Healthy Foods from Orissa: Traditional Recipes and Easy Preparation Tips

Orissa, also known as Odisha, is a state in Eastern India known for its rich culture and diverse cuisine. The food of Orissa is simple yet delicious, made with locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The cuisine is characterized by its lightness and subtle flavors, with a generous use of rice, lentils, and vegetables. Here, we will explore some of the healthy foods from Orissa, their traditional recipes, and easy preparation tips for those who live outside Orissa.

1. Dalma

Dalma is a nutritious and comforting dish made with lentils and vegetables. It is a staple food in Orissa and is often served with rice.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Toor Dal
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (pumpkin, papaya, brinjal, etc.)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 dry red chilies
• 2 tablespoons grated coconut
• Salt to taste

Preparation:

Boil the dal and vegetables with turmeric and salt until cooked. In a separate pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds and red chilies. Once they splutter, add the cooked dal and vegetables. Mix well and garnish with grated coconut. Serve hot with rice.

2. Pakhala Bhata

Pakhala Bhata is a traditional Odia dish made with fermented rice. It is a probiotic food that aids digestion and is perfect for hot summer days.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked rice
• 2 cups water
• Salt to taste
• 1 green chili, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Preparation:

Soak the cooked rice in water overnight. The next day, strain the water into a separate bowl. This water is the Pakhala. Add salt, green chili, and lemon juice to the Pakhala and mix well. Serve chilled with boiled potatoes or fried fish.

3. Chhena Poda

Chhena Poda is a popular dessert in Orissa. It is made with cottage cheese, sugar, and cardamom and is baked until it gets a caramelized exterior.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Chhena (cottage cheese)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 2 tablespoons ghee

Preparation:

Mix the Chhena, sugar, and cardamom powder together. Grease a baking tray with ghee and pour the mixture into it. Bake at 180 degrees Celsius for about 30 minutes or until the top turns brown. Let it cool before serving.

These are just a few examples of the healthy and delicious foods from Orissa. The cuisine is diverse and offers a variety of dishes to suit every palate. So, try these recipes and enjoy a taste of Orissa in your own home.