Discover the Flavors of Odisha: 9 Must-Try Vegetarian Dishes

A Culinary Journey Through Odisha

Odisha is celebrated not just for its stunning temples and rich cultural heritage, but also for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. The unique blend of spices and traditional cooking techniques sets Odia food apart. If you're considering a visit to Odisha, make sure to sample these nine iconic vegetarian dishes.

Pakhala Bhata

Regarded as the quintessential dish of Odisha, Pakhala Bhata is especially favored during the hot summer months. This dish features cooked rice that is soaked in water and lightly fermented, often accompanied by roasted vegetables, badi chura (crushed lentil fritters), and green chilies, making it a refreshing choice.

Dalma

A beloved staple in Odia households, Dalma is a wholesome dish made from pigeon peas (arhar dal) and a variety of vegetables such as raw papaya, eggplant, pumpkin, and sweet potato. The addition of panch phoran (a five-spice mix) and grated coconut elevates its taste, and it is typically enjoyed with rice.

Chhena Poda

Often referred to as Odisha's version of cheesecake, Chhena Poda is crafted from a blend of chhena (cottage cheese), sugar, and semolina, which is then slow-cooked until the top becomes golden and crispy. Its rich flavor is sure to delight anyone who tries it.

Dahi Bara Aloo Dum

This popular street food from Cuttack is well-known across the state. It features soft dahi baras (lentil fritters soaked in yogurt) paired with spicy aloo dum (potato curry) and ghugni (chickpea curry), garnished with finely chopped onions, coriander, and sev (crispy chickpea flour noodles), creating a deliciously tangy and spicy experience.

Ghanta

'Ghanta' is a nutritious mixed vegetable dish that includes ingredients like pumpkin, potatoes, raw bananas, and sprouted grains. This dish is often prepared during festivals and is packed with health benefits.

Badi Chura

A crispy accompaniment, Badi Chura consists of sun-dried urad dal fritters that are roasted and crushed, then combined with chopped onions, garlic, green chilies, and mustard oil. It is commonly served alongside Pakhala Bhat (fermented rice).

Chenna Gaja

Chenna Gaja is a delightful sweet treat from Odisha, made by deep-frying a mixture of chenna (cottage cheese) and semolina, which is then soaked in sugar syrup. It has a firm exterior and a juicy interior, making it a must-try.

Santula

For those who prefer simpler fare, Santula is an excellent choice. This dish consists of boiled vegetables prepared with minimal oil and spices, featuring raw papaya, eggplant, and beans as the main components. It can be made with or without milk.

Rasgulla

The mere mention of Odisha's Rasgulla is enough to make anyone's mouth water. Tied to the traditions of the Jagannath Temple, this version of rasgulla is known for its brownish hue and melt-in-your-mouth texture, setting it apart from the sweeter Bengali variant.