes it a go-to dish for any occasion.

24.Bamboo Shoot Curry, food of Odisha

Bamboo Shoot Curry also known as ‘Bamboo Shoot Khichdi’, is a popular dish in Odisha that is made with fresh bamboo shoots and a blend of aromatic spices.

To make Bamboo Shoot Curry, the fresh bamboo shoots are first washed and cut into small pieces. The bamboo shoots are then boiled with a pinch of salt until they are soft and tender. In a separate pan, spices like cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and dry red chilies are tempered in oil. Chopped onions and garlic are then added to the pan and cooked until they turn golden brown.

Next, chopped tomatoes and a blend of spices like turmeric powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder are added to the pan and cooked until the tomatoes turn mushy. The boiled bamboo shoots are then added to the pan, along with water, and the curry is simmered until the bamboo shoots are cooked through and the gravy thickens.

Bamboo Shoot Curry can be served with steamed rice or roti and is often garnished with fresh coriander leaves. It has a unique and delicious flavor and is a must-try dish for anyone looking to explore the cuisine of Odisha.

25.Crab Curry, food of Odisha

Crab Curry is a popular seafood dish in Odisha that is made with fresh crabs and a blend of spices. It is a flavorful and spicy dish that is loved by seafood lovers all around.

To make Crab Curry, fresh crabs are first cleaned and washed thoroughly. They are then boiled in a pot of water until they are cooked through. In a separate pan, spices like cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and dry red chilies are roasted and ground to make a spice paste.

Chopped onions, ginger, and garlic are then sautéed in oil until they turn golden brown. The ground spice paste is added to the pan and cooked until the oil starts to separate. Chopped tomatoes, salt, and turmeric powder are added to the pan and cooked until the tomatoes turn mushy.

The boiled crabs are then added to the pan, along with water, and the curry is simmered until the crabs are cooked through and the gravy thickens. Crab Curry can be served with steamed rice or roti and is often garnished with fresh coriander leaves.

Overall, Crab Curry is a delicious and spicy dish that is a must-try for seafood lovers. Its bold flavors and tender crab meat make it a popular dish in Odisha and beyond.

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