Soumayashree Mishra 
Odia cuisine, also known as Odishi cuisine, is the traditional cuisine of the Indian state of Odisha. The cuisine is a rich blend of flavors, spices, and textures, with a focus on vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Here are the top 5 Odia cuisines that you must try:
Pakahala: Pakhala is a popular dish of Odisha and is usually eaten during the summer season. It is made with cooked rice, curd, water, and salt. The dish is served with different side dishes like fried fish, vegetable curry, or any non-vegetarian curry. Pakhala is a refreshing dish that helps in beating the heat.
Dalma: Dalma is a vegetarian dish that is prepared with lentils and vegetables. It is a staple dish in Odisha and is usually served with rice. The lentils and vegetables are cooked together with spices, and the dish is seasoned with mustard oil, cumin seeds, and red chili.
Macha Ghanta: Macha Ghanta is a popular fish curry in Odisha. The dish is prepared with different types of fish and vegetables like pumpkin, brinjal, drumsticks, etc. The fish is marinated with turmeric, salt, and red chili powder and then cooked with the vegetables in a spicy tomato-based gravy.
Chhena Poda: Chhena Poda is a traditional dessert of Odisha. It is made with fresh paneer (cottage cheese), sugar, and cardamom. The paneer is mixed with sugar and cardamom and then baked in a clay oven until it turns golden brown. The dessert is soft, spongy, and has a caramelized texture.
Rasgulla: Rasgulla is a famous sweet dish that originated in Odisha. It is made with chhena (cottage cheese) and sugar syrup. The chhena is kneaded and shaped into small balls and then boiled in sugar syrup until they become soft and spongy. The dish is popular in different parts of India and is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Pitha: Pitha is a type of sweet or savory dumpling that is made with rice flour or wheat flour. The dumplings are steamed, boiled, or fried and are usually filled with coconut, jaggery, or dal. Pitha is a popular dish that is usually made during festivals like Makar Sankranti.
Khaja: Khaja is a crispy and flaky dessert that is made with flour, ghee, sugar, and water. The dough is rolled, cut into small pieces, and deep-fried until golden brown. It is then dipped in sugar syrup and left to cool. Khaja is a popular dessert that is usually served during festivals and special occasions.
Odia cuisine is a flavorful blend of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes that are cooked with a variety of spices and flavors. The state of Odisha is famous for its unique cuisine, and the above-mentioned dishes are some of the must-try cuisines when you visit Odisha.
